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Apple has been flirting with ultra-thin iPhones for years, but the iPhone Air is the first time the company has truly delivered on that promise in a meaningful way. At just 5.6mm thick, powered by the new A19 Pro chip, and positioned between the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro, the Air feels less like a mere variant and more like Apple creating a whole new segment in the lineup. It’s light, sleek, and very deliberate in how it sets itself apart from the rest of the family.
Of course, comparisons didn’t take long to surface. Some people immediately wondered if the Air was now the thinnest phone in the world — and the answer is still no. That record still belongs to Huawei’s tri-fold Mate XT Ultimate, which achieves an almost unbelievable 3.6mm thickness when fully unfolded. However, that device benefits from spreading components across multiple panels. Apple had to design within the constraints of a single, rigid slab of glass and metal.
That challenge is what makes the iPhone Air intriguing. To hit this thinness without sacrificing performance, Apple had to rethink parts of the internal layout that haven’t changed in years. Components were reshaped, shifted, or merged; material choices became more strategic; and some long-standing design beliefs were completely reevaluated.
Naturally, the world reacted as it always does — half calling it a bold glimpse at where smartphones are headed, the other half insisting they made the right choice by sticking with Samsung this time. No surprise there.
What’s worth exploring is how Apple actually engineered this. Building a 5.6mm flagship isn’t just a matter of ‘shrinking it and shipping it.’ There’s real engineering behind this silhouette — and a few clever sacrifices that made it possible.
Here’s what went into creating the thinnest iPhone Apple has ever released.
iPhone Air | Image: Apple
The All-New Redesigned iPhone
The first thing you might notice on the iPhone Air is the camera bump — or “camera plateau,” as Apple likes to call it. Typically, I’m not a fan of these protruding islands. They’ve always felt like engineering compromises disguised as design choices. On a Pro device, that’s okay. On a phone designed for daily use? The bumps often get in the way more than they help. But the iPhone Air is a rare exception where the bump truly justifies itself, because it’s not merely housing a lens — it’s housing the phone’s essential hardware.
Instead of spreading components evenly across the entire chassis like most smartphones, Apple concentrated much of the iPhone Air’s internal components into the camera bump. The goal was to free up as much space as possible inside the main body so the Air could remain ultra-thin while still leaving room for a functional battery.
It’s the same thought when Apple used when shrinking down the MacBook’s internals to create the original MacBook Air back in 2008 — take the essential components, miniaturise them, and arrange them efficiently. This redesign also explains why the Air currently comes with just a single camera for now. Fitting a second lens would require shrinking the internals even further, something Apple might try in a future model.
The iPhone Air’s plate is sculpted to fit the custom cameras, speaker, and Apple silicon, dedicating more space to the battery.| Image: Apple
Inside, you’ll find the compact structure that lives on the new silicon. The A19 Pro powers the iPhone Air — a slightly simplified version of the chip in the 17 Pro models — along with Apple’s updated C1X modem and the all-new N1 networking chip. The C1X is an evolution of Apple’s first in-house modem, which debuted in the iPhone 16e, with Apple claiming significant improvements in efficiency and speed. The bigger upgrade is the N1, which introduces Bluetooth 6, Wi-Fi 7, and Thread support, making the Air more future-proof and more power-efficient for everyday use.
But as an iPhone user myself, I can’t help but think about its thermal performance, considering it will be packed into this hardware with such a thin frame, and it makes me wonder how it will hold up with heat during heavy workloads. But until I get a hold of one and see it in real-world conditions, I’ll let the iPhone do the talking.
Iphone Air’s Battery | Image: Apple
iPhone Air’s Battery
Now, this is where things become interesting, and everyone is curious about the iPhone Air’s battery. The iPhone Air features a 3,149mAh battery, which is notably small compared to the rest of Apple’s lineup. For perspective, the 6.1-inch iPhone 16e has a 4,005mAh cell, and the standard iPhone 17 comes with a 3,692mAh battery. On paper, the Air appears underpowered — a battery of this size in such a slim phone doesn’t initially inspire confidence.
But the Air’s secret isn’t battery size; it’s efficiency. Thanks to the combined work of the A19 Pro chip, the new C1X modem, and the N1 networking chip, the phone manages to stretch its smaller battery surprisingly far. Apple claims the Air can reach 27 hours of video playback, which actually exceeds the 16e despite the Air having a significantly smaller battery. That’s a pretty bold statement for a device built around extreme thinness.
Here’s the good news: if you want even more battery life, Apple has its usual solution—the iPhone Air MagSafe Battery that snaps onto the back of the phone. With that added, the Air jumps to 40 hours of video playback, surpassing even the 17 Pro Max and its massive 5,088mAh battery. You’ll need to pay extra for the accessory, but the option is available for users seeking multi-day stamina at USD $99.
Most people look for battery improvements when upgrading their phone, and in a roundabout way, Apple has delivered them here. The raw capacity might not impress, but the gains from the C1X and N1 chips suggest a bigger trend — the kind of smart power management that could benefit every model in the iPhone 18 lineup. If Apple can bring these efficiencies to its larger, more capable devices, we could see serious battery advancements next year.
iPhone Air is locked to eSim | Image: Apple
No SIM Card Tray?
When aiming for extreme thickness, obviously, there’s going to be something missing for sure, and one of them is the complete removal of the physical SIM card tray. The iPhone Air is the first in the lineup to operate exclusively on eSIM, with no fallback option. Apple states that removing the tray was necessary to free up space inside the 5.6mm frame — and on a device this thin, every tiny component matters.
The change sounds simple on paper, but it’s a real challenge for anyone using an older device that still relies on a physical SIM. Not all carriers worldwide support eSIM, and even in areas where it’s offered, the traditional method of removing your SIM and inserting it into a new phone remains the fastest way to get started. Anyone who frequently switches devices knows how easy that used to be, especially for those who travel quite often.
With eSIM, the process becomes a bit more complex. Transferring to a new phone requires an internet connection, carrier approval, and a few extra setup steps. It works, and it’s improving with each generation, but it’s not as instant or widespread as the physical card we’ve used for years.
I believe that, in the long run, this will be the future for all smartphones, with Apple potentially leading the industry towards a time when physical SIMs no longer exist — the iPhone Air could very well be the turning point — but for now, it feels a bit like when Apple removed the headphone jack. The move makes sense from an engineering perspective, yet it still hurts for users who appreciated the simplicity of swapping cards in seconds.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
Our team of editors and experts thoughtfully chooses each product. If you decide to buy through one of our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. Want to know how we test products? Click here for more details.
Pricing for the KIA Tasman begins at AUD $42,990 (approximately USD $29,600) for the base S 4×2 model, with the range reaching up to AUD $74,990 (around USD $51,700) for the off-road-oriented X-Pro 4×4.
Pre-orders for the Tasman are now available, with the first vehicles expected to arrive in showrooms starting in July.
The Dual Cab Chassis version is set to arrive roughly a month after the initial release.
A single cab chassis version has also been confirmed, with availability scheduled for later in 2025.
Together, the staged rollout highlights Kia’s long-term plan to develop a comprehensive ute platform rather than a single model.
The Tasman’s journey started with a high-profile global debut late last year, where the ute was first shown to the public at a major international motor show, before being fully unveiled for Australian audiences more recently. That moment marked an important milestone for KIA, as the Tasman represents the brand’s first serious step into the lifestyle ute category, a space long dominated locally by familiar names like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux. Rather than easing into the segment cautiously, KIA has been clear that it sees Australia as a key growth market and views the Tasman as a foundational product rather than a side project.
Explaining the vision behind the project, KIA president and CEO Ho Sung Song said that the Tasman was designed with a specific purpose. “Kia’s first-ever pickup truck was created from the ground up to change the market and respond to the rising popularity of lifestyle-oriented trucks with advanced features,” he stated. Song also described the Tasman as a model that intentionally avoids following existing formulas, noting that it “follows its own path – not the competition,” while blending traditional pickup strengths with capability, practicality, and features meant to challenge conventional expectations in the segment.
If KIA’s goal was to move away from traditional ute styling, the Tasman has certainly achieved it. Since its debut, the pickup’s exterior design has sparked strong reactions online, with its squared-off proportions, bold detailing, and confident stance drawing both curiosity and debate. The discussion has only grown with the Tasman now available in a desert camo finish, which can only mean it’s going to be a rugged, purpose-built vehicle designed to stand out.
2026 Kia Tasman | Image: Kia Australia
What Powers the Kia Tasman?
At launch, the KIA Tasman uses a familiar and proven setup, with Australian-spec models powered by a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine that has already earned a strong reputation for durability and daily usability. Delivering 154kW of power and 440Nm of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Tasman doesn’t focus on headline figures but instead focusing on consistent performance and real-world capability.
Kia Tasman Key Specifications:
2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 154kW & 440Nm of torque
Braked towing capacity of up to 3,500kg, with support for lighter unbraked loads
Payload ratings exceeding 1,000kg across most variants
Integrated Trailer Brake Control and a dedicated Towing Mode to assist under heavy load
Gross Vehicle Mass of 3,250kg and Gross Combination Mass of 6,200kg
Now, those figures place the Tasman slightly behind higher-output versions of the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux in terms of peak power and torque. However, KIA has clearly prioritised balanced performance over raw numbers, tuning the drivetrain for predictability and control rather than aggressive delivery, which better suits towing, long-distance driving, and daily work duties.
2026 Kia Tasman | Image: Kia Australia
Where the Tasman begins to stand out is in its off-road engineering. By mounting the air intake high inside the front fender, Kia has enabled all variants to handle water crossings of up to 800mm at low speeds, a feature that makes it comparable to established segment leaders. Supporting this are waterproof electrical connectors used in key interior areas, reinforcing the Tasman’s status as a ute built for demanding environments rather than occasional off-road adventures.
Drive modes further influence how the Tasman performs across various conditions, with Eco, Smart, and Sport available throughout the range, while the off-road-oriented X-Pro variant gains an extra Rock mode. That version also benefits from a rear electronic locking differential and KIA’s X-Trek system, which acts as a low-speed off-road cruise control, helping the vehicle maintain steady progress over rough terrain. Paired with a payload capacity of over one tonne, the Tasman presents a strong case as a credible alternative to the Ranger and HiLux, especially for buyers looking for practical capability and modern engineering.
2026 Kia Tasman | Image: Kia Australia
Kia Tasman Exterior Design
From its first public appearance, the KIA Tasman made it clear that playing it safe was never part of the plan. While the overall proportions still match what buyers expect from a modern ute—an upright stance, a bold grille, and a purposeful silhouette—the finer details tell a different story. The front-end design, in particular, departs from typical segment norms, featuring a unique lighting layout and face design that show Kia’s intention to challenge longstanding conventions in the pickup market.
The brand’s signature tiger-nose grille has been redesigned with a new pattern, paired with vertically stacked daytime running lights that give the Tasman a strong and instantly recognizable presence. Boxy surfaces and robust detailing run through the rest of the body, reinforcing its rugged character while adopting a more architectural design language. It’s a look that has sparked debate from the start, but one that starts to make more sense when seen through the lens of KIA’s broader design approach and its goal to carve out a clear point of difference.
Created especially for explorers, adventurers and people who like to get things done, the Kia Tasman is designed to serve as a dependable companion in every situation,” — Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design, explains.
Practically, that purpose is seen in the Tasman’s size and usability. The dual-cab model measures 5,410mm long, 1,930mm wide, and has a 3,270mm wheelbase, while the load bed provides ample space and a cargo volume over 1,100 litres, ensuring the ute offers real-world functionality along with its bold look.
Kia Tasman Interior | Image: Kia Australia
Kia Tasman Interior Design
Step inside the Kia Tasman and the tone shifts noticeably, with the cabin adopting a more refined and approachable style compared to the bold exterior. The layout combines familiar Kia design cues with new elements created specifically for the Tasman, resulting in an interior that feels modern without being overstyled. A wide steering wheel anchors the driving position, while distinctive honeycomb-style air vents and a layered digital layout create a tech-forward atmosphere that still prioritises clarity and ease of use. The dashboard is dominated by an expansive screen setup that stretches across the cabin, reinforcing the Tasman’s focus on both driver engagement and shared usability.
Kia Tasman Interior Highlights:
Dual 12.3-inch digital displays paired with a 5-inch climate control screen
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included as standard
Kia Connect system with over-the-air updates & remote vehicle functions
Segment-first folding centre console table available on X-Line & X-Pro variants
Rear seats that slide & recline, with additional under-seat storage
Kia Tasman Interior | Image: Kia Australia
Kia Tasman Interior | Image: Kia Australia
Kia Tasman Interior | Image: Kia Australia
Kia Tasman Interior | Image: Kia Australia
Kia Tasman Interior | Image: Kia Australia
Kia Tasman Interior | Image: Kia Australia
Practicality plays a major role in interior design, with thoughtful storage solutions integrated throughout the cabin. Dual wireless charging pads, hidden storage compartments, and a clever mini table made for outdoor use highlight Kia’s focus on everyday practicality. Rear passengers are well cared for, with spacious legroom that places the Tasman towards the higher end of the segment, while sustainability is also featured through the use of recycled materials in areas such as the carpeting. Interior colour options range from simple black-and-grey combinations to richer tones like espresso brown-and-deep green, with higher-spec models offering more expressive two-tone finishes.
Technology and equipment complete the cabin experience, with smartphone integration supported alongside an optional premium audio system for those seeking a more immersive sound setup. Off-road-focused features such as a ground-view camera system boost confidence when navigating uneven terrain, while market-specific equipment improves everyday usability through details like corner steps, an illuminated load bed, and available power outlets and cargo solutions. Overall, the Tasman’s interior feels designed not just to impress at first glance but to remain functional and comfortable through workdays, long drives, and outdoor adventures alike.
2026 Kia Tasman | Image: Kia Australia
Kia Tasman Pricing & Availability
Now, if you ask us about the Kia Tasman, there’s no better place for it than Australia, which is at the centre of Kia’s ambitions for the Tasman. That focus is reflected in how the ute has been engineered, specified, and priced for local buyers. Developed with direct input from Australian engineers, the Tasman has been shaped to meet local conditions and expectations, from worksite demands to weekend adventures. Kia aims to compete with segment leaders like the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger on value, versatility, and features.
The Tasman lineup is designed to cover a wide range of buyer needs, starting with the entry-level S 4×2 and extending to the off-road-oriented X-Pro 4×4, which is positioned at the top of the lineup. This diverse selection allows buyers to choose between work-centric configurations, lifestyle-focused trims, and more rugged versions without being forced into unnecessary upgrades.
Below is the full breakdown of the Kia Tasman range and pricing:
S Trim from AUD$42,990 – USD $29,600 plus on-roads:
S 4×2 – AUD $42,990 – USD $29,600
S 4×2 (Payload <1,000kg) – AUD $42,990 – USD $29,600
Together, this wide-ranging lineup allows the Tasman to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from those needing a straightforward work ute to drivers looking for a more refined lifestyle vehicle with added off-road capability. The flexibility in configuration, combined with consistent pricing across visual and payload variations, makes it easier for buyers to focus on how they plan to use the vehicle rather than navigating complex option structures.
With availability now expanding across the range, KIA is positioning the Tasman as a long-term competitor rather than a short-lived entry, using strong local development and clear trim differentiation to build momentum in a segment where loyalty runs deep. As electrified variants continue to be discussed within the industry, the current diesel lineup lays the groundwork for a broader Tasman family in the years ahead.
Complete List of Specifications for the Kia Tasman
All Models Have Shared Features:
The KIA Tasman is built as a well-rounded ute, combining reliable mechanics with modern technology and useful features throughout the lineup. Its turbo-diesel engine, strong towing ability, off-road equipment, interior tech, and adaptable body styles show Kia’s aim to compete strongly in one of Australia’s toughest vehicle segments.
Elias Albay is the Founder and Director of Many Men Magazine, a Toronto-based digital publication dedicated to promoting modern masculinity through style, culture, and self-improvement. What started as a personal turning point became a purposeful platform. — born from Elias’ desire to create something meaningful after completing his studies and finding no career path that truly matched his ambitions. With a background in Civil Engineering from York University and experience in Commercial Flight Operations at CAE, he applied skills, and resilience from both fields to forge a new path.
