Kia Tasman Trims Explained: Differences Between LX, SX, and the Flagship X-Pro 4×4
You’ve seen the bold styling and heard the buzz about Kia’s first-ever bakkie, but now you’re standing in front of the price list wondering what you actually get for the extra cash between the LX, SX, and X-Pro.
The short answer is that the Tasman range is built around a single powerful engine, with the trims differentiating themselves through drivetrain, off-road capability, and luxury features. Here’s exactly what separates them.
One Engine to Rule Them All
Before we dive into the trims, here’s something that makes the Tasman simple: every single model uses the same powertrain. You get Hyundai-Kia’s 2.2-litre Smartstream turbo-diesel engine producing 154 kW and 440 N.m of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission .
So the choice between trims isn’t about power — it’s about where that power goes and what else you get with it.
The LX: The Entry-Level Workhorse
The LX is your starting point, priced from R679,995 in South Africa . It’s the no-nonsense work-focused option.
The biggest difference: The LX is rear-wheel-drive only (4×2) . This is the trim for buyers who primarily use their bakkie on paved roads or for light work duties and don’t need serious off-road capability.
Key features include:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Cloth seat trim
- Dual 12.3-inch digital displays (driver cluster and infotainment)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Automatic LED headlights
- Climate control
- Rearview camera and parking sensors
- Six airbags
The LX has a payload capacity of 1,123 kg — slightly higher than the 4×4 models due to the simpler drivetrain .
The SX: The Mid-Range All-Rounder
Stepping up to the SX costs R879,995 . This is where the Tasman gets serious about off-road ability.
The biggest difference: The SX switches to a 4×4 drivetrain with a dual-range transfer case . You get proper low-range gearing for tough terrain.
Key upgrades over LX:
- 17-inch grey alloy wheels (replacing steel or standard alloys)
- Terrain Mode Select — Snow, Sand, and Mud modes
- Smart Cruise Control with navigation-based functionality
- Highway Driving Assist 2
- Electric folding side mirrors
- Inbuilt satellite navigation
- Front one-touch power windows with safety function
The approach and departure angles for the LX and SX are 28.9 degrees and 25 degrees respectively . It’s capable, but not yet the ultimate off-roader.
The X-Pro: The Flagship Off-Road King
The range-topping X-Pro comes in at R999,995 . This is the model that 4X4 Australia called “a capable, well-rounded package that suits both bush adventures and everyday driving” .
The biggest differences: The X-Pro is purpose-built for serious off-road touring with hardware you won’t find on the lower trims .
Off-road hardware upgrades:
- 32.2-degree approach angle (compared to 28.9 degrees on LX/SX) — a significant improvement for tackling steep obstacles
- 252 mm ground clearance — a 28 mm lift over other models
- Electronic locking rear differential with on/off control
- X-Trek off-road crawl control (like low-speed cruise control for rough terrain)
- Expanded Terrain Modes — adds Rock mode to the Snow, Sand, and Mud found in the SX
- All-terrain tyres on 17-inch alloy wheels
- Underbody fuel tank protection
- Ground View Monitor for spotting obstacles
- No side steps, which improves ground clearance
Luxury and comfort upgrades inside:
- Artificial leather upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Panoramic sunroof
- 8-way power driver and passenger seats with memory function
- Premium Harman Kardon sound system
- Ambient mood lighting
- Column-mounted gear selector (instead of console-mounted) with paddle shifters
- Sliding and reclining rear seats
The X-Pro’s payload is 1,013 kg — slightly less than the LX due to the heavier 4×4 hardware, but still well over a tonne .
Off-Road Angles and Wading Depth Comparison
| Feature | LX | SX | X-Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 28.9° | 28.9° | 32.2° |
| Departure Angle | 25° | 25° | 26.2° |
| Ground Clearance | ~224 mm | ~224 mm | 252 mm |
| Water Wading Depth | 800 mm | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Terrain Modes | Limited | Snow/Sand/Mud | Snow/Sand/Mud/Rock |
All Tasman models share an impressive 800 mm water-wading depth and the same 3,500 kg braked towing capacity .
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | LX | SX | X-Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (ZAR) | R679,995 | R879,995 | R999,995 |
| Drivetrain | 4×2 (RWD) | 4×4 | 4×4 |
| Rear Diff Lock | No | No | Yes (electronic, selectable) |
| X-Trek Crawl Control | No | No | Yes |
| Approach Angle | 28.9° | 28.9° | 32.2° |
| Seat Trim | Cloth | Cloth | Artificial leather |
| Heated/Ventilated Seats | No | No | Yes |
| Sunroof | No | No | Yes |
| All-Terrain Tyres | No | No | Yes |
| Payload | 1,123 kg | ~1,008 kg | 1,013 kg |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose the LX if:
- You mostly drive on paved roads or farms
- You don’t need 4×4 capability
- You want the maximum payload for work duties
- The lower price is your priority
Choose the SX if:
- You need proper 4×4 capability with low range
- You want off-road drive modes
- You occasionally tackle gravel, mud, or sand
- You want a balance of capability and value
Choose the X-Pro if:
- Off-roading is a serious hobby, not just an occasional need
- You want the best approach angles and ground clearance
- You need the locking rear diff for tough terrain
- You want luxury features like ventilated seats and a sunroof
- You’re building an overlanding or touring vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all Kia Tasman models available with 4×4?
A: No. The LX is rear-wheel-drive only (4×2). The SX and X-Pro come with 4×4 as standard .
Q: What engine does the Kia Tasman have?
A: All Tasman models use the same 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder producing 154 kW and 440 N.m of torque .
Q: Can the LX be upgraded to 4×4?
A: No, the 4×2 drivetrain is fixed on the LX. You need to step up to the SX or X-Pro for 4×4 .
Q: What’s the benefit of the X-Pro’s X-Trek mode?
A: X-Trek is like a low-speed cruise control for off-road driving. It lets you tackle rough terrain at a steady, controlled crawl without needing to modulate the throttle .
Q: Do I need the X-Pro for serious off-roading?
A: For serious off-road touring, the X-Pro’s locking rear diff, better angles, and crawl control make a significant difference. The SX is capable, but the X-Pro is purpose-built for tough terrain .
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