PARAMARIBO – Suriname’s pickup truck market has welcomed a new contender. Rudisa Motors officially launched the KIA Tasman on Friday, the automaker’s first-ever pickup truck.
According to the importer, the Tasman was developed for demanding working conditions without compromising comfort, safety, and modern technology.
During the launch, Andrew Hoitsema, Vice President of Automotive Business at the Rudisa Group, emphasized that bringing the Tasman to Suriname was a deliberate decision, given the country’s strong demand for pickup trucks. “The KIA Tasman is a true workhorse capable of performing under all conditions. At the same time, it brings the luxury, space, and technology of a modern SUV to the rugged pickup segment”, Hoitsema said.
The new pickup features a robust chassis, a payload capacity of more than 1,100 kilograms, and a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms. According to Rudisa Motors, this makes the Tasman suitable not only for heavy-duty work but also for recreational use. “It works hard during the week and is ready for adventure on the weekend,” Hoitsema said.
KIA is also placing strong emphasis on the vehicle’s equipment and features. The Tasman comes standard with LED lighting, 18-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, and heated, electrically folding side mirrors. Inside, comfort is enhanced by leather-look upholstery, electrically adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch infotainment system with navigation, a wireless phone charger, and keyless entry and start.
Safety is another key feature. The pickup is equipped with an extensive package of driver-assistance systems, including blind-spot assistance, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go, automatic emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and multiple airbags.
According to Rudisa Motors, the KIA Tasman stands out particularly for its exceptionally spacious interior, high payload capacity, and versatility. The new pickup is therefore positioned as a complete combination of power, comfort, and functionality for both commercial and private users. With the launch of the Tasman, KIA is further expanding its lineup in Suriname and is making a clear push into one of the most competitive segments of the local automotive market.
