Kia, the growing South Korean brand has big plans for the South African market in 2025. These plans were all showcased at a recent media event in the Western Cape.
Kia entered the South African market as we were about to enter a new millennium. From there on the brand constantly grew; not only in terms of sales, but also in terms of product offerings. It has grown to be a constant top 10 brand.
Taking the charging Chinese into account, Kia still achieved a top 10 position in November 2024, selling 1662 units. Although the brand aims to increase its monthly sales, it is achieving its goal of being in the top 10.
However, Kia is planning to change this in 2025 with exciting new models on the horizon; especially considering their extraordinary EV range sold in the rest of the world.
New Tasman
The first of these will be the Kia Tasman, set to reach local shores during the latter part of 2025.
“Bold” is certainly the word that comes to mind when thinking of the Tasman. Set to compete in one of the most competitive vehicle segments in Southern Africa, Kia is taking a cautious yet optimistic approach to this market entry.
Knowing the bakkie might not dethrone the known and reliable stalwarts straight away, Kia aims to offer something different, yet with a lifestyle focus. While this design might not appeal to everyone, we suggest viewing this vehicle in person as photos or videos don’t really do it justice.
In the flesh, this bakkie certainly has a strong persona, causing quite a “rubber-neck” effect on those passing by. And whilst it might look different to the conventional bakkies on offer, the new Tasman has a lot of iconic, new, and quirky features.
More will be said once the bakkie arrives, yet we can confirm that two engines will be available, with one being a 2.2L (4 cylinder) turbodiesel, while a 2.5L (4 cylinder) turbopetrol will also be available. Yet to be confirmed, these engines produce 154kW / 441Nm (2.2L turbodiesel) and 207kW / 421Nm (2.5L turbopetrol).
Both will be able to pull 3.5 tons (unbraked) and carry around a tonne of weight. Kia also confirmed that initial shipments for South Africa will only be based on double cab units, whilst more utilitarian versions might be sent at a later stage.
Going electric?
Globally, Kia is one of the frontrunners when it comes to electric vehicles. Just think of the EV9, which won the 2024 “World Car of the Year” and 2024 “World Electric Vehicle” awards. Then there is the stellar EV6 GT, which also took the 2023 “World Performance Car” prize.
Although Kia South Africa also displayed the astonishing EV5 at the same event, the brand mentioned that it is eager to launch the EV5 to a limited amount of local buyers as soon as 2025, yet is hesitant of other factors, such as the local charging grid.
Another consideration is import tax, which is one of the main factors for South Africa’s sloppy integration with electric vehicles (EVs). Kia is already taking on the homologation process in order to start selling as soon as these factors look somewhat more positive.
The EV5 itself is a magnificent SUV, similar in size to the Sportage. As with all the other models on display, the EV5 embodies a unique and innovative design. It is full of smart storage solutions.
Furthermore, an innovative design also means that the two rows of seats can be configured to seat six people in total. These seats also house USB-C charging points, smartly integrated into the seats itself, while passengers in the front can expect climate control, electrically-operated seats (heated), as well as a 12.3” driver’s screen and infotainment system.
Three EV5 models are currently available on the global market, able to cover ranges of 400 – 540km.
A new Carnival and Sorento for 2025
The general sentiment amongst most motoring journalists is that the Kia Carnival is the true road trip king. Spacious, large, fuel-efficient, yet easy to drive, the Carnival is difficult to dislike.
Kia will bring a refreshed version to South-African shores in 2025 and it is quite the looker. We adored the 2022 version and think this will continue with the 2025 model which now features a much more futuristic and innovative design.
Interior upgrading was certainly a key focus for Kia as the new Carnival features a new infotainment system, and overall instrument section. It features a much sleeker, simplistic and easily operated design.
Likewise, the new Sorento also receives a mild facelift, with the new vertical LED lights and black and silver alloy wheels (19-inch) following the clear new design ideology of Kia. Similar to the 2022 Carnival, we also loved the Sorento.
The most prominent interior redesign is that of the upgraded infotainment system, as well as the digitally operated prompts (instead of the physical buttons in the previous model).
More will be shared upon the official launch of this new models, yet current prices (Carnival and Sorento) swivel around the R1 million mark.