Kia is reportedly planning a major update for its Tasman in 2028, with leaked production documents also pointing to an expansion of the model range.

First reported by The Korean Car Blog (↗), the leaked material identifies Kia’s Hwaseong factory in South Korea as the site for further Tasman development, including product improvements and additional model derivatives. The information is understood to have originated from Kia’s Employment Stability Committee.

The documents don’t spell out exactly what’s planned, but the reference to additional derivatives raises the possibility of more Tasman body styles. A wagon-bodied 4WD, for example, would give Kia a rival to the Toyota Prado, Ford Everest and Isuzu MU-X.

A hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain is another possibility, potentially helping the Tasman compete with electrified utes such as the BYD Shark and Ford Ranger PHEV. However, neither an SUV nor an electrified Tasman has been confirmed, and neither is specifically identified in the leaked plans.

The current Australian range is powered by a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel producing 154kW and 440Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The timing of the reported update comes as Kia continues to find its feet in Australia’s competitive ute market. The Tasman recorded 275 4×4 sales in October 2026, compared with 5228 Toyota HiLux 4x4s and 4556 Ford Ranger 4x4s for the same month.

Kia has yet to confirm the leaked plans, but 2028 is shaping as the likely timeframe for the Tasman’s next major update.

FAQs

When is the Kia Tasman expected to receive an update?

Leaked production plans point to 2028, although Kia hasn’t officially confirmed the timing.

Will Kia build a Tasman SUV?

A wagon-bodied 4WD based on the Tasman’s ladder-frame platform is a possibility, but no production model has been confirmed.

Will the Kia Tasman get a hybrid engine?

A hybrid or plug-in hybrid is a possibility, but Kia hasn’t confirmed either powertrain for the Tasman.

What engine does the current Kia Tasman use?

The Australian range uses a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel producing 154kW and 440Nm.

Has Kia confirmed the 2028 Tasman update?

No. The information comes from leaked production documents and has not been officially confirmed by Kia.

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