The Foton Tunland may only have been with us briefly, but that didn't stop it from being one of the preferred Chinese-made bakkie offerings in South Africa.
First launched in 2012 as a 4x4 double-cab-only offering, the range was soon extended in 2014 to include a 4x2 version and a 4x2 single-cab alternative. It was later discontinued in 2018 when the holding group left SA, but fear not because there is still local backup.
Related: The Foton Tunland Pros and Cons
All of these models were powered by a 2.8-litre engine and backed by some impressive hardware. International markets got a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine but this engine was never made available locally. Should you see a petrol one advertised, you will need to make sure that the listing is correct.
Engine
The 2.8-litre engine in the Foton Tunland is a Cummins-derived unit, a brand synonymous with diesel engine technology and robust build quality. These hard-working turbodiesel engines were available in two different outputs for the double-cab and single-cab respectively.
The double cabs produce 120 kW at 3 600 RPM and 360 Nm at a low 1 800 RPM. This gives the double-cab a towing capacity of 2 500 kg and the manufacturer claims a fuel consumption figure of 8.3 l/100km with CO2 emissions listed at 219 g/km. This engine is Euro IV compliant as well.
The single-cab versions retain the 2.8-litre Cummins diesel but are detuned to produce 96 kW and 280 Nm.
While it has shorter than usual service intervals set at 10 000 km, this allows the engine to run on the less-refined but more readily accessible 500 ppm diesel, ideal for those far away places out in the sticks.
Supporting hardware
Aside from the diesel engine, Foton partnered with several other established international brands to utilize their technology in the running gear. You will find a Borg Warner transfer case and Dana axles and differentials in the 4x4 models Along with a Getrag gearbox. The 4x2 model use a Tangshan 5-speed gearbox instead.
Bosch supplied the electronics and ABS systems for use in the Tunland.
After-sales
All models were covered by a 3-year / 100 000 km warranty and despite the brand departing in 2018, the warranties, service agreements and spare parts are still catered for by Motus South Africa.
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5 Foton Tunland accessories you didn’t know you needed.
