Foton’s back in Australia. Remember the last time? Let’s just say this isn’t their first rodeo down under. Will they conquer the Outback this time, or face another dust storm of disappointment?
The Foton Tunland. Its name echoes with whispers of a bygone era in the Australian automotive landscape. Launched in 2012, it was a vehicle that inspired debate, a conversation starter at the local servo. Depending on whom you cornered – a fleet manager counting pennies or a weekend warrior craving adventure – opinions diverged wildly. It wasn’t luxury, it wasn’t finesse, but beneath its utilitarian skin beat the reliable heart of a Cummins diesel, winning over the pragmatic and the adventurous alike. A rugged testament to value, the Tunland remains a polarizing, yet undeniably memorable, chapter in ute history.
Regardless, the Foton Tunland was quietly the butt of industry jokes after it arrived. And less quietly after it left.
Forget crowded showrooms! Foton is back in Australia, ditching the passenger car game and setting its sights on a different kind of conquest: the Aussie commercial vehicle market. With a wave of new automotive brands hitting our shores and a growing appetite for surprisingly capable Chinese utes, Foton’s return is timed to perfection, promising a workhorse ready to rumble.
Forget everything you thought you knew about Foton. This isn’t some lukewarm comeback attempt. This is Foton reborn, a ground-up revolution on wheels, bearing absolutely no trace of its past.
Inchcape Automotive, the Australian distributor already steering the success of Peugeot, Deepal, and Subaru, now adds Foton utes to their fleet. With a proven track record and intimate knowledge of Aussie drivers, you can bet they know exactly what makes our hearts rev when it comes to utility vehicles.
The Tunland’s newest dual-cab 4×4 pickups have arrived! Meet the V7 and V9 – twin titans of the road. While these beasts share the Tunland DNA, subtle differences separate them. Which one reigns supreme for you? Uncover the key distinctions now!
The V7 and V9 sport radically different faces, almost as if born from rival truck dynasties. The V7’s blunt, Ford F-Series-esque grille suggests rugged utility, while the V9’s design bears a striking resemblance to the bold, confident stance of a Ram 1500.
The V9 also sports black bolt-on wheel-arches, ala Holden Torana SLR5000.
While the V7 might initially masquerade as its bigger sibling – or at least, that’s the impression it gives me – don’t be fooled. Underneath the surface, both models are twins, born from the same dual-cab ute chassis, right down to the shared taillights and a virtually identical interior.
The Tunland isn’t your average dual-cab ute. Think of it as the love child of a Ford Ranger and a beefy Ford F-150 – bigger than one, but not quite the beast of the other.
The V7 distinguishes itself: its leaf-spring rear suspension is built to bear the brunt of heavier loads. The V9, however, dances to a different tune, boasting a multi-link, coil-sprung rear that elevates ride comfort and sharpens handling, making every journey a smooth and responsive experience.
So, V7 is work, V9 is play, according to Foton.
Beyond that initial offering, the lineup escalates through three compelling tiers. First, the versatile V7-C, available in both agile 4×2 and sure-footed 4×4 configurations. Next, the V9-L 4×4 elevates the experience with enhanced features. Finally, reigning supreme, the V9-S 4×4 stands as the ultimate expression of performance and luxury.
Twenty-four hours. That’s all we had to tame the new Tunland range. We threw everything at it: the urban jungle, soul-crushing traffic, and endless highways. But that was just the warm-up. We then unleashed it on sleepy suburban streets, wrestled it through rugged country landscapes, and carved our way up serpentine mountain passes. Finally, we dared to test its true mettle on unforgiving gravel tracks and brutal four-wheel drive trails deep within the Victorian High Country.
Hold onto your hats, folks, because this may just be the biggest surprise of 2025.
How much does the Foton Tunland cost?
Buckle up! The all-new 2026 Foton Tunland is hitting Aussie roads with a price tag that’ll make you look twice. Starting at a cool $39,990 and topping out at $49,990 (before on-road costs), the Tunland is ready to rumble. Choose from four exciting model grades, launching soon!
| Model | Price before on-road costs | | — | — | | 2026 Foton Tunland V7-C 4×2 | $39,990 | | 2026 Foton Tunland V7-C 4×4 | $42,990 | | 2026 Foton Tunland V9-L 4×4 | $45,990 | | 2026 Foton Tunland V9-S 4×4 | $49,990 |
To see how the Foton Tunland lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
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What is the Foton Tunland like on the inside?
Budget automakers have mastered the art of the illusion. They craft interiors that dazzle in press photos, knowing full well the spell will break the moment you touch the cheap plastic and flimsy trim. It’s a gamble: Can they fool you long enough to drive off the lot before the cost-cutting whispers begin?
That isn’t the case with the Foton Tunland.
This cabin isn’t just impressive; it’s a masterclass in design and construction. From the ingenious layout to the meticulously chosen materials and flawless build quality, it exudes excellence. This car isn’t simply assembled; it’s screwed together with a level of precision that’s remarkable atanyprice.
Sink into a cabin where luxury whispers, not shouts. Imagine supple, faux-leather embraced by contrasting stitching, a detail that elevates the ordinary. Brushed aluminum dances with light, while thoughtfully designed plastic trims offer both beauty and resilience. The multimedia screen, your portal to seamless wireless Apple CarPlay, lives in harmony with tactile buttons, providing instant command over your digital world. Silence the distractions, amplify the enjoyment – all at your fingertips.
I found the ergonomics to be particularly good, taking just seconds to find my preferred seating and steering positions.
Stretch out and savor the ride. The Tunland’s expansive cabin gifts you with limousine-like legroom up front, while the rear comfortably accommodates a trio of adults without a knee-crunch in sight.
Ditched the entourage? Transform your back seat into a cavernous cargo bay! Flip up the 60/40-split rear bench and behold: a flat, fridge-friendly floor. Now, that 12-volt cooler is just an arm’s reach away – road trip refreshments, unlocked.
Sinking into the Tunland’s front seat was like being welcomed by a generously sized armchair perfectly molded for my, shall we say, ‘substantial’ frame. Let’s just say, both the truck and I appreciate ample proportions, and these seats delivered.
While the front seats offer a commanding view, both the V7’s manual and V9’s electric versions lean towards the firm side. After an hour as co-pilot, my passenger confessed to the pins-and-needles tango in their legs. This aging back also yearns for more lumbar love; sadly, that blissful support is reserved exclusively for V9-L and V9-S riders.
I wouldn’t go so far as saying these seats are uncomfortable, but there’s definitely scope for improvement.
A subtle discord marred the otherwise harmonious V7 experience: a persistent, yet faint rattle tickling the driver’s side door, like a mischievous sprite trapped within the window mechanism – likely a dislodged clip, whispering its discontent.
The steering wheel? A perfectly sculpted command center. Its size feels custom-made, cradling your hands with confidence. The design is pure artistry, a visual feast that elevates the entire cockpit. But it’s not just about looks; a galaxy of intuitively placed shortcut buttons puts control at your fingertips. And for those moments when you crave a more visceral connection, the paddle shifters lie in wait, ready to unleash a symphony of gear changes with a flick of your fingers.
Buyers only get dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a wireless smartphone charger from the V9-L and above.
Craving the ultimate in-car pampering? Think breezy ventilated front seats, toasty heated rear seats, and a sprawling panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with light. Hold onto your hat, because all that glorious luxury comes standard on the V9-S. The best part? Even loaded to the gills, you’re still cruising under the $50,000 mark.
The infotainment system tests your patience more than it entertains. Apple CarPlay saunters to life at its own glacial pace, leaving you drumming your fingers and questioning your life choices. Forget about a quick tap – the virtual buttons demand laser-like precision, especially when switching steering modes. Trying to navigate this system on anything less than a perfectly smooth surface is an exercise in futility, turning a simple drive into a frustrating game of digital whack-a-mole.
The lack of standard DAB+ digital radio stings, leaving young tradies stranded with their smartphones, forced to stream Triple M Country rather than cranking it up on a proper digital radio.
| Dimensions | Foton Tunland V7 | Foton Tunland V9 | | — | — | — | |Length| 5617mm | 5617mm | |Width| 2000mm | 2090mm | |Height| 1910mm | 1955mm | |Wheelbase| 3355mm | 3355mm | |Tub| 1577x1650x530mm | 1577x1650x530mm |
To see how the Foton Tunland lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
Beneath the Tunland’s hood lies a robust heart: a 2.0-liter ‘Aucan’ turbo-diesel, forged in collaboration with Cummins. This powerhouse, augmented by 48-volt mild-hybrid tech for enhanced efficiency, seamlessly connects to a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth, responsive power.
| Specifications | Foton Tunland | | — | — | |Engine| 2.0L turbo-diesel 4cyl with 48V mild-hybrid system | |Power| 120kW @ 3600rpm | |Torque| 450Nm @ 1500-2400rpm | |Transmission| 8-speed auto | |Drive type| Rear- or four-wheel drive | |Fuel economy (claimed)| 8.0L/100km | |CO2 emissions (claimed)| 211g/km | |Fuel tank| 76L | |Weight| 2190-2315kg | |Payload| 995-1115kg | |Braked towing capacity| 3500kg | |Gross vehicle mass (GVM)| 3305-3335kg | |Gross combination mass (GCM)| 6805-6835kg |
Aucan engines aren’t just built to last; they’re forged for endurance. Rigorously tested with ‘B10’ fuel up to a staggering 500,000 kilometers, the brand confidently projects that over 90% of these powerhouses will effortlessly surpass that milestone. Think of it: a half-million kilometers of relentless performance, and that’s just thebeginning.
To see how the Foton Tunland lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
How does the Foton Tunland drive?
While the Tunland boasted considerable size, it never felt like a behemoth on the streets. Navigating tight spots remained surprisingly manageable, and piloting it felt intuitive, not intimidating.
In fact, I’ve driven smaller dual-cab utes that feel more intimidating on the road than the Foton ever does.
The difference isn’t black and white, but hopping from a V7 to a V9? You’ll feel it in your spine – a distinct shift in the ride.
Empty, the V7 bounced like a caffeinated kangaroo. But load a few hundred kilos into the tray, and suddenly it transformed. The harsh ride mellowed, swapping jarring jolts for a surprisingly smooth gait – a testament to the age-old leaf-spring design finally finding its happy place.
"The V7’s ride leans towards firm; larger road imperfections make their presence known. Yet, the experience remains tolerable, a testament to its inherent capabilities, likely enhanced by the Tunland’s extended wheelbase."
Launching a ute on the Black Spur and Reefton Spur? That takes guts. These roads, a rollercoaster of tight corners carved into the hills near Melbourne, would expose any weakness. Yet, the Tunland surprised. It danced through the bends with unexpected agility, its steering a sweet spot between effortless control and genuine road feel.
Frankly, it was the steering that continually impressed me, each time I jumped back behind the wheel.
But then came the Black Spur. "For science," I told myself, twisting the throttle of the unloaded V7. Twelve times, the front suspension screamed in protest, a metallic clang echoing through the trees. It sounded like the front springs, after being compressed in a tight corner, were violently snapping back into place, announcing their release with a resoundingbang.
Despite a few raised eyebrows, the Foton continued to perform well and nothing seemed broken.
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Settle into the V9, and the road melts away. Its sophisticated multi-link coil-spring rear suspension transforms mundane commutes into silken glides.
Foton describes it as offering SUV-levels of comfort, which is something close to the truth.
The car’s ADAS was a silent guardian. It never devolved into a cacophony of beeps or a flashing light show, letting me drive in peace.
Every model is shod with the same rugged 265/70R18 Giti 4×4 tires, biting into both asphalt and unforgiving terrain with equal tenacity.
Unleashed on unforgiving terrain, the Toton Funland revealed its true grit. The BorgWarner-sourced electronic 4×4 system, coupled with a low-range gearbox, transformed the ute into a mountain goat. All 450Nm of torque clawed at steep, treacherous inclines, effortlessly hauling the Funland upwards with unrelenting power. Slippery slopes became mere speed bumps in its relentless ascent.
Engage hill descent control and watch the ute crawl down the treacherous slope with unwavering composure. Need a surge of power without sacrificing low-range grunt? Flick through the gears with the paddle shifters, commanding the descent like a seasoned off-road pilot.
Navigating treacherous bush tracks felt like child’s play, thanks to the Tunland’s eagle-eyed 360-degree cameras. While the "transparent chassis" might not be X-ray vision, it’s a secret weapon against boulder fields and claustrophobic squeezes, turning potential dents into daring feats of off-road prowess.
Fresh from the Kia Tasman, the Foton Tunland surprised. Forget comparisons; the Tunland boasts superior on-road poise and hints at a potential off-road duel with the Tasman.
Strap on a blindfold and hop in the driver’s seat (figuratively, of course!). I bet you’d swear you were commanding a luxury chariot, not your everyday ride.
The engine isn’t going to win any races, but it’s got enough pep for the daily grind and a bit of weekend dirt. Think more "capable commuter" than "Ranger Raptor rival." Try to drive it like the latter, and you’ll find its limits quickly. Treat it with respect, though, and it’s a surprisingly willing partner.
The ZF automatic wasn’t just good; it was a masterful dance partner for the turbo-diesel. It effortlessly coaxed out every ounce of power in automatic mode, making even mundane drives feel luxuriously smooth. But the real magic happened when you grabbed the reins yourself. Flick it into manual, and you’re in command. Hold a gear right up to the redline’s edge – the transmission respects your decision, refusing to shift untilyousay so. A resounding victory for driver control.
| Off-road dimensions | Foton Tunland | | — | — | |Ground clearance| 240mm | |Approach angle| 28 degrees | |Departure angle| 26 degrees | |Ramp breakover angle| 21 degrees | |Wading depth| 700mm |
To see how the Foton Tunland lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
What do you get?
The Tunland range punches above its weight, delivering surprising value. Even the base-model V7-C 4×2 arrives fully loaded with the tech and features drivers demand in 2026. But the real showstopper is the V9-S 4×4 – a flagship trim overflowing with premium features typically found in vehicles costing a small fortune more.
2026 Foton Tunland V7-C 4×2 equipment highlights:
- Spray-in tub liner
- Highway Terrain tyres
- Eco, Standard, Sport drive modes
- Electronic parking brake
- Auto hold
- Automatic LED headlights
- Integrated dash cam
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 2 x front USB-A outlets
- 4-speaker sound system
- Single-zone air-conditioning
- 6-way manually adjustable driver’s seat
- 4-way manually adjustable passenger seat
The V7-C 4×4 adds:
- Four-wheel drive system
- Sand, Mud, Snow modes
- Locking rear differential
- All-terrain tyres
The V9-L 4×4 adds:
- Multi-link rear suspension
- ‘Premium’ side steps
- ‘Premium’ 18-inch wheel design
- Sports bar
- Lockable tray
- Heated, power-folding exterior mirrors
- Heated front seats
- 6-way power driver’s seat with 4-way lumbar
- 4-way power passenger seat
- Dual-zone climate control
- 6-speaker sound system
- 2x rear USB-A outlets
- 220V/300W power outlet
- Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
The V9-S 4×4 adds:
- Locking front differential
- Roof rails
- Rear privacy glass
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated front seats
- Driver seat memory
- Heated outboard rear seats
- LED rear reading light
- Auto up/down for all power windows
To see how the Foton Tunland lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
Is the Foton Tunland safe?
As of this writing, the 2026 Foton Tunland remains an enigma to ANCAP’s safety experts, its crashworthiness unproven and its star rating yet to be determined.
Standard safety equipment for the Foton Tunland range includes:
- Six airbags
- Adaptive cruise control
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keep assist
- Lane centring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Surround-view camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Safe exit warning
- Traffic sign recognition
Foton Tunland V9-S 4×4 adds:
- Driver monitoring system
To see how the Foton Tunland lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
How much does the Foton Tunland cost to run?
Drive with peace of mind. Foton’s Tunland boasts an industry-leading 7/7/7 aftersales program: a staggering seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, seven years of worry-free capped-price servicing, and seven years of dependable roadside assistance. That’s seven years of pure driving pleasure, backed by Foton’s unwavering commitment.
| Servicing and Warranty | MAKE MODEL VARIANT | | — | — | |Warranty| 7 years, unlimited kilometres | |Roadside assistance| 7 years (subject to dealer servicing) | |Service intervals| 15,000km, 12 months | |Capped-price servicing| 7 years, 110,000km | |Average annual service cost| $641.80 | |Total capped-price service cost| $4492.59 |
Imagine only needing a pit stop every 15,000 km or once a year. Over seven years, you’ll spend just $4492.59 keeping your ride in top shape. That’s less than a daily coffee run!
However, unlike some other capped-price service program, Foton has reserved the right to adjust pricing in the future.
To see how the Foton Tunland lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
childcareman.xyz’s Take on the Foton Tunland
The 2026 Foton Tunland is a hugely impressive dual-cab ute – even at double the price.
Twenty-four hours. A whirlwind tour. That’s all we had with the Tunland range, blitzing through diverse terrains. While we pushed them hard, a day barely scratches the surface. Lingering gremlins, hidden hiccups – they might just be lurking, waiting to surface when we finally get our hands on one for a proper, in-depth review. Stay tuned.
Could the Foton Tunland be the new king of the sub-$50,000 dual-cab 4×4 ute? Early signs point that way, suggesting it might finally unseat the KGM Musso from its South Korean throne. The real test, however, lies ahead.
Need a dual-cab that won’t break the bank or tackle the outback? The V7-C 4×2 delivers impressive practicality under $40K. Simply add a steel canopy for balanced suspension and you’re set.
Craving an off-road adventure without emptying your wallet? The Tunland V7-C 4×4 delivers exceptional value at $42,990 (plus on-road costs), hitting the sweet spot between capability and cost in the Tunland range. It’s your gateway to unpaved freedom.
Young tradies who have finished their apprenticeship and want to upgrade their wheels should take note.
Really though, any of the four grades comes across as a bargain.
The 2026 Foton Tunland isn’t just turning heads; it’s rewriting the rulebook. Forget subtle this truck bursts onto the scene with a boldness that demands attention. Step inside, and you’ll find an interior that redefines expectations. Behind the wheel, the driving experience is so refined it’s almost unfair. But the real knockout punch? Unbeatable value that threatens to send shockwaves through the established order. The Mitsubishi Triton, GWM Cannon, LDV T60, and even the highly anticipated Nissan Navara might want to keep a close eye on their rearview mirrors. The Tunland is coming for them.
Hold on tight, value ute shoppers! The playing field just leveled up, and the Foton Tunland is roaring onto the scene, promising to inject a serious dose of excitement into your search for the perfect workhorse.
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