Though the head of Kia South Africa admits Tasman sales have thus far been “disappointing”, he says the brand remains hopeful of reaching its targets…
- Kia SA boss “disappointed” by Tasman sales
- Remains hopeful of reaching sales targets
- 264 units of Tasman registered, year to date
- Facelift to bring “more acceptable” styling?
The man at the helm of Kia South Africa admits that initial sales of the Tasman double-cab bakkie have been “disappointing” but adds that the brand remains hopeful of reaching its local sales targets.
Paul Turnbull, Chief Executive Officer of Kia South Africa, made the comments during a wide-ranging interview in Cars.co.za’s custom-built podcast booth at Naamsa’s SA Auto Week 2026 event in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal in October.
“We all know [the Tasman is] the best bakkie – it’s really good. But sales have been disappointing. When we first launched the bakkie, it looked different and [that styling] was something to get used to. So, [we realised] you need to get the cars on the road and people behind the wheel,” Turnbull said.
“So, [initial sales of the Tasman have been] disappointing but each month it’s growing and we’re still hoping to get to our target soon,” Turnbull said, adding that Kia South Africa was approximately “40% off where we’d like to be”.
According to figures reported to Naamsa, 73 units of the Tasman were registered in March 2026, ahead of the official launch in April 2026. Sales in that launch month amounted to 31 units, a figure that grew to 39 units in May before dropping to 28 units and 27 units in June and July, respectively. Some 17 units were sold in August, before 30 units were moved in September and 18 in October.
Year to date at the end of October 2026, total registrations of the Tasman in South Africa stand at 264 units. As a reminder, the three-strong Tasman range runs from R679 995 to R999 995, with all derivatives employing Kia’s 2.2-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine (154 kW/440 Nm) and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Turnbull suggested the Motus-distributed brand was “doing a lot of lifestyle events and lots of outdoor shows and getting people in the bakkie, because that’s the only way we’re going to win that market”.
“Bakkie buyers – especially [when it comes to] the double cabs – are loyal to their brands. You can see the sales numbers every month; it’s the same top five and the numbers are huge. And, yes, we want a piece of that market,” he added.
“I think when it comes time to do the facelift, [Kia Motors] might shape it a little bit differently, so it’s more acceptable to everybody. But as you see more of them [on local roads], it grows on people,” Turnbull said.
Revealed globally back in October 2024, the Tasman is imported from the automaker’s Hwasung factory in South Korea. The double-cab model offered in South Africa measures 5 410 mm from front to back, while the listed payload ranges from 1 008 kg to 1 123 kg.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How have sales of the Kia Tasman performed in South Africa?
A: Kia South Africa CEO Paul Turnbull admitted to Cars.co.za that initial Tasman sales have been “disappointing” and running about 40% below target, with total year-to-date registrations reaching 264 units by the end of October 2026.
Q: What engine and transmission power the Kia Tasman in South Africa?
A: All derivatives in the three-strong local Tasman line-up are powered by a 2.2-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 154 kW and 440 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Q: What is current pricing and what future updates are expected for the Kia Tasman?
A: The local Tasman range is priced from R679 995 to R999 995. Looking ahead, Kia’s leadership suggested that a future mid-cycle facelift may adjust the bakkie’s polarising styling to broader buyer tastes.
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Ryan Bubear
Having written about everything from sport and politics to crime, Ryan eventually settled on motoring. For well over 15 years, he's been penning articles – both online and in print – about the broader automotive industry, though he's particularly fascinated by vehicle-sales statistics. A freelance writer and editor, Ryan has owned a 1971 Austin Mini Mk3 for 20-plus years.
