2024 Kia Tasman Review: A Game Changer in the Mid-Size SUV Market

The 2024 Kia Tasman is a highly anticipated model, marking the brand’s ambitious foray into the competitive mid-size SUV segment. Designed to blend performance, technology, and practicality, the Tasman is aimed at attracting a broad range of buyers looking for a family-friendly vehicle that doesn’t compromise on style or driving dynamics. With a fresh exterior design, advanced features, and a choice of powertrains, the Kia Tasman could be a game changer for the brand in a market that continues to see explosive growth. Here’s a deep dive into the Tasman’s key features, driving experience, and what sets it apart from its competitors.

Exterior Design: Bold and Modern

The first thing that catches your eye when looking at the 2024 Kia Tasman is its bold, contemporary exterior design. Kia has moved away from the traditional, more conservative lines of its previous models, opting instead for a sleeker, more aggressive aesthetic. The front fascia is dominated by a wide, angular grille that incorporates the brand’s signature Tiger Nose design. The headlights are sharp and modern, with LED DRLs (daytime running lights) that give the vehicle a distinct, almost futuristic look.

The profile is marked by sculpted sides, with a dynamic line running from the front wheel arches to the rear, adding a sense of motion even when the vehicle is stationary. The roofline gently slopes toward the rear, giving the Tasman a coupe-like appearance, while the rear end features sharply designed tail-lights that wrap around the vehicle for a more cohesive look. This design language makes the Tasman look muscular and poised, appealing to those who want an SUV with presence on the road without being too aggressive.

Overall, the exterior design of the Kia Tasman strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and ruggedness, making it a visually attractive option for those in the mid-size SUV market.

Interior: Spacious and High-Tech

Step inside the Kia Tasman, and it’s clear that Kia has prioritized comfort and technology. The cabin offers ample space for five passengers, with well-crafted materials and a clean, minimalist design. High-quality soft-touch plastics, plush seating materials, and refined accents elevate the overall experience. The dashboard layout is simple but functional, with a central touchscreen positioned high on the console for easy access while driving.

One of the standout features of the interior is the large, user-friendly infotainment system. The 12.3-inch touchscreen is responsive, with clear graphics and an intuitive interface that integrates seamlessly with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, a digital driver’s display replaces traditional gauges, providing a customizable experience and offering a wealth of information at your fingertips. Kia’s UVO infotainment suite is also standard, allowing for remote control over various vehicle functions, such as climate settings and vehicle location.

As for seating, the front seats offer excellent comfort and support, with power-adjustable controls and available heating and ventilation. The rear seats are roomy enough for adults, with plenty of legroom and headroom, making the Tasman an excellent option for families or long road trips. The rear seats also fold flat, expanding cargo space for larger items, a practical feature that adds to the vehicle’s versatility.

Performance: Balanced Powertrains

Kia offers a variety of powertrain options for the 2024 Tasman, catering to different driving preferences. The base model is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and efficient acceleration. While not overwhelmingly powerful, the four-cylinder engine provides ample performance for daily driving and highway cruising, striking a balance between fuel economy and driving satisfaction.

For those seeking a little more power, the Tasman is also available with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 250 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. This engine option significantly improves the vehicle’s acceleration and overall performance, making the Tasman more engaging to drive. Whether navigating tight city streets or cruising on the highway, the turbocharged engine provides plenty of power for overtaking and climbing steep inclines. This engine comes with an upgraded all-wheel-drive system that ensures better traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.

In terms of driving dynamics, the Kia Tasman impresses with its smooth, controlled ride. The suspension system is tuned for comfort but doesn’t shy away from offering sharp handling when needed. The steering is responsive and offers a good amount of feedback, making the vehicle feel composed during cornering. The Tasman strikes a perfect balance between comfort and performance, making it suitable for both everyday commutes and long-distance trips.

Safety and Technology: A Comprehensive Package

Kia has made safety a priority with the 2024 Tasman, equipping it with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems. Standard features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. For added convenience, the Tasman also offers features like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system, which helps improve visibility and provide peace of mind while driving in tight spaces or parking situations.

The vehicle’s safety features work harmoniously with its advanced technology systems. The available parking sensors and lane-keeping assist ensure the driver is aware of any potential hazards, while the traffic jam assist can reduce stress in slow-moving traffic by automatically steering and adjusting speed. These technologies enhance the driving experience and help prevent accidents, making the Tasman a strong contender in the safety-conscious SUV market.

Fuel Economy: Competitive Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important factor for any modern SUV, and the Kia Tasman does not disappoint in this department. The base 2.5-liter engine offers competitive fuel economy, with EPA estimates of around 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine provides slightly lower efficiency, but still respectable figures of around 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. These figures make the Tasman an attractive option for those looking for an SUV that won’t break the bank at the pump, particularly in comparison to some of its rivals.

Final Thoughts: A Strong Contender

The 2024 Kia Tasman is a well-rounded SUV that excels in design, technology, performance, and safety. With its stylish exterior, comfortable and high-tech interior, multiple powertrain options, and advanced safety features, it’s a compelling choice for buyers in the mid-size SUV market. While it may not offer the extreme performance of some sportier models or the plush luxury of premium brands, the Tasman delivers where it counts, offering a perfect balance for the modern consumer. Whether you’re after an everyday family vehicle or something capable of handling weekend adventures, the Kia Tasman is a strong contender that is well worth considering.