Kia has made the strategic decision to exclude a manual transmission option for the Tasman ute in Australian showrooms, prioritizing its aim to achieve a five-star safety rating across most of its model range. This move is largely influenced by safety standards and the integration of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which are more compatible with automatic transmissions. As a result, the Tasman will only be offered with an eight-speed automatic transmission in Australia, even though a six-speed manual version is available in international markets.
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This decision places Kia in line with a growing industry trend that has seen manual transmissions steadily phased out, particularly in the 4x4 ute segment. In 2023, manual utes accounted for less than 10 percent of 4x4 utility vehicle sales in Australia, and this figure is expected to decrease further following the discontinuation of manual options for the Mazda BT-50 and all non-cab-chassis variants of the Mitsubishi Triton. Consequently, only four utes in Australia now offer a manual transmission: the Isuzu D-Max, Mitsubishi Triton, Nissan Navara, and Toyota HiLux. Notably, only the Navara and HiLux continue to provide the manual option in both tub-style and cab-chassis configurations.
According to Roland Rivero, Kia Australia’s head of product, the manual transmission poses technical challenges when it comes to integrating ADAS features necessary for meeting safety benchmarks set by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). He explained that certain safety systems, particularly those that bring the vehicle to a complete stop in emergencies, are difficult to implement with a manual gearbox. These systems rely on the car’s computer to control various functions, including clutch engagement, which is not possible with a traditional manual setup. Without the ability to electronically manage the clutch and prevent the engine from stalling, manual versions fall short in safety evaluations.
While the manual Tasman has been developed for global markets, Kia has no immediate plans to certify or release it in Australia due to these complications. Furthermore, Kia has disclosed that not every Tasman variant will pursue an ANCAP rating. Higher-end models such as the X-Line and X-Pro will forgo the rating altogether, partly because their off-road-oriented design excludes key pedestrian safety features, like a front bumper lip. These models, however, are aimed at lifestyle buyers who may not prioritize formal safety scores as highly. On the other hand, manual variants are generally more attractive to fleet operators and budget-conscious consumers, who often require vehicles with top-tier safety credentials. This demographic reality reinforces Kia’s decision to withhold the manual Tasman from the Australian market, at least for the foreseeable future.