S
ince collecting the new 
Tasman from Tauranga 
Motor Company at the 
end of April, I’ve spent 
the past couple of months 
behind the wheel, and I’ve 
genuinely enjoyed driving this big 
ute. The proof is on the odometer, as 
I’ve covered more than 5,000km in 
just over two months.
As I noted in the first test drive 
in the May issue, the Tasman looks 
quite different from a traditional ute. 
Its larger-looking stance helps it stand 
out, and it often draws attention 
when I’m refuelling at the petrol 
station or launching at the boat 
ramp, with plenty of people keen to 
ask about it and take a closer look.
I am happy to inform them of how 
well it drives and with so much 
great technology on hand and 
it does have a few best-in-class 
features that appeal to buyers.
Getting familiar with the Tasman 
during this time has been beneficial 
and especially the towing features 
which is a key reason why I need 
a ute for towing and launching 
boats, as we get around Godzone 
exploring the coastline from the 
Bay of Plenty and up to Northland.
ENHANCED SAFETY 
AND COMFORT
Before covering the towing 
aspects and to recap on what 
the Tasman features are for 
readers who might not have 
read the previous test article.
The Tasman has innovative 
technology including a near 30” 
Panoramic Display, Highway 
Driving Assist 2, trailer-optimised 
ADAS, remote parking assist, 
panoramic displays, and advanced 
noise-reduction systems 
for comfort and safety.
Kia Tasman TX
A Hayman Reese fitted towbar by Best 
Bars New Zealand provides a quality 
connection from ute to boat trailer.
The tan coloured Tasman with 
its muscular lines and big 
purposeful wheel arches certainly 
stands out and gets plenty of 
attention at the boat ramp.
20  FISHING IN GODZONE MAGAZINE
Tested

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