Foton is making a bold return to the Australian market, unveiling its all-new Tunland ute at the Melbourne Motor Show. Set to arrive in Q3 2025, the Tunland V series is positioned to challenge established players in the highly competitive ute segment.
Two Variants to Suit Work and Play
The new Tunland range offers two distinct models:
- Tunland V7 – a no-nonsense workhorse, available in both 2WD and 4WD, built for durability and practicality.
- Tunland V9 – equipped with coil-spring rear suspension to deliver SUV-like comfort, combining refinement with rugged strength.
Both variants are powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine paired with a 48V hybrid system, offering a braked towing capacity of up to 3,500kg.
Built on Commercial Vehicle DNA
With decades of experience as the largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in China, Foton has drawn on its heavy-duty truck expertise to engineer the Tunland for Australian conditions. The new model also features an advanced BorgWarner electronic selectable 4WD system, with one-button switching and torque amplification technology to optimise traction and efficiency across a variety of terrains.
“The new Tunland is where Foton shows its strength,” said Glen Cooper, General Manager of Foton Australia. “Foton have taken everything they know about building hard-working trucks and packed it into a ute that’s built for how Australians live, work and explore. Backed by Inchcape’s customer-centricity and national distribution strength, Tunland is set to make serious impact – bold, capable, and built to deliver.”
Industry Backing and Distribution
Foton Australia is operated by Inchcape, which was appointed distributor for the brand in 2024. With Inchcape’s national network and focus on customer service, Foton is aiming to ensure the Tunland is not just reintroduced but “unleashed” in a way that meets the needs of both fleet and private buyers.
What It Means for Fleets
For fleets, the hybrid-assisted diesel powertrain offers a balance of reduced emissions and strong towing performance. The dual-variant approach also gives organisations flexibility—whether they need a tough 2WD workhorse or a more refined 4WD option that can double as a staff vehicle.
