- ARB offers a wide range of accessories for the Kia Tasman pickup.
- Upgrades include bull bars, LEDs, roof racks, suspension, and bed gear.
- Kia highlights the Tasman’s potential with factory accessories from launch.
Update: ARB and Kia have finally shown the goods, complete with real photos and fresh details, so we’ve gone back and brought the article up to speed.
The Kia Tasman has been stirring the pot in pickup circles ever since it was unveiled, mostly thanks to its polarizing design. However, as is the case with most models in the segment, its looks can be significantly altered with the help of aftermarket bits.
Australian tuner ARB has introduced a range of accessories meant to amp up the truck’s off-road capabilities and overall practicality.
More: Kia’s Cooking Something Spicy For Its New Pickup
The company has shared photos of a Tasman prototype fitted with some of the available options. The highlight is the Summit MKII Bar, replacing the front bumper and offering protection for the grille, headlights, and fenders.
The beefy bull bar integrates LED fog lights, daytime running lights, clearance lights, sequential indicators, and recovery points.
The profile features tubular steel Summit Side Rails and Steps, but what caught our eye is the MITS alloy canopy at the back. This is available in different sizes with optional interior packs.
In the pictured example it is combined with a rear ladder, a full-size spare carrier, and a base rack that can be fitted with solar panels. As an alternative for work-focused builds ARB offers alloy trays with drop-down side boards.
ARB 4×4 Accessories
Those who need to carry overlanding equipment can opt for the modular drawer systems, slide-out kitchen, and various cargo solutions. Furthermore, the truck can be fitted with all sorts of camping gear including roof top tents and awnings, transforming it into a cosy home for the Australian outback.
The off-road capabilities of the Tasman can be improved with the Old Man EMU 4×4 suspension featuring heavy-duty MT64 shock absorbers.
The prototype combines the lifted chassis with beadlock wheels wrapped in beefy all-terrain rubber. Those intending to use the truck in serious off-roading could also shop for winches, recovery boards, air systems, and more.
ARB doesn’t offer any upgrades for the 2.2-liter turbodiesel which is good for 207 hp (154 kW / 209 PS) and 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque. The mill is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, sending power to all four wheels with the help of a 4WD system.
Kia’s Own Aftermarket Plans
Kia is betting on the aftermarket potential of the Tasman, offering a range of optional accessories from the factory as an alternative. This includes everything from roof racks and sports bars to bull bars, off-road bumpers, fender extensions, and even a snorkel.
Plus, there are various canopy designs and rear bed accessories, which should cover just about every type of Tasman owner, from the weekend warrior to the professional off-roader.
More: Kia Tasman Isn’t Done Yet And Big Changes Are Already In Motion
The automaker also hinted at a rugged version of the truck with the Tasman Weekender concept that could serve as a rival to the Ford Range Raptor.
Furthermore, Kia officials recently suggested that the Tasman will keep improving throughout a long lifecycle, with the possible addition of hybrid and EV powertrain options next to the existing combustion units.
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