ARB Releases an Awesome Catalogue for a Truck We Can’t Get

I think we’re officially in “insult to injury” territory, or at least I am because ARB just teased a whole suite of awesome accessories for the yet-to-be-released Kia Tasman. Now, just in review, this pint-sized truck will be available with some cool off-road/utility options straight from the factory, including a four-door cab with a six-foot bed, a tray bed, crawl control, 9.5 inches of ground clearance, and a locking rear differential. However, it doesn’t seem likely that this offering from Kia will make it to the States.

With that disappointing thought in mind, ARB’s offerings are still cool to see. For starters, a hooped and hoopless bull bar will provide impact protection up front and a more aggressive look to the controversial front end of the Tasman. For even more protection on the trail, the hooped bullbar can be paired with front rails.

On the opposite end of the truck, half and full canopies are available for the tray bed. Uptop roof racks for the cab and tray provide plenty of cargo capacity. ARB also lists bash plates, tub lids, rock sliders, and more as part of the Tasman product catalog. All of this, in addition to 40+ items, will be available directly from Kia.

Image via ARB

Image via ARB

Image via ARB

Image via ARB

Image via ARB

Image via ARB

Image via ARB

Image via ARB

Without a doubt, the Tasman isn’t for everyone. The previously mentioned grill and front clip were a bold choice, and the fender flares are a unique design, but when you look at the options, it will make a great work truck or overland rig in the countries where it’s available. Somewhat surprisingly, the starting MSRP of $43,000 AUD (around $28,000 USD, not that it matters) puts it squarely in the middle of the Hilux price bracket, and the top-of-the-line X-Pro trim is just shy of $75,000 AUD (nearing $49,000 USD). Once again, this is close to a top-spec Hilux.

Even though it’s not exactly a budget option, some forecasts predict it will be a top seller for Kia in its respective markets. An estimated 20,000 units per annum would make it a quarter of the global production output of Kia. Based on a recent hint from Kia, they’re putting a lot of trust in the Tasman because an SUV version is in the works. However, I wouldn’t hold my breath for that to be available in the States either. Regardless, our overlanding friends in Australia

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