Kia New Zealand reveals pricing for all-new ute
Just when you thought there wasn’t enough choices for a ute, Kia New Zealand has announced pricing for one of the most eagerly anticipated new model launches of 2025.
The two newcomers join the 2018-launched 1,156hp Big X 1180 launched in 2018..
Powered by the same Liebherr Stage 5, V12 engine as the flagship model, the Big X 980 and 1080 deliver 979hp and 1,074hp respectively, featuring a modified PowerSplit system which matches available engine power to current requirements at the touch of a button.
In operating conditions where the full engine power is not required, PowerSplit allows the Big X to work in a fuel-saving eco-power mode, while X-Power is selected for situations that require the full power of the engine. The function can also be activated automatically and continuously variably from the various output levels. The optional engine speed management function helps to reduce fuel consumption by automatically lowering the engine speed, as example, when changing trailers.
Otherwise, the Big X 980 and Big X 1080 Sharing much of their technology with the range-topping Big X 1180, the Big X980 and 1080 feature six pre-compression rollers, the chopping drum, OptiMaxx 305 CornConditioner and VariStream system.
The latter comprises a spring-loaded floor beneath the chopping cylinder and a spring-loaded plate behind the crop accelerator which combine to ensure a smooth crop flow through the machine as it comes under crop volumes.
The new models also feature VariLOC; a gearbox inside the pulley that takes drive to the chopping cylinder, allowing drum speed to be reduced from 1,250 to 800rpm, thereby increasing chop lengths by up to 50%.
Looking at other design details, both newcomers can be specified with the optional high-lift cab and XtraPower, the latter allows additional engine power into the machine to be booked online for a limited period. There is an XtraPower boost of 100hp for both models and a 200hp boost available for the Big X 980.
Other details include options of a dual-purpose NIR control sensor which helps to measure and record nutrient levels in grass, maize and whole crop silage as harvest progresses, while both machines are equipped as standard with SmartConnect - a telemetric unit that offers real-time collection and transmission of all machine data.
