2026 Foton Motors Tunland V9-S 4x4
By Lorenzo Bianchi October 28, 2025
2.0L turbo-diesel mild-hybrid delivers 120 kW and 450 Nm.
Up to 3,500 kg towing and 995 kg payload capability.
Flagship V9-S adds luxury touches like a sunroof and facial recognition.
A Confident Return to Australian Roads
The 2026 Foton Motors Tunland V9-S 4x4 marks the brand’s strongest comeback yet in Australia. Positioned between traditional dual-cab utes and larger full-size pickups, it’s a machine aimed squarely at the middle ground — capable enough for worksites, refined enough for the weekend. Foton calls it the “Goldilocks ute,” and after a look at the spec sheet, that feels about right
The V9-S sits at the top of a four-model lineup, joined by the V7-C 4x2, V7-C 4x4, and V9-L 4x4. Every model shares the same muscular stance and proportions — long bonnet, high shoulder line, and a wide, planted track that immediately communicates capability. But the V9’s design edges slightly more premium, with its broader hexagonal grille, gloss-black 18-inch wheels, and subtle chrome touches that add a hint of sophistication.
Diesel-Hybrid Power with Truck DNA
Under the hood lies Foton’s 2.0-liter Aucan turbo-diesel, paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. The combination produces 120 kW and 450 Nm, enough muscle to tow 3,500 kg or haul a near one-tonne payload
The hybrid assist smooths take-off torque and trims fuel use, while the ZF gearbox keeps the engine in its sweet spot.
It’s a package shaped by Foton’s global truck-building experience, but tuned specifically for Australia. A multi-link rear suspension setup replaces the V7’s work-ready leaf springs, trading raw load capacity for a more settled, SUV-like ride.
The V9-S also adds selectable drive modes — Eco, Standard, Sport, Sand, Mud, and Snow — along with a locking front differential for those willing to test the ute’s limits off-road.
Inside the V9-S: Utility Meets Comfort
Step inside and it’s clear Foton’s priorities have evolved. The cabin feels surprisingly upmarket for a ute in this segment. The wide dashboard houses a 12.3-inch driver display and a 14.6-inch infotainment screen, with physical dials retained for key functions — a thoughtful touch for gloved hands and dusty workdays.
The V9-S 4x4 gets the full luxury treatment: ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and a panoramic sunroof that gives the interior a light, open feel. A Driver Monitoring System watches for fatigue or distraction, while facial recognition technology adjusts vehicle settings automatically for different drivers
It’s a surprising mix — luxury cues meeting workhorse practicality — and it’s executed with restraint rather than flash.
Technology and Safety at the Forefront
Foton’s equipment list reads like a mid-size SUV rather than a pickup. Standard features include Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system with a transparent chassis view. The V9-S takes this further with semi-autonomous Level 2.5 driver assistance, including adaptive cruise and lane centering.
Eight airbags, including a center airbag, complete an impressive safety suite uncommon at this price point.
Built for Both Job and Journey
The 2026 Tunland V9-S 4x4 isn’t chasing headline-grabbing numbers. Instead, it’s trying to fill a gap — something rugged enough for heavy towing yet comfortable enough for the daily drive. With Foton’s seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranty and growing dealer network, the company’s confidence seems well-founded.
Technical Specifications
Powertrain
Engine: 2.0-litre Aucan turbo-diesel
Hybrid System: 48V mild-hybrid assist
Transmission: 8-speed ZF automatic
Drive System: Selectable four-wheel drive (4x4)
Power Output: 120 kW
Torque: 450 Nm
Drive Modes: Eco, Standard, Sport, Sand, Mud, Snow
Front Differential: Locking type
Performance and Capability
Towing Capacity: 3,500 kg (braked)
Payload Capacity: Up to 995 kg
Suspension:
Front: Independent double-wishbone
Rear: Multi-link coil spring setup
Fuel System: Common-rail direct injection
Dimensions
Overall Length: 5,340 mm
Width: 1,960 mm
Height: 1,870 mm
Wheelbase: 3,110 mm
Ground Clearance: 220 mm
Approach Angle: 28°
Departure Angle: 26°
Interior and Technology
Instrument Display: 12.3-inch full digital cluster
Infotainment Screen: 14.6-inch touchscreen
Connectivity: Apple CarPlay / Android Auto (wired and wireless)
Audio System: Premium sound setup (model-specific)
Driver Assistance:
- Driver Monitoring System (DMS)
- Facial Recognition for seat and system memory
Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic
Sunroof: Panoramic (V9-S exclusive)
Safety Systems
Airbags: 8 (including center airbag)
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS):
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
360° Camera with Transparent Chassis View
Wheels and Tires
Wheel Size: 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels
Tire Type: All-terrain rated
Spare Wheel: Full-size underbody mount
Warranty and Service
Warranty: 7 years / unlimited kilometres
Roadside Assistance: 7 years
Servicing: Capped-price program available through Foton dealers




























