Foton announces Australian return with new Tunland hybrid ute range
The Tunland previously made headlines for its resemblance to features found in America's best-selling ute, the RAM 1500.
And now more details on the company's hybrid ute have been revealed.
There has been a growing number of Chinese utes entering Australia, and the Tunland will join this line-up, which includes the JAC T9, LDV Terron 9, and GWM Cannon.
Glen Cooper, General Manager of Foton Australia, said the new Tunland is a 'Goldilocks' ute that delivers a compelling blend of performance, technology, and value, tailored specifically to the Australian market.
'The all-new Tunland is a fresh and capable new contender in the ute segment, offering commercial-grade space and toughness, combined with the comfort and technology modern drivers expect,' he said.
2025 Foton Tunland. Picture: Supplied
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'We've backed that up with tens of thousands of kilometres of local testing to ensure it's tuned for Australian conditions and built to deliver exactly what drivers need — whether it's for work, play, or everything in between.
'We see real potential for the Tunland to shake up the category by delivering greater versatility, space, and refinement in a truly value-packed offering.'
2025 Foton Tunland. Picture: Supplied
While final features and specifications are yet to be confirmed, Foton has revealed four trim levels that will be available across two model lines: the V7 and the V9.
The V7 will be available in both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations, catering to buyers seeking either a work-related vehicle or a more capable off-roader.
Meanwhile, the higher-spec V9 will only be available in a 4x4 configuration and will come in two versions: the more comfort-focused V9 L and the sportier V9 S.
2025 Foton Tunland. Picture: Supplied
2025 Foton Tunland. Picture: Supplied
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The base model will start at $39,990 plus on-road costs, while the flagship V9 S will begin at $49,990 plus on-road costs. This pricing is slightly higher than competitors like the JAC T9, which is available for a drive-away price under $50,000, and the GWM Cannon, priced at $49,900 drive-away.
Under the bonnet, all Tunland models will be powered by a 2.0-litre Aucan turbo-diesel engine paired with 48V mild-hybrid technology and a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission.
Foton also fulfils the essential criteria for selling a ute in Australia.
The Tunland has an impressive braked towing capacity of 3,500kg and a payload capacity exceeding one tonne.
2025 Foton Tunland. Picture: Supplied
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Additionally, it is equipped with a range of driver safety features, ensuring both power and protection on the road.
Foton originally entered the Australian market in 2012 with the first-generation Tunland ute, but exited in 2017 after changing local distributors three times. Now, the brand is back, hoping for a more substantial and stable return with a much more refined and competitive product.
Read related topics: China Ties
James Chung
Digital Content Creator
James is a Digital Content Creator at news.com.au and is part of the News Corp Australia's digital real estate team. His previous experience includes working for Sky News Australia.
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