Kia’s Tasman bakkie arrives in South Africa
Kia has taken a bold step into one of South Africa’s most competitive automotive segments with the launch of the Tasman, its first-ever double cab bakkie.
- Product News
- 9 April 2026
OMODA South Africa held an exclusive soirée to preview its upcoming C9 luxury flagship model, giving high-profile guests a taste of this eagerly anticipated newcomer’s distinctly upmarket character.
Held at Langhams Lifestyle Estate in Fourways, Johannesburg, the specially curated evening event was held in collaboration with Absa, OMODA’s vehicle-finance alliance partner and one of Africa’s largest diversified financial services groups.
Guests included A-list celebrities such as Khosi Nkosi, Dr Khanyile, Gogo Skhotheni, Khosi Twala and Brian Temba, to name but a few. In addition, Absa representatives, members of the media and government officials were in attendance, along with sought-after visual artist, Ramarutha Makoba.
Invited guests had the opportunity to “leave their mark” on a special canvas, which Makoba will soon transform into a one-of-a-kind work of art. The final artistic piece will be revealed at the official launch of the OMODA C9 in October 2024, before being auctioned off for charity.
“Considering that the new C9 is itself a true masterpiece of automotive design, our collaboration with an artist of Ramarutha’s stature is fitting. Of course, this initiative will also allow OMODA to give back to the community, with the proceeds of the artwork auction to be donated to a charity that will be announced at the C9’s launch,” says Shannon Gahagan, National Brand and Marketing Manager for OMODA & JAECOO South Africa.
Charl Potgieter, Managing Executive at Absa Vehicle and Asset Finance, added that the evening’s events showcased the values that underscore Absa’s partnership with OMODA and JAECOO Finance, an Absa product, is centred on helping customers realise their dreams of vehicle ownership but extends beyond vehicle finance.
“Strengthening Absa’s position as the bank of choice in the automotive industry, our partnership with OMODA is a truly multifaceted one, as this evening’s event has demonstrated. We are delighted that our collaboration with OMODA is centred on making a meaningful contribution to the local economy, as we drive innovation and accessibility in South Africa’s fast-paced automotive financing sector,” says Charl.
Kia has taken a bold step into one of South Africa’s most competitive automotive segments with the launch of the Tasman, its first-ever double cab bakkie.
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