Kia is officially jumping into the U.S. pickup truck market — but not with the model you might have expected.
Rather than modifying its recently revealed Tasman pickup, Kia’s leadership confirmed that an entirely different midsize truck is being developed specifically for American buyers.
It’s a move that signals just how seriously Kia is taking its U.S. growth strategy and a sign that the pickup wars are far from over.
Here’s everything we know so far.
Not the Tasman—A U.S.-Specific Truck
Kia unveiled the Tasman earlier this year, a rugged, body-on-frame pickup designed for markets like Australia, South Africa, and the Middle East.
While rumours swirled about the Tasman making its way stateside, Kia has now clarified:
The Tasman was never meant for America.
Instead, according to CEO Ho Sung Song, the U.S. will get a separate, new pickup model designed to meet American tastes, regulations, and market expectations.
In other words, expect something that fits more naturally alongside the likes of the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Chevrolet Colorado — rather than an overseas model adapted for local use.
What Kind of Pickup Can We Expect?
While full details are scarce, a few things are clear based on Kia’s current direction and recent product strategies:
- Midsize Focus:
Kia is targeting the heart of the midsize segment, not aiming directly at full-size trucks like the Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado. - Electric Variant Possible:
Kia’s product roadmap heavily leans into electrification. An electric or plug-in hybrid version of the pickup seems highly likely, especially given the growing competition from the Rivian R1T, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Chevy Silverado EV. - Rugged Styling:
Expect the U.S. pickup to share the bold, upright design language previewed by the Tasman — think chunky fenders, strong lines, and off-road capability baked into the design. - Practical Sizing:
Based on market needs, Kia will likely size the new truck close to the Tacoma, making it versatile enough for urban buyers and weekend adventurers alike.
Expected Pricing: Where Will It Land?
Although Kia hasn’t released official numbers yet, industry insiders and analysts expect the following:
- Starting Price: Around $30,000 to $35,000 for base models
- Mid-Trims: Well-equipped models could fall into the $40,000 range.
- Top Trims: Fully loaded versions — especially electric variants — might approach $50,000.
This would put Kia’s pickup competitively right against the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Chevrolet Colorado — with the potential for slightly better value, depending on standard features.
Given Kia’s usual strategy of offering strong content for the price, buyers can expect a lot of standard tech, safety equipment, and warranty coverage compared to rivals.
Where Will It Be Built?
Tariffs and U.S. market pressures make it nearly certain that Kia’s new pickup will be built in North America.
The most likely candidate?
Hyundai Motor Group’s Metaplant America facility in Georgia is set to open later this year.
Producing the pickup domestically would not only dodge the “chicken tax” on imported trucks but also allow Kia to market the truck as “Made in America,” a strong selling point for pickup buyers.
Why Now?
Kia’s timing couldn’t be better.
The midsize pickup segment is surging again after years of stagnation.
Models like the new Tacoma, updated Ranger, and revamped Colorado are bringing attention back to the category — and more importantly, buyers.
By launching a U.S.-specific model, Kia avoids trying to force-fit a global product into a market with different needs.
It also allows the brand to compete head-on with fresh, competitive offerings rather than chasing older designs.
Given Kia’s recent success with vehicles like the Telluride, Sportage, and EV6, there’s every reason to believe the brand can carve out a piece of the pickup market as well.
What Happens to the Tasman?
The Tasman will continue as Kia’s global pickup offering outside of North America.
Built on a traditional ladder-frame chassis with diesel engine options, it’s aimed at markets where rugged utility takes priority over everyday comfort.
But for American customers, where expectations around refinement, technology, and electrification run higher, a new solution was needed.
And that’s exactly what Kia plans to deliver.
Final Thoughts: Kia Aims to Shake Up the Pickup World
Kia isn’t just dipping a toe into the pickup segment — it’s designing a new model from scratch for America’s most loyal truck buyers.
It’s a bold move, but one that fits perfectly into Kia’s recent pattern: delivering strong, well-priced vehicles that punch above their weight.
We’ll learn more about Kia’s U.S. pickup plans on April 9, when the company hosts its Investor Day event.
Expect production timelines, rough specs, and maybe even an early teaser to drop.
For now, one thing’s clear:
The U.S. pickup market is about to get a serious new player — and it’s wearing a Kia badge.
