Heavyweight Hitter, or just a Heffalump? Foton Tunland V9 2.0TD LTD review



There was a time when Chinese bakkies arrived in South Africa with one job description: be cheap, be tough, and don’t ask too many questions. Fast forward to today, and the script has been completely rewritten.

Enter the Foton Tunland V9—a double cab that doesn’t just nudge the segment forward, it barges in like it owns the place. With its near full-size dimensions, SUV-like interior, and a price tag that undercuts the establishment, it’s clearly aimed at buyers who want more presence, more tech, and more comfort without wandering into seven-figure territory.

But in a market dominated by legacy heavyweights, is this bold newcomer a genuine disruptor, or just another flashy outsider? Let’s start where most people will—by taking in that sheer size and presence.

Styling

Let’s address the rather large elephant in the room. At over 5.6 metres in length, the Tunland V9 isn’t just big for a double cab—it’s flirting with full-size American pickup territory. It sits somewhere between a Ranger and an F-150 in sheer presence, and you feel every millimetre of it.

Visually, it leans heavily into that American inspiration. The LTD model’s towering vertical grille gives it a bold, almost big-rig stance, while the rear has unmistakable F-150 undertones. It’s a proper head-turner, helped along by LED daytime running lights, black 18-inch alloys and integrated side steps.

That said, it’s not flawless. Some of the bright silver exterior accents look a touch cheap up close, and the chrome strip on the bonnet has a habit of always looking grubby. A darker, more cohesive finish would elevate the overall design. Still, as a statement piece, the V9 absolutely lands.

Interior and Tech

Step inside and the Tunland V9 makes a very deliberate pivot away from “workhorse” and straight into SUV territory. The cabin is wide, airy, and feels more premium than you’d expect at this price point.

Dominating the dashboard is a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen that controls most vehicle functions. It’s sharp, responsive, and thankfully complemented by physical buttons for key controls—something that genuinely improves usability. A digital instrument cluster sits ahead of the driver and looks… very familiar. In fact, much of the cabin—from the stalks to the speaker surrounds—takes clear inspiration from Mercedes-Benz design language.

Material quality is impressive, with soft-touch finishes in key areas and solid overall fit and finish. You also get just about every feature you could want: panoramic roof, heated and ventilated artificial leather seats, ambient lighting, keyless entry/start, electrically adjustable seats, and a full suite of ADAS safety systems with six airbags and surround-view cameras.

Rear seat space is another highlight. Thanks to the V9’s sheer size, passengers get generous head, leg, and shoulder room, along with a more relaxed seating angle than traditional bakkies. This is very much a lifestyle cabin.

Engine and Drivetrain

Under the bonnet sits a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system, producing 120kW and 450Nm. On paper, those figures look modest—especially when tasked with hauling around a 2.3-tonne body.

However, the supporting cast is strong. The engine is co-developed with Cummins and engineered for durability, while the inclusion of a ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox is a major win—it’s one of the best in the business. A BorgWarner-sourced four-wheel-drive system adds further credibility, complete with low range, multiple terrain modes, and front and rear locking differentials.

Fuel Economy

Foton’s mild-hybrid system is designed to improve efficiency and smoothness rather than outright economy. In real-world conditions, consumption sits between 9.0 L/100km and 10.5 L/100km.

In lighter traffic, it can dip closer to the 9.0 mark, but start-stop driving and heavier loads push it toward 10.0 L/100km and beyond. In short, it’s respectable for a bakkie of this size, but not revolutionary.

Driving Impressions

On the move, the V9 delivers a mixed bag—though largely a positive one.

The first thing you notice is refinement. The drivetrain is smooth, quiet, and linear, with the mild-hybrid system ironing out any rough edges. The ZF gearbox plays a big role here, delivering seamless shifts and contributing to an easy-going driving experience.

Performance, however, is more leisurely than lively. With its size and weight, the V9 can feel underpowered, particularly under load or when overtaking. It’s not a bakkie that encourages urgency.

Ride quality is another interesting point. Despite its multi-link coil rear suspension, it still leans toward the firm side, with a hint of traditional bakkie bounce. That said, overall comfort and day-to-day livability are commendable.

Off-road, it’s properly equipped. With 240mm of ground clearance, 700mm wading depth, dual diff locks, and multiple terrain modes, it has serious capability. Just be mindful of that long wheelbase over sharp crests.

In urban environments, its size is impossible to ignore. It’s manageable, but tight parking and narrow spaces require some planning.

Price

At R799 900, the Tunland V9 positions itself directly against mid-spec offerings from established brands—but with significantly more space, tech, and presence.

You also get a 5-year/200,000 km warranty and a 5-year/75,000 km service plan, which adds further value to the package.

Verdict

The Foton Tunland V9 isn’t trying to be a Hilux or a D-Max—and that’s exactly the point. It’s a lifestyle bakkie through and through, offering maximum presence, generous space, and a feature-packed interior at a relatively accessible price.

Yes, the engine feels a touch underdone for its size, and there are minor quality quirks, but as an overall package, it makes a compelling case for itself.

If your priorities lean toward comfort, tech, and road presence rather than outright workhorse ability, the V9 is well worth a look.