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Vehicle importer Inchcape has confirmed its commercial vehicle brand, Foton, will introduce two new ute models in the first half of 2025.
The two models, known as the Tunland V7 and V9, were previously expected but have now had launch timing locked in. The all important pricing and specification details remain a mystery.
Bucking the typical trend to use a bigger number for a bigger vehicle, the Tunland T7 is the larger of the pair of utes measuring a serious 5797mm long and 2090mm wide. The V9 is a little smaller, at 5617mm tip to tail.
Both are a size up from the dominant ute class in Australia that features the Ford Ranger (5370mm long) and Toyota HiLux (5325mm long) yet not as big as US-sized ‘trucks’ such as the Ford F-150 (5884mm long). They compete directly with GWM’s new Cannon Alpha in size terms.
Visually there are references to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 in the front end of both the V7 and V9 trims, with bold wheel arches and chunky tyres shown.
Inside, Foton promises a 14.6-inch touchscreen, intelligent cabin tech, matrix LED headlights, four-way power seat adjust, leather upholstery and “luxurious finishes that prioritise occupant’s comfort on every journey.”
Underpinning the ute is a ladder frame chassis with a double wishbone front suspension and five-link independent rear set-up using coil springs rather than leafs — Philippine market models are rated with an 875kg payload.
The engine is a 2.0-litre single-turbo diesel four-cylinder producing 120kW and 450Nm. An eight-speed ZF-sourced automatic transfers punch to either the rear or all-four wheels, depending on the model.
Ahead of the Tunland ute, the Aumark S light-duty truck range will arrive later this year.
Utes from Foton has been sold here under the Tunland name between 2012 and 2019, handled by three companies: FAA Automotive, Ateco and then a factory-backed operation.
Foton’s Australian importer Inchcape recently axed Citroen from its portfolio and has also taken on another Chinese brand — though one focused on passenger cars and SUVs — Deepal.
The brand is heavily biassed towards commercial vehicles, offering electric light trucks that are proving popular with businesses looking to lower carbon emissions.
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