Is Kia Building a 4Runner Rival? What We Know About the Kia Tasman-Based SUV
When Kia confirmed the Tasman pickup was coming, truck enthusiasts across Canada paid attention. But now, there’s even more reason for excitement: credible sources, including Motor1, are reporting that the Tasman pickup platform might spawn a rugged, body-on-frame SUV aimed squarely at the Toyota 4Runner segment.
At Kia 417, Ottawa’s top Kia dealership, we’re already seeing growing interest in this potential SUV. Here’s why the industry is buzzing—and why it could become the off-road-ready SUV Canadian drivers have been waiting for.
1. What Is the Kia Tasman?
The Kia Tasman is a midsize pickup truck set to debut in 2025. It’s built on a body-on-frame architecture, not the unibody platform shared with most current Kia crossovers like the Sorento or Telluride. This architecture makes it ideal for towing, heavy hauling, and—most importantly—off-road performance.
- Estimated Launch: 2025
- Platform: Body-on-frame, possibly ladder-type
- Target Markets: Australia, South Korea, and global expansion (including North America under consideration)
- Powertrain: Turbocharged 2.2L diesel, V6 gasoline options, and potential hybrid variants
Now, based on early development intel, Kia may adapt this platform to create a rugged SUV with seating for five to seven and serious trail capability.
TEST DRIVE THE 2025 KIA TELLURIDE2. Will This SUV Compete with the Toyota 4Runner?
The Toyota 4Runner has dominated the off-road midsize SUV category in Canada for over a decade. With its high ground clearance, low-range transfer case, and go-anywhere durability, it’s long been the favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
But the segment is aging. While Toyota is updating the 4Runner, there’s room for innovation—and this is where Kia could step in.
According to Motor1, Kia’s engineers are actively exploring a 4Runner-style SUV using the Tasman’s platform, with additional tuning for suspension articulation, 4×4 drive modes, and heavy-duty construction.
Why it could compete with the 4Runner:
| Feature | Toyota 4Runner | Kia Tasman-Based SUV (Est.) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Body-on-frame | Body-on-frame |
| Horsepower | 270 hp (4.0L V6) | Est. 280–300 hp (V6 Turbo) |
| Seating Capacity | 5–7 | 5–7 |
| Ground Clearance | 9.6 in (243 mm) | Est. 9.8 in (250 mm) |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) | Est. 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) |
| Fuel Economy | 13.8 L/100km (17 MPG) | Est. 11.5 L/100km (20.5 MPG) |
| Price (CAD/USD) | From $55,000 / $40,000 | Est. $53,000 / $39,000 |
3. Off-Road Features in Development
If this SUV becomes a reality, it will need to walk the walk—not just talk the off-road talk. Early speculations suggest it could include:
- Full-time 4WD system with selectable low-range gearing
- Locking rear differential
- Skid plates and rock sliders
- Terrain management modes (Sand, Snow, Mud, Rock)
- Multi-link rear suspension with heavy-duty dampers
- Roof rack, tow hooks, and integrated trail cameras
These are the types of features outdoor adventurers across Ottawa, Gatineau, and the Canadian Shield will appreciate when heading off the beaten path.
4. Interior & Technology Expectations
Unlike older 4x4s that feel utilitarian inside, Kia’s new SUV is likely to blend ruggedness with advanced tech. If it borrows cabin design cues from the EV9 and Telluride, we might see:
- Dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Advanced HUD and driver-assist technology
- Harman Kardon premium sound
- Leatherette or durable waterproof upholstery
- Three-zone climate control
This would allow it to serve double duty as a family hauler and off-road warrior.
5. A True Adventure SUV for Canadians?
Canadians have long gravitated toward vehicles that can handle:
- Harsh winters
- Long road trips
- Off-grid cottage trails
- Snowy mountain climbs
This potential SUV could fill a gap that exists between soft-road crossovers and massive full-size SUVs.
If priced competitively—say between $53,000–$65,000 CAD—and with fuel economy in the 11–12 L/100 km range, it would pose a serious threat to the 4Runner, Ford Bronco, and even Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.
6. What About Hybrid or Electric Options?
Kia has been investing heavily in electrification. Although the initial Tasman models are expected to launch with diesel and gas engines, hybrid variants are rumored for global markets. A plug-in hybrid version of the SUV could follow.
Given Canada’s EV incentives and rising demand for eco-conscious off-roaders, this could become a huge selling point for Ottawa-area drivers.
Potential hybrid specs:
- 2.5L turbocharged engine + electric motor
- Combined output: 290 hp
- EV-only range: Approx. 45–55 km (28–34 mi)
- Fuel economy: Estimated 6.5 L/100 km (36 MPG equivalent)
7. Kia vs. the Rest: A Speculation Snapshot
| Vehicle | Platform | Max Horsepower | Max Towing | Price Range (CAD) | Off-Road Packages |
| Toyota 4Runner | Body-on-frame | 270 hp | 5,000 lbs | $55,000–$68,000 | TRD Pro, TRD Off-Road |
| Ford Bronco | Body-on-frame | 418 hp (Raptor) | 4,500 lbs | $53,000–$90,000 | Sasquatch, Raptor |
| Jeep Wrangler 4xe | Body-on-frame | 375 hp | 3,500 lbs | $59,995–$77,000 | Rubicon, Willys |
| Kia Tasman SUV (Est.) | Body-on-frame | 280–300 hp | 6,000 lbs | $53,000–$65,000 | X-Pro, Off-Road Pack? |
8. When Will We Know More?
According to Motor1, the Tasman pickup is on track for a full reveal in late 2024. Prototypes have already been spotted undergoing testing in harsh terrain, including snow-covered conditions and desert trails.
An SUV variant could be revealed in 2025, with Canadian availability projected by early 2026.
9. Why Ottawa Drivers Should Stay Tuned
If you currently drive a:
- Kia Sorento or Telluride and want more ruggedness
- Toyota 4Runner and feel it’s outdated
- Ford Bronco but want more reliability
- Jeep but need more daily comfort
Then this SUV could be the perfect evolution of utility, comfort, and capability.
Plus, as always, Kia 417 will be at the front of the line to offer this model with:
10. Final Thoughts: Is This the Next Big Off-Roader?
If Kia truly brings a Tasman-based SUV to market, it could become the underdog champion of Canada’s off-road segment. With body-on-frame toughness, modern styling, and the latest in safety and infotainment tech, this model could do what many have tried and failed: challenge Toyota on its own turf.
For now, it’s speculation—but very credible speculation.
Want to be the first to know when more details drop? Sign up for alerts and talk to our team at Kia 417 Ottawa. This could be the SUV Ottawa’s adventurers have been waiting for.
The 4Runner has had its moment. Now, it might be time for Kia to take the trail.
TEST DRIVE THE 2025 KIA TELLURIDE
