When people look at the likes of a Kia K2500, they’re looking at a reliable, no-nonsense work truck that can get the job done.

But over in its homeland of South Korea (where it’s known as the Bongo III), the automaker has spiffed it up with a few luxury features for its 2024 update.

The exterior changes are minimal apart from a new front bumper, headlights, and graphics on the side. The power-folding side mirrors now have turn-signal repeaters.

The changes inside are a bit more dramatic.

The most jarring change is the addition of a 10.25-inch widescreen infotainment (or eight-inch display on lower trims), presumably with smartphone integration that’s tacked right on top of the dashboard.

It also benefits from a nicer gauge cluster with a 3.5-inch multi-info display, and the addition of tweeters to the sound system for better audio.

Higher trims have the option of black or brown leatherette upholstery, with niceties such as a ventilated driver’s seat, automatic climate control, a push-start ignition with a smart key entry system, and defroster lines on the rear glass.

Chrome accents have been added to the door handles and the parking brake lever, alongside fire extinguishers, which are standard.

It also comes with a suite of safety systems such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning and assist, parking sensors with a backup camera, a locking differential, two airbags, and stability control.

The sole powerplant choice is an LPG-powered 2.5-liter engine, but it now has the option of an automatic transmission aside from the manual.

The power figures are 157hp and 294Nm, with the manual transmission having a slightly lower output (136hp and 255Nm).

Interestingly, there is also an electric version that has a single electric motor (2WD) paired with a 58.8kWh battery.

Output is 181hp with 395Nm, and the range is up to 211km on a single charge. It also supports 100kW fast charging, which can bring a flat battery from 10% up to 80% in just 47 minutes.

It also gets paddle shifters for regenerative braking, an electronic parking brake with auto hold, and electric power steering.

Of course, we’re optimistic that Kia Philippines will bring these changes to our local utilitarian K2500s, but it would also be a pleasant surprise to see the electric version introduced to our market.