Amman, Jordan – Kia Middle East and Africa today hosted an exclusive desert driving experience in Jordan to showcase the Kia Tasman, the brand’s highly anticipated first-ever pickup truck. The event, which followed the Tasman’s world premiere at the Jeddah International Motor Show in October 2024, put the vehicle’s rugged capability, durability, and refined comfort to the ultimate test on a challenging route spanning from Amman to Petra.
The drive was designed to highlight the Tasman’s ability to conquer the region’s diverse and demanding landscapes. Participants navigated from the depths of the Dead Sea basin, tackling shifting dunes in Wadi Araba and rocky climbs in Al Bayda, before reaching the historic city of Petra. The varied terrain was chosen to demonstrate the Tasman’s versatile performance and its SUV-like interior comfort, a unique feature in the pickup segment.
The driving experience included a series of carefully designed obstacles that pushed the Tasman to its limits, reinforcing the results of over 18,000 tests conducted during its development. Drivers tackled a bumpy mogul descent to test the X-Trek system, a steep 30-degree side hill to prove lateral stability, and challenging uphill and downhill gradients that showcased the vehicle’s traction and suspension performance.
Ahmed Soudodi, Vice President of Product and Marketing at Kia Middle East & Africa, commented on the significance of the event. “With the Tasman, Kia is breaking new ground in the pickup segment. This test drive experience in Jordan demonstrates its ability to conquer the region’s toughest terrains while delivering the comfort and technology that define Kia. The Tasman empowers its owners to stand apart, transforming every drive into a statement of capability and confidence. It further reflects Kia’s commitment to shaping the future of mobility in the Middle East as we bring vehicles that meet the region’s unique demands.”
The Kia Tasman, backed by over 20 years of research and 50+ years of military vehicle expertise, is purpose-built for demanding off-road conditions. The X-Pro trim features 252mm of ground clearance and a 32-degree approach angle, along with advanced drive modes, including a dedicated Desert Mode specifically tailored for Middle Eastern terrains. Despite its rugged exterior, the Tasman’s cabin is spacious and ergonomic, blending bold styling with best-in-class rear legroom and smart storage solutions, embodying Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy.
As a disruptor in the pickup segment, the Kia Tasman appeals to a new generation of buyers who seek individuality, practicality, and performance in one vehicle. Its combination of strength, versatility, and advanced technology reinforces Kia’s commitment to innovation and sustainable mobility.
