Did you know that a Kia truck exists out there? The Kia Tasman is available in foreign markets. Some critics wish that it were available in America, but tariffs hurt its chances. Also, in my humble opinion, we aren’t missing out. 

Tariffs could prevent the Kia Tasman from coming to America 

Other countries, such as Australia, get the Kia Tasman. However, new automotive tariffs in America could prevent it from coming here. The chicken tax already places a 25% tariff on foreign vehicles. Now Trump has slapped another 25% on top of that. 

According to AutoBlog, executives shared that Kia can’t absorb additional tariffs to maintain competitive pricing. Other automakers have increased prices and faced sales declines. 

The truck is currently being produced in South Korea, and it could potentially be built in America. But moving production would take time. Plus, it might not currently meet American emission standards. 

However, the Kia truck isn’t even doing well. Kia admits that it has been a sales flop in 2025. It’s failing to compete in a crowded market with strong competitors such as the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux. 

There are lower priced, fleet-focused, and work truck rivals for people to buy. The Tasman has only accounted for 2% of the market. But cheaper models are on the way. It has only sold about 3,109 trucks when it had a goal of reaching 8,335 sales. 

Also, while high prices could be to blame, I’m thinking the truck’s style is also an issue. The bubble nose design is striking but in a weird way. 

Some drivers are attracted to the unique style as it’s distinct. However, others have called the Tasman ugly, grotesque, and weird.