The Foton Thunda was first introduced locally in 2010 and was offered in both a single- and double-cab body style. The pick-up range was brought in to the country by Amalgamated Automobile Distributors and was offered in three trim levels namely V, CV and the high-end XV.
The Foton Thunda has since been replaced by the Tunland which not only offer customers single- and double-cab derivatives but also a special edition model which sees a variety of optional extras fitted as standard, namely the Tunland Granite. However, you won't have to search far to find used Foton Thunda models.
1. Engines
The Foton Thunda is available with either a diesel or a petrol motor, the latter taking shape as a Toyota derived 4Y-base engine. The petrol unit, 2.2-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder, is coupled to a 5-speed manual transmission which sends the power to the rear wheels. The combination is capable of 76 kW and 193 Nm of torque.
The diesel derivative on the other hand comes fitted with an Isuzu derived 2.8-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder diesel motor also mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels. This combination sees the power reduced to 68 kW but the torque increases to 202 Nm.
2. Interior
Although the first versions which were first showcased during the 2008 Johannesburg International Motor Show offered imitation wood trim on the interiors. The local distributors requested plastic inserts instead as it adds to the durability and the cabin styling. Both on the V and CV trim levels, customers can expect cloth upholstery, as well as power steering.
The CV range further bolsters the package with a radio/CD player, airconditioning, electric windows, electric mirrors, adjustable steering column, rear park distance control and an alarm system with immobilizer. The XV derivatives offer all of the above but instead of cloth seats now offer leatherette units.
3. Warranty, service and price
At the time, the Foton Thunda came standard with a 3-year / 100 000 km warranty and for petrol models a 3-year / 70 000 km service plan with services scheduled for every 15 000km. The diesel-powered offerings came with a 3-year / 75 000 km service plan with services scheduled for every 10 000km.
At the time of launch the entry-level Foton Thunda single-cab fitted with the petrol motor and in V guise would have set you back R99 950. The flagship Foton Thunda double cab diesel variant in XV trim would have cost you R179 950 with the other three derivatives falling in between this price range. This means that used Foton Thunda vehicles will most likely come at an even more affordable price.
