Moving into the one-tonne market

It’s no secret that eastern countries are upping their game with Asian products climbing the quality scale – fast! Proof of this is the Foton Tunland, as reported by our assistant editor, Gavin Myers, in his review a year ago. This eastern force is now entering the largest segment of the local light commercial vehicle market with a one-tonne workhorse.

The Tunland, a clean-sheet development from one of China’s leading domestic automotive brands, was launched in South Africa in 2012, initially as a fully equipped double cab 4×4. Subsequently the range has grown with the arrival of a double cab 4×2 and then a single cab – known as the Off-Road. Now, the On-Road derivative joins the ranks at a competitive R199 950.

Like all the other Tunland models, the latest addition is powered by a 2,8-litre Cummins diesel engine – making it the first vehicle in this category to be powered by an engine from the famous United States-based company, according to Foton.

This Cummins ISF 2,8 turbodiesel powerplant puts out 96 kW and 280 Nm of torque, which is delivered to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox. The new Tunland has a 75-litre fuel tank, and consumes fuel at a reported 8 l/100 km.

It isn’t, however, all about the engine as the new workhorse is said to have a car-like interior and features such as air-conditioning; electric windows; anti-lock ABS brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution; a driver’s side airbag; height-adjustable front seatbelts; motion-sensing door locks; remote central locking; and height-adjustable halogen headlamps.

It is fitted with a safety-cell cab and reinforced load body with a cargo capacity of more than 4 m³ and a payload capability of 1 105 kg. Front suspension is independent by means of double wishbones, while leaf springs are used at the rear. Ground clearance is 160 mm.

Sales and service for the Foton light commercial vehicle range is available from 36 dealers in South Africa, while the Tunland single cab workhorse comes with a three-year/100 000 km warranty, three-year roadside assistance and a three-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion warranty.

Be sure to grab the July edition of FOCUS for a full review on the new single cab Tunland Off-Road.