Tasman vs Triton – Comparison of Kia Tasman and Mitsubishi Triton

Tasman vs Triton – With the upcoming release of the Kia Tasman, buyers will be looking at what it compares to. The closest in engine outputs and possibly features is the Mitsubishi Triton. 

There has certainly been a lot of market hype around the all new Kia Tasman. Most of the public’s comments have focused on the looks, low torque and premium pricing. Its yet to be proven by the market as to its reliability and robustness.

On the other hand the Mitsubishi Triton has been around for years. It has proven itself over and over as a reliable, robust 4WD.

Readers can find out more details about both Utes at the links below.

• Kia Tasman Ute – Everything you need to know
• Mitsubishi 2025 Triton update – what you need to know
• All new Mitsubishi Triton – what we know so far

What this article is about is having a look at some of the stats and features of the two vehicles. I’ve driven the Triton many times over the years. Looking forward to driving the Tasman.

Tasman vs Triton general thoughts

• This comparison isn’t to decide on a winner but rather to bring the items together for readers to make their own judgments
• It also is waiting on more information from Kia
• Im a big fan of the Triton.
  • It looks good,
  • It’s smooth and comfortable to drive on road.
  • Off road it will match it with the best
  • I’ve towed many times with a Triton and it never let me down.
  • This is a Ute that you can buy, add whatever aftermarket accessories you want and head deep into the bush with confidence.
  • The six speed Aisin transmission and super select II are robust and reliable
• Im also a big Kia fan, especially the Sorento and Carnival. And obviously the Stinger (RIP)
  • I’m not a fan of the design. especially when you look at some of the possible designs they could have gone with
  • I also feel that the torque will be a limiting factor. Even the Navara, D-Max and BT-50 are lagging behind the segment leaders HiLux and Ranger.
  • The engine and transmission combination work extremely well in SUVs, but will it be robust enough for heavy duty 4WD and towing duties.
  •  Given its SUV like interior, I feel it may attract more lifestyle buyers, rather than hard core towing and 4WD buyers.

Tasman vs Triton – pricing, drivetrain and engine

The Kia engine and transmission combination has been used over the years, on many vehicles in the Kia/Hyundai stable. Notably the Kia Carnival, Kia Sorento, Hyundai Palisade, Hyundai Santa Fe and Hyundai Staria wagon.

Kia has previously been involved with a 4WD Sorrento, but that was years ago. The new Terrain Mode system is yet to be tested by the market.

The Mitsubishi engine and transmission combination also has been around for years. They have just increased the power and torque for the latest models.

Mitsubishi’s Super Select II 4WD has been proven over many years and is amongst the best on the market.

There are two key things to note here

• The almost $12,000 price difference and
• The torque difference and especially the maximum torque delivery for the Mitsubishi Triton.

• *^Fuel economy based on the Kia Carnival –  same engine but less GVM
• RDAP* is Recommended Drive Away Pricing based on manufacturers pricing or location
• MLP* – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.
• Some features mentioned in the article are options.

Tasman vs Triton Dimensions

Both these Utes are Dual Cab tub style Utes.

Given the lack of full details from the Tasman, some figures are best estimates and will be updated when information becomes available

Couple of things to note

• The impressive ground clearance of the Tasman
• Both have good wading depth
• Tasman has the better approach and departure angles.

Tasman vs Triton External Features

This section is all about features not looks.

Tasman vs Triton Internal Features

Some quick thoughts

• Triton interior is comfortable and upmarket for a Ute. In isolation its a pleasant place to sit.
• Tasman interior feels more spacious and is more SUV like. It takes things to a higher level
• The wide 25 inch screen for drivers instruments and A/C and central screen is market leading.
• Its a different approach to recent trends that look to mirror a smart phone
• Like all brands the level of interior features grows as you climb the model ladder. These are the two top spec models.
• The under rear seat storage in the Kia is a bonus

Tasman vs Triton Safety Features

The Mitsubishi Triton currently has a five start ANCAP safety rating. The Kia Tasman as at May 2025 hasn’t got a rating yet, but i’m sure it will come in at a five star ANCAP rating.

So for the features that are TBA below for the Tasman. Its because they haven’t released the details yet. They mostly will be there.

Over the last few years Dual Cab Utes have maintained a top safety rating as many buyers demand it.

However there is a difference between constructive safety and intrusive features that have to be turned off every time you start the car. In that regard Mitsubishi Triton is quite good. Its easy to turn off the DMS and LKA.

But Kia has a habit of binging and beeping at the driver and has more features that need turning off in its SUVs. Hopefully they have learned the lesson and  allow an easier way to turn off the intrusive features.

Also the Triton allows the driver to select when they want the adaptive function turned on for cruise control. Kia have allowed that for many years.

Tasman vs Triton Owner benefits, warranty and servicing