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Drive - Kia Tasman ute design is growing on potential customers, brand says
Kia says customers are coming around to the Tasman ute's unconventional looks – and prefer it in the metal over the photos – as it nears 20,000 expressions of interest.
Kia Australia says it has seen a "narrative shift" in opinions on the controversial styling of its first dual-cab ute, the 2025 Kia Tasman, due in local showrooms in July next year.
The South Korean car giant has been the subject of wide-ranging online criticism of the Tasman's appearance, which designers have said was intended to represent "something new" and stand apart from rivals.
Australian Kia executives acknowledged the "commentary" in a media briefing last week, but said surveys the company has conducted since the ute's late October reveal suggests it is starting to win over the public.