Kia’s first dedicated pickup truck, the Tasman, generates interest as it approaches its global market debut. Adding to the anticipation, a recently released rendering of a 3-door off-road SUV based on the Tasman caught public attention. The digital concept comes from automotive illustrator Theottle.
The rendering presents a bold design that combines the Tasman’s robust utility with visual elements reminiscent of the Jeep Wrangler. This follows Kia’s reveal of the Tasman Weekender concept, which already resonated strongly with outdoor lifestyle and off-road enthusiasts.
X-Pro Trim Design Cues Elevate Off-Road Image
The concept is strongly influenced by the front-end styling of the Tasman X-Pro trim. A prominent black grille, short front overhang, and off-road-specific fender flares all contribute to an off-road aesthetic. Square LED headlights and taillights incorporate Kia’s distinctive Star Map Signature Lighting, translating the pickup’s look into an SUV format.
The body features traditional off-road SUV characteristics, including a short wheelbase, removable hardtop, and a spare tire mounted at the rear. Large off-road tires and compact proportions suggest agility and a unique personality. The rear design includes integrated corner steps on the bumper and a rear diffuser.
Despite the concept’s appeal, it is unlikely to enter production.. The Tasman is built on a body-on-frame chassis, and transforming it into an SUV would require major structural changes. Also, global demand for traditional 3-door off-road SUVs remains limited outside North America.
Public Response: This Design Would Be a Guaranteed Hit
Although this rendering is only a digital concept for now, it highlights Kia’s proactive approach in the pickup and SUV markets. There is growing interest in how these emotionally driven design experiments might influence Kia’s future design direction. As the industry moves toward electrification, platform flexibility is becoming increasingly important. Elements of Tasman’s design could inform Kia’s future model development.
Kia may not plan to build a 3-door off-road SUV, but this concept shows what’s possible from a design perspective. That’s especially notable considering the mixed reception to the original Tasman’s styling, particularly its straight-edged fender flares. The positive feedback this SUV rendering received points to untapped opportunities in Kia’s design strategy.
Public comments were mostly favorable, with many preferring the concept’s design over the original. Some noted that minor tweaks enhanced its appeal, while others thought an SUV format might have attracted more interest than the pickup version.
