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New Foton Tunland V7 and V9 hit Mzansi

Foton is making a play in the South African bakkie market. Following the recent rollout of its G7 range, the brand has officially launched the all-new Tunland V-Series, comprising the V7 and V9.

Automotive News1 min read

Positioned as full-size double cabs, these newcomers bring mild-hybrid technology to the segment at a low price point.

One Drivetrain, two models

While both models share the same "heart," they are designed for very different lifestyles:

  • The Tunland V7 (Workhorse): Focused on durability and heavy-duty use. It features a leaf-sprung rear suspension and a reinforced cargo box.

  • The Tunland V9 (Lifestyle and leisure): Prioritises passenger comfort. It swaps the leaf springs for a multi-link rear suspension, delivering a much smoother ride quality aimed at families and long-distance travellers.

Hybrid powertrain

Both models are powered by a 2.0-litre AUCAN turbo-diesel engine, co-developed with Cummins. This is paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions without sacrificing the "grunt" bakkie owners expect.

Key Technical Specs:

  • Power/Torque: 120kW and 450Nm.

  • Transmission: 8-speed ZF automatic.

  • Towing Capacity: Up to 3 500kg (braked).

  • Drivetrain: BorgWarner turbocharger and transfer case (available in 4x2 and 4x4).

Tech and Safety

Inside, the V-Series is a leap forward for the brand. The cabin is dominated by a 14.6-inch intelligent touchscreen featuring Apple CarPlay, synthetic leather seats, and a customisable digital instrument cluster.

Safety hasn't been sidelined either, with a 5-Star C-NCAP rating and a suite of features including:

  • 6 Airbags.

  • 360-degree camera system.

  • Lane Departure Warning (LDWS).

  • Electronic Stability and Traction Control.

Pricing 

Foton is leveraging local assembly (scheduled to begin in Q2 2026 at the BAIC plant in Gqeberha).

ModelDrivetrainPrice
Tunland V7 VLX4x2R689 900
Tunland V7 VLX4x4R765 900
Tunland V9 VLX4x2R725 900
Tunland V9 LTD4x4R799 900

All models come standard with a 5-year / 200 000km warranty and a 5-year / 75 000km service plan, backed by a growing network of nearly 60 dealerships nationwide.

Author - Sean Nurse

Written by Sean Nurse

With a lifelong passion for cars, bikes, and motorsport, Sean knew that attaining a degree in journalism would allow him to pursue his passion, which was to be a motoring journalist. After graduating in 2012, Sean was awarded a bursary from the SAGMJ which allowed him to work for a variety of motoring publications. This was a dream come true for Sean, and after a year of gaining vital industry experience, he was hired as a motoring journalist at a local newspaper and worked his way up to editor. In 2020, Sean joined the AutoTrader team and counts himself lucky to wake up and genuinely love what he does for a living.Read more

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