There are four models. These include the work style V7 in both 2wd and 4WD versions. The V9 comes in two different 4WD spec versions.

All comes with the same 2.0L 48V mild hybrid turbo diesel engine. This provides 120kW of power and 450Nm of torque from a low 1500rpm.

This is combined with a specially calibrated 8 speed ZF Automatic Transmission.

Some would say that 120kW isn’t enough power. And im amongst them, But for all but very few situations its adequate. Interestingly with the draconian NVES legislation, many Ute manufacturers are now offering a 120kW version.

Over the last four weeks I’ve driven each version.

For testing I’ve towed a smaller camper trailer, driven them on forest trails and the beach. Taken a longer motorway based trip. Used them for everyday transport and moved heavy loads in the Ute tub.

I’ve used the tailgate as a picnic table to watch sunsets over the beach and even put the grandsons baby seat in the back.

With a SUV like interior and abundant space for five occupants the FOTON Tunland is definitely different.

The big surprise if the stunning pricing. From $39,990 through to $49,990 plus the usual costs its outstanding value.

Overall, the FOTON Tunland may just be the perfect lifestyle Ute.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the FOTON Tunland  – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE FOTON Tunland – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Foton Tunland Buyers could also look at:

While the Ute segment is growing in terms of participants, there is a definite development of subsections.

The first is on size. The mid-sized segment includes the: MGU9, GWM Cannon Alpha and LDV Terron9,

However, if you also look at pricing and engine figures there are some other alternatives such as: KGM Musso XLV Ultimate, the new Isuzu D-MAX 2.2L powered Utes and the same for 2.2L Mazda BT-50,

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Powered by a 2.4L Turbo diesel engine delivering 135kW of power and  480Nm of torque, it’s responsive to drive . With a GWM  9-speed automatic transmission it’s also reasonably economical as well.

The Canon isn’t a bad looking Ute and the XSR comes with extra style additions. These include full underbody protection, front and rear steel bumpers, black alloys, sports bar, roof rails, and a black snorkel.

Inside the Canon is comfortable and well laid out. The drivers’ instruments and large central screen have good resolution and easy to read. The heated and ventilated front seats are electrically adjustable. I do like the separate USB input on the rear view mirror for dash cams.

The XSR also comes with a Borg Warner 4WD system, front and rear diff locks, adjustable steering, 700 mm wading depth and other 4WD features.

I took the Canon XSR on some dirt roads that are heavily corrugated and potholed. The rear suspension is a little harsh, but it coped well. On sand it’s easy to drive and the low torque delivers when needed.

Rated to tow 3500kg I didn’t get a chance this time, but it certainly feels as if it will be a handy tow vehicle.

The best news is the price. From $51,990 plus the usual costs its pretty good value for money

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Canon XSR – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Canon XSR – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

GWM Canon XSR – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  Canon XSR could also look at the following: KGM SsangYong Musso, FOTON Tunland, LDV T60, Nissan Navara STX, Isuzu D-Max, JAC T9

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This is the mid-range model that comes with leather seats, soft padding on touch points, wireless smart phone connectivity and charging tray. There is an optional pack that adds heated front seats and power adjustment for driver seat.

It has a smaller central screen compared to other Utes, but it is functional and easy to use.

Outside it comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, Tub liner, heated exterior mirrors, LED lighting and more.

The Triton comes with a 2.4 L twin turbo diesel engine with power of 150 kW and 470 Nm of torque between 1500 rpm to 2750 rpm. This is combined with a six speed AT and the Super Select 4WD -ll system with Terrain Control. The GLS also comes with active Yaw control and a standard rear diff lock.

This combination is particularly good for both on and off-road driving.

The latest Triton maintained its 4WD capability while substantially improving its on road ride and handling. In fact, the GLS with its standard rear suspension is amongst the best on road riding and handling Utes on the market.

The Triton GLS will tow 3500 kg and has a payload of around 1000 kg.

Priced from around $59,000 plus the usual costs the Triton GLS is excellent value. This model had the $1500 option pack that includes Black leather trim, heated front seats and power drivers seat.

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I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Triton GLS – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Triton GLS  – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Instead of the Triton GLS – buyers could look at:

It’s a competitive segment.

There is of course the popular Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger 2.0L, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Nissan Navara, SsangYong Musso, LDV T60,

Triton GLS Specific additions

 Stepping up to the Triton GLS brings a sophisticated look and feel, combined with Mitsubishi’s legendary Super Select 4WD II system.

Drivetrain and Chassis:

• Super Select 4WD-II
• Terrain Control
• Hill Descent Control
• Standard Rear Suspension

Exterior:

• New 18” Alloy wheels
• Bedliner
• Heated, electrically-adjusted power folding door mirrors.
• Privacy Glass (rear windows)
• LED lighting (headlamps, DRLs, front fog lamps, side turn lamps, rear tail, and brake lamps)
• MITSUBISHI embossed gloss black grille
• Chrome ‘Dynamic Shield’ front fascia design

Interior:

• Interior trim: Soft padding surfaces with silver accent stitching and trim garnishes

Comfort and Convenience:

• Dual zone auto air conditioning
• Auto dimming rear view mirror (frameless type)
• Keyless entry with 2 transmitters
• Keyless Operating System (KOS)
• One Touch Engine Start Switch (OSS)
• Smartphone wireless charger

 Triton GLS Leather Option

 For an additional $1500, the GLS Leather Option further lifts the interior ambience with the following:

• Seat Trim Material: Leather with silver stitching
• Power Driver’s Seat adjustment
• Heated Front Seats

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The road test included many kilometres of highway and winding hilly roads. Lots of gravel and an interesting 4WD section that included everything you could possibly want to test its capability.

With a wide stance, Australian designed suspension and dual pinion steering, the Tasman could lay claim to the best on road riding Ute in Australia. Bold words but it would be dam close.

Enter the potholed tar and dirt roads and the Tasman remained composed at all times. Even when savagely turned to avoid unseen holes.

Off road the Tasman excelled. The track included lots of rutted descents and climbs, moguls that tested the chassis and articulation and crossovers plus more.

I covered the track first time in 4L with the rear diff locked and controlling everything on my right boot. It simply went about its business with minimum fuss.

The second time I exclusively used the sophisticated X-Trek system so that all I did was steer. I have to admit its even better than I am.

Just for giggles I tried a particularly nasty section in 4H with no diff locks and again it simply did what was asked, with minimum wheel spin.

The key to the Tasman is how it does everything asked without fuss.

Definitely worth a test drive

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I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Kia Tasman    – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Kia Tasman X-PRO – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

What is good?

• On road ride and handling combined with off road articulation
• Internal layout is comfortable and clever.
• X-Pro 4WD capability

What is not so good?

• Questionable styling
• Would love 500Nm of torque.
• Plastic dash honeycomb is a bit naff

Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Kia Tasman could also look at the following: Toyota HiLux GR Sport, Ford Ranger Tremor, Nissan Navara Pro 4X Warrior, Isuzu D-Max Blade , Mazda BT-50 SP, Mitsubishi Triton GSR

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Overwhelmingly negative along three lines.

Too expensive, underpowered and ugly.

Lets take a minute to address these

First – underpowered. My question is compared to what. Every mid-sized Ute is underpowered compared to the Ranger Raptor. Most Utes are underpowered compared to the V6 3.0 litre turbo diesel found in some rangers.

The HiLux GR Sport has more power and torque than most.

The key here is – does it have enough power and torque for what you need it to do. If so great, if not buy something else.

Too expensive. Well, the prices range from about $40,000 through to about $75,000 plus the usual costs. Surely there is a Ute in there that suits a buyers pricing. Also the top spec Tasman X-Pro is well priced against its main competitors and is actually good value.

Lastly – too ugly. Well, the saying is that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Do I think it’s a good looking Ute – not really. Do I think it’s ugly – not really. It does grow on you.

And as I always say if Ugly was a criteria, my wife would never have picked me because I am a bog old ugly bear, but she does have good taste.

My advice is not to listen to keyboard critics and go and drive it for your self

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Kia Tasman    – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Kia Tasman – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Motoring Minute Video

What is good?

• On road ride and handling combined with off road articulation
• Internal layout is comfortable and clever.
• X-Pro 4WD capability

What is not so good?

• Questionable styling
• Would love 500Nm of torque
• Plastic dash honeycomb is a bit naff

Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Kia Tasman could also look at the following: Toyota HiLux GR Sport, Ford Ranger Tremor, Nissan Navara Pro 4X Warrior, Isuzu D-Max Blade , Mazda BT-50 SP, Mitsubishi Triton GSR

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Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. 

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The post Kia Tasman – addressing the negative comments appeared first on Motoring Minute.