Less than two weeks after its Australasian public debut at the Melbourne Motor Show, Kia New Zealand has announced pricing for one of the most eagerly anticipated new model launches of the year - and the marque’s first Ute - the Kia Tasman.

Starting from $52,690 for the TX 4WD Ute (plus on-road costs), the new Kia Tasman is scheduled to go on sale in Kia dealerships around the country from Q3.

Kia New Zealand has also officially confirmed the bodystyle available at launch, plus the powerplant driving the new model.

    “We will be launching with the double-cab wellside variant, a style which is incredibly popular amongst Kiwi ute buyers thanks to its all-round functionality and versatility, whether it’s loaded up for work on the farm or for a weekend getaway,” said Mr McDonald.

“This will be the first of a number of new variants we will introduce over coming months, meaning there will be a Tasman model to suit almost all requirements.

“At the heart of Tasman is a custom tuned 2.2-litre diesel engine which is capable of producing 154kW of power and 440Nm of torque.  This is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission specially honed and tuned for the Tasman, delivering both power and efficiency,” said Mr McDonald.

Further highlights of the new Kia Tasman include impressive offroad capability, all-round durability as well as outstanding practicality.

“Overseas testing of the new Ute has proven it to be an incredibly capable offroad performer,” said Mr McDonald.

“It offers 800mm wading depth across all models in the lineup, a standardised locking differential is also a feature on all variants in the Tasman portfolio as is low-range gearing, whilst the top of the line X-Pro delivers ground clearance of up to 252mm.

“The Tasman has also undergone extensive durability testing, both from a performance and longevity perspective.  It has been subject to tens of thousands of kilometres across a variety of terrain and environments.

“Driver-interaction features of the cabin such as buttons, switchgear and componentry have also been subject to rigorous testing.  Kia is confident that Tasman is robust and ready for action, both inside and out.

“This also applies to its all-round interior practicality, especially from a packaging perspective.  Tasman offers best-in-segment second-row roominess when measures such as second-row headroom and second-row shoulder room are considered, which is further enhanced in the case of X-Line and X-Pro as they feature a sliding and reclining second-row seat.

Additional new model information and specification details relating to the Kia Tasman will be released in coming weeks.

Kia Tasman Double Cab Wellside Ute ($RRP plus on-road costs)