Foton utes returning with new-look Tunland V7 & V9

CHINESE brand Foton is back, with two Tunland variants confirmed for a 2025 launch in Australia, along with the Aumark light truck range.

The Tunland first reached Australia in 2011 through Gold Coast upstart FAA Automotive, before Ateco added the ute to its existing Foton truck range. That deal finished in 2019, when the first-generation Tunland’s time was ended by emissions regulations.

From the first half of 2025, the brand will be distributed by Subaru and Peugeot importer Inchcape, with a bigger and more modern pair dubbed Tunland V7 and Tunland V9.

Known in China as the Mars 7 and Mars 9, the new Tunland models share the same 3355mm wheelbase and circa-5540mm overall length. Inchcape describes the two Tunlands as full-size utes, although their dimensions position them between a Ford Ranger (3270mm wheelbase / 5225mm length) and the big F-150 (3694/5884mm).

Internal tub dimensions measure 1560mm long, 1650mm wide and 530mm tall, comparing favourably with the dual-cab Ranger XL 4x4’s 1547/1584/529mm figures. Both Tunlands claim a 3500kg braked towing capacity.

Full local specifications will be revealed closer to launch, but both models already sell in South Africa with a Euro V-compliant 120kW/450Nm (1800-2600rpm) 2.0-litre turbo diesel matched to ZF’s 8HP50 eight-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel drive and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system.

Given Australia’s enthusiasm for high-powered utes, another potential motor could be the Chinese market’s 284kW petrol engine, and an upcoming plug-in hybrid EV version would be well positioned to rival the Ford Ranger PHEV and BYD Shark.

The main distinction between the two models, at least until more local details are revealed, appears to be styling. The V7 clearly takes its front-end cues from the popular F-150, while the V9 looks more to the Ram 1500 for inspiration. With large bolt-on flares, it could also be considered the more enthusiast-oriented option.

The interior of the Tunland V models – again identical – will feature an “intelligent cockpit,” with a large 14.6-inch centre display to access Apple Carplay and a long instrument screen behind the steering wheel.

The vehicles are also expected to be equipped with various driver-assistance and connectivity systems to make them competitive in Australia’s strong-selling ute market.

In South Africa, both models are listed with 12-way electric adjustment for the main driver, front seat ventilation and heating, and automatic constant temperature air-conditioning.

Along with the Tunland utes, Foton’s Aumark S light-duty truck will reach Australia later this year.

“We are excited to introduce Foton’s innovative commercial vehicles to Australians, beginning with the Aumark S,” said Blair Read, Managing Director Distribution, Inchcape Australasia.

“We look forward to then expanding the Foton range in 2025 with the launch of the Tunland V7 and V9 Ute, as we continue to grow Foton’s dependable and value-driven mobility solutions that help enhance the operations of Australian businesses and support the adventurous lifestyles of Australian consumers.”