Selecting Terrain Mode

Terrain Mode optimizes driving performance through 4WD modes depending on terrain conditions (snow, mud, sand, etc.), motor, reducer, and integrated brake control.

2026 Kia Tasman Terrain Mode button image. The button at the bottom center of the steering wheel is highlighted in cyan. A detailed view shows the 'TERRAIN MODE' button with a red arrow pointing upwards. Explains the function of pressing the button to switch to Terrain Mode.
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Operation

  • Press the TERRAIN MODE button to switch from DRIVE MODE to TERRAIN MODE.

  • Press the TERRAIN MODE button again to select SNOW/MUD/SAND/ROCK (if equipped) mode.

  • Press DRIVE MODE button again to return to DRIVE MODE.

* : if equipped

Terrain Mode

Description

SNOW

SNOW mode is used to ensure a stable start by appropriately distributing the vehicle's traction force and to ensure safe driving by preventing wheel slippage on snowy or slippery roads.

MUD

MUD mode is used to ensure safe driving by appropriately distributing the vehicle's traction force when driving on muddy, unpaved, or rough roads, as it secures enough traction force for the initial start.

SAND

SAND mode is used to ensure safe driving by appropriately distributing the vehicle's traction force when driving on soft and dry sandy roads, gravel, or unpaved roads.

ROCK*

ROCK mode is used to ensure safe driving by appropriately distributing the vehicle's traction force when driving on rocky and rough mountainous terrain.
CAUTION

  • Maintain DRIVE MODE when driving on roads in normal conditions. Driving in TERRAIN MODE on normal roads (especially when cornering) may damage the 4WD system and cause mechanical vibration or noise.

    However, when driving in TERRAIN MODE on normal roads (especially when cornering), a driver may find minor mechanical vibration or noise, which is an extremely normal phenomenon, not a malfunction. When TERRAIN MODE is deactivated, such noise or vibration will be immediately gone.

  • In addition, when TERRAIN MODE is deactivated, it can lead to little shocks. However, this is not a malfunction, but a normal phenomenon that lasts until the traction force on the front and rear wheels of the vehicle are released.

  • When driving in TERRAIN MODE, it can lead to little shocks, minor mechanical vibration or noise. It is not a malfunction, but a phenomenon that occurs when shifting between SNOW, MUD, SAND, and DRIVE MODE depending on changes in driving conditions.

NOTE

  • When TERRAIN MODE is activated, actual mode shifting may be delayed even if the driving surface changes.

  • After selecting TERRAIN MODE, the mode will not change when reversing or driving slowly at speeds below approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).

  • When turning off the engine in TERRAIN MODE and restarting it, the mode will switch to DRIVE MODE.

  • If you don't select TERRAIN MODE within approximately 4 seconds, it will switch back to the DRIVE MODE.