dual cab Archives - Motoring Minute

Foton Tunland V9 – Spacious and comfortable interior

admin — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 20:00:50 +0000

Foton Tunland V9 interior – We have spent a few weeks in the Foton Tunland V9 and today lets chat about the interior.

First impressions are of luxury and space. Remember the V9 comes in two models with the top spec packed with standard luxury, comfort features.

We are definitely in premium SUV territory here.

Supportive and comfortable seats with side bolsters and electronic adjustments and additional lumbar support. Front seats are heated and ventilated and the outer rear seats are heated.

Adding to the premium feel is the highlight stitching and mood lighting with more than 200 variations.

The 12.3 inch drivers instrument panel is configurable with multiple options. Most drivers will find what they like and leave it there.

The 14.6 inch central touch screen has excellent clarity. There has been a lot of work done to make the user interface easy and intuitive. Wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity is a bonus, but currently there is no Android Auto.

Rear seats have enough room for my 190cm frame to sit comfortably. There are isofix and top tether points on the two outer seats. With a long wheelbase and abundant rear seat room, placing a baby seat there is so much easier than a normal Ute.

The rear seats lift up and fold down for greater practicality and flexibility.

Overall, the interior of the V9 is what you would expect from an SUV that costs many thousands of dollars more.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications Foton Tunland HERE

A full review of the Foton Tunland can be found HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Foton Tunland V9 Interior – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

https://motoringminute.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MM-4893-September-24.mp3

What is good?

Absolutely stunning value for money
Stylish mid-sized design
Interior space, comfort, and ambience.

What is not so good?

It’s underpowered for heavy duty work. Would love 20% more power.
No front massage seats ( I know that’s fussy ????)
Rated for 3500kg towing but better suited to 2500kg.

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Foton Tunland are in a rapidly growing segment.

Potential choices could be.

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

In today’s fast paced world, Listeners often want a quick update or a piece of quirky Automotive news. Listening to Motoring Minute provides that as well as the latest Automotive news and reviews.

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

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Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Foton Tunland V9 – Spacious and comfortable interior appeared first on Motoring Minute.

FOTON Tunland V9 4WD Capability

admin — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 20:00:01 +0000

The Foton Tunland V9 4WD is a capable dual-cab Ute designed to combine everyday practicality with genuine off-road ability.

This 4WD capability comes from the combination of

A Borg Warner dual range 4WD system,
Dana Axles and diffs with a Rear diff lock on the V9-L and front and rear diff locks on the V9-S,
ZF 8 speed Automatic transmission, and
All Terrain tyres as standard
Foton Tunland combines the best of available technology.

Its quite capable off road. With double wishbone front suspension. And Multi-Link Rigid Axle rear suspension for a smoother ride. It’s closer to an SUV feel with elevated off-road capability.

Other key 4WD features include

28 degree approach angle,
21 degree rampover and
26 degree departure angle.
240mm of ground clearance.
To put that into perspective the ground clearance is more than most Ford Ranger or Toyota HiLux models.
Wading depth of 700mm
And excellent wheel articulation.

Give all this capability comes at a price of less than $50,000 plus the usual costs. Buyers should start to question why they would buy a normal sized 4WD Ute for $60-$70,000 plus .

The Tunland has more space inside, seating for five in comfort and more luxurious interior trim. Add to that a larger tub and in many cases more payload.

Priced from $49,990 plus the usual costs. You could buy a Tunland V9 and a camper trailer for the price of a mid-spec Ford Ranger.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications Foton Tunland HERE

A full review of the Foton Tunland can be found HERE.

***TO LISTEN TO THE Foton Tunland* *V9 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW***

https://motoringminute.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MM-4888-September-17.mp3

What is good?

Absolutely stunning value for money
Stylish mid-sized design
Interior space, comfort, and ambience.

What is not so good?

It’s underpowered for heavy duty work. Would love 20% more power.
No front massage seats ( I know that’s fussy ????)
Rated for 3500kg towing but better suited to 2500kg.

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Foton Tunland are in a rapidly growing segment.

Potential choices could be.

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

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

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post FOTON Tunland V9 4WD Capability appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Foton Tunland V9 Exterior – Long term test week 1

admin — Sun, 06 Sep 2026 20:00:12 +0000

The Foton Tunland V9 makes a strong first impression. It has the kind of exterior design that is hard to ignore and exudes premium SUV styling with a strong off road character.

With a smooth hexagonal grill that seamlessly incorporates dual LED headlights. Fog lights and DRLs, it presents well. Lower body coloured bumper adds to the appeal.

From the side, the V9 looks equally impressive. A large body, raised stance and chunky wheel arches, with black fender flares give it plenty of road presence. The gloss black 18-inch alloy wheels suit the design well, adding to its rugged appearance without making it look overly aggressive.

The proportions of the Tunland V9 are another highlight. At over 5.6 metres long and more than two metres wide, it is a large Ute, and you can definitely see that in its design.

The high ground clearance makes it look ready for rougher terrain, while features such as the side steps, sports bar and roof rails add to its practical, adventure-ready appearance.

Around the back, the V9 keeps the design clean and functional, with integrated LED taillights, sculptured bumper and a large tray that reminds you this is still a working Ute.

Overall, the exterior combines rugged styling with modern details surprisingly well. It may not have the badge recognition of some of its rivals, but the Tunland V9 certainly has the looks to stand alongside them.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications Foton Tunland HERE

A full review of the Foton Tunland can be found HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Foton Tunland V9 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

https://motoringminute.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MM-4880-September-7.mp3

What is good?

Absolutely stunning value for money
Stylish mid-sized design
Interior space, comfort, and ambience.

What is not so good?

It’s underpowered for heavy duty work. Would love 20% more power.
No front massage seats ( I know that’s fussy ????)
Rated for 3500kg towing but better suited to 2500kg.

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Foton Tunland are in a rapidly growing segment.

Potential choices could be.

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

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

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Foton Tunland V9 Exterior – Long term test week 1 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The Foton Tunland V7 Interior – Spacious and comfortable

admin — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 20:00:41 +0000

Foton Tunland V7 interior – We have spent a few weeks in the Foton Tunland V7 and today lets chat about the interior.

First impressions are of luxury and space. Remember the V7 is the entry level model, aimed at tradies, workers and ruffed 4WD adventures.

However, it feels more like a luxury SUV inside. With synthetic leather trim, supportive seats and large digital driver instrument panel.

Even though the front seats have manual adjustments its easy to find a comfortable driving position. With enough seat slide and height and reach adjustable steering wheel im right at home.

The 12.3 inch drivers instrument panel is configurable with a number of options. Most drivers will find what they like and leave it there.

The rear seats lift up and fold down for greater practicality and flexibility.

Overall, the interior of the V7 is a cut above what you would expect for a work Ute.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications Foton Tunland HERE

A full review of the Foton Tunland can be found HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Foton Tunland V7 Interior – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

https://motoringminute.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/MM-Wednesday-1.mp3

What is good?

Absolutely stunning value for money
Stylish mid-sized design
Interior space, comfort, and ambience.

What is not so good?

It’s underpowered for heavy duty work. Would love 20% more power.
No front massage seats ( I know that’s fussy ????)
Rated for 3500kg towing but better suited to 2500kg.

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Foton Tunland are in a rapidly growing segment.

Potential choices could be.

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

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

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post The Foton Tunland V7 Interior – Spacious and comfortable appeared first on Motoring Minute.

The Foton Tunland V7 4WD capability

admin — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 20:00:40 +0000

The Foton Tunland V7 4WD is a capable dual-cab Ute designed to combine everyday practicality with genuine off-road ability.

This 4WD capability comes from the combination of

A Borg Warner dual range 4WD system,
Dana Axles and diffs with a Rear diff lock, a
ZF 8 speed Automatic transmission, and
All Terrain tyres as standard
Foton Tunland combines the best of available technology.

For off-road driving, the Tunland V7 offers a useful 28-degree approach angle, allowing it to climb steep embankments and obstacles with less risk of the front bumper making contact. At the rear, its 26-degree departure angle helps when driving down steep slopes or over uneven terrain. The 21-degree ramp-over, or breakover, angle indicates how well the Ute can cross a crest without the centre underside of the vehicle touching the ground.

Ground clearance is a solid 240mm, providing useful space between the underbody and rocks, ruts and other obstacles. The V7 also has a quoted 700mm wading depth, and excellent wheel articulation, further highlighting its off-road credentials.

To put that into perspective the ground clearance is more than most Ford Ranger or Toyota HiLux models.

Also, the Tunland V7 has a larger tub capacity, higher payload and substantially more interior room.

Priced from $42,990 plus the usual costs. You could buy a Tunland V7 and a camper trailer for the price of a mid-spec Ford Ranger.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can see the full specifications Foton Tunland HERE

A full review of the Foton Tunland can be found HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Foton Tunland V7 4WD – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

https://motoringminute.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/MM-4873-August-27.mp3

What is good?

Absolutely stunning value for money
Stylish mid-sized design
Interior space, comfort, and ambience.

What is not so good?

It’s underpowered for heavy duty work. Would love 20% more power.
No front massage seats ( I know that’s fussy ????)
Rated for 3500kg towing but better suited to 2500kg.

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Foton Tunland are in a rapidly growing segment.

Potential choices could be.

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

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

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post The Foton Tunland V7 4WD capability appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Foton V7 4WD Dual Cab Ute exterior features

admin — Sun, 16 Aug 2026 20:00:53 +0000

The Foton V7 features a bold and modern exterior design that combines rugged durability with premium styling. Its large front grille creates a strong road presence, while the chrome detailing and prominent Foton badge give the vehicle a refined, contemporary appearance.

The sculpted bonnet adds to its muscular stance, enhancing both aesthetics and the impression of strength.

The front of the V7 is equipped with LED headlights and distinctive daytime running lights, providing excellent visibility while giving the vehicle a sharp, modern look.

Integrated front fog lamps improve visibility in poor weather conditions, adding both practicality and safety.

Along the sides, the V7 features pronounced wheel arches, stylish alloy wheels, and strong body lines that emphasise its robust pickup design. Side steps provide easier access to the cabin while complementing the vehicle’s rugged appearance.

Body-coloured door handles and mirrors contribute to a more premium finish, while power-adjustable mirrors improve convenience for the driver.

At the rear, the V7 includes a durable cargo tub designed for work and recreational use, complete with a sturdy tailgate and integrated rear bumper. LED taillights enhance visibility and provide a modern final addition.

Roof rails and practical tie-down points further increase versatility, making the Foton V7 suitable for transporting equipment, luggage, or outdoor gear while maintaining an attractive and confident exterior design.

Next week we look at inside the Foton V7

Readers can see the full specifications Foton Tunland HERE

A full review of the Foton Tunland can be found HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Foton Tunland V7 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

https://motoringminute.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/MM-Monday.mp3

What is good?

Absolutely stunning value for money
Stylish mid-sized design
Interior space, comfort, and ambience.

What is not so good?

It’s underpowered for heavy duty work. Would love 20% more power.
No front massage seats ( I know that’s fussy ????)
Rated for 3500kg towing but better suited to 2500kg.

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Foton Tunland are in a rapidly growing segment.

Potential choices could be.

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

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

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Foton V7 4WD Dual Cab Ute exterior features appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Chery Stockman dual cab 4WD Ute coming soon

admin — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 20:00:13 +0000

Chery Stockman – Plug in Hybrid Utes are becoming more available. Imported to meet the ridiculous NVES rules. PHEV powertrains do have the advantage of being able to operate on EV alone for short distances.

A new entrant is coming soon. The Chery Stockman. They derived the name from a National competition where more than 20,000 suggestions Australians across the country were submitted.

Responses from motorists, tradies, families, Ute enthusiasts and regional communities nationwide.

Following an extensive review and public voting process, ‘Stockman’ emerged as the winning name.

I have to say its kind of a cool name and very Australian.

We don’t know much about the Stockman yet. Based on overseas information it will arrive with a 2.5-litre PHEV diesel engine producing 260kW of power and 680Nm of torque combined. It will have over 100km of EV only range and operate as a normal hybrid otherwise.

It is safe to say it will have a 3500kg towing capacity and over 100kg payload. Along with that, It will also have dual range 4WD capability along with front and rear diff locks.

With the GWM Cannon Alpha and BYD Shark 6 also having over 100 km EV range, they make the Ford Ranger PHEV claimed 50km range look a bit pathetic really.

Further details, including specifications, pricing and launch timing for Stockman, will be announced closer to market introduction.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Chery Stockman – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Chery Stockman – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

https://motoringminute.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BTW-4834-July-3.mp3

Chery Stockman – Buyers could also look at:

This is a growing segment with competition form a few brands. Some of the better choices are:

Other Utes include.

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

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

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Chery Stockman dual cab 4WD Ute coming soon appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Volkswagen Amarok 10 Deserts Special Edition review 2026

admin — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 20:00:30 +0000

Amarok 10 Deserts Special Edition – Special edition Utes are becoming more popular. Last year VW introduced the 10 Deserts Edition Amarok to celebrate the record braking Amarok that crossed all 10 Australian Deserts in under 7 days.

Unlike many others the 10 Deserts Edition strikes a subtle exterior. About the only nod is the label on the side panel.

Limited to 300 vehicles, the 10 deserts edition boasts a number of practical enhancements such as:

Amarok 40mm lift kit.
275mm ground clearance
Upgraded underbody protection.
Continental Cross Contact ATR tyres
Exclusive Satin Black 17” alloy wheels
Black Sports bar and Soft tonneau cover.
10 Deserts Edition decal
‘Diamond’ embossed fabric seat package
Amarok branded all-weather floor mats.

This drives all four wheels through a part time shift on the fly 4Motion system and a 10 speed Sports Automatic transmission.

The combination works well and you never seem to be in the wrong gear or wanting more performance.

I took the Amarok on both suburban and motorway driving, some dirt tracks and on the beach. It seemed to take all in its stride without fuss.

The steering is slightly heavy weighted but with good return to centre which I like, It feels more controlled. Suspension soaked up almost every bump and pothole.

Im not sure how many are left but it’s definitely worth a look as VW is now pricing them at around $60,000 driveaway and that’s outstanding value.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find all the specifications HERE.

Readers can find more details about the Amarok 10 Deserts – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Amarok 10 Deserts – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

https://motoringminute.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BTW-4815-June-8.mp3

VW Amarok Motoring Minute Video review

What is good?

4WD and towing capability
Good on road ride and handling
Practical additions

What is not so good?

Rear seat access and room is cramped.
Interior is a little bland.
No heated seats

Amarok 10 Deserts Special Edition – Buyers could also look at:

The Amarok 10 Deserts Special Edition has strong competition with:

Isuzu D-Max Blade $80,990 *MLP
Toyota HiLux Rogue $71,990 *MLP
Mazda BT-50 SP $73,490 *MLP
Mitsubishi Triton Raider $74,990 *MLP
Nissan Navara Pro 4X Warrior $71,643 *MLP (old model)
Ford Ranger Tremor $75,090 *MLP

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 120 radio channels.

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

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Volkswagen Amarok 10 Deserts Special Edition review 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Mitsubishi Triton Raider 4WD Ute pricing announced.

admin — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 20:00:43 +0000

Triton Raider – We’ve spoken before about the special edition Mitsubishi Triton Raider. This is a joint development between Mitsubishi and specialist manufacturer Premcar.

Based on the top model GSR the Triton Raider adds both functional and cosmetic appeal.

This is achieved by implementing a unique front and rear suspension damper package.

With the front damper utilising an internal rebound spring to maximise suspension control, was developed for Raider. A front spring and bump stop was also deployed.

There is also an upgraded frontal bash plate that is laser cut with Raider wording.

Premcar engineering team selected the Bridgestone AT002 all-terrain tyres, matched to a heavier-duty ROH ‘Assault’ 18-inch alloy wheel. These wheels are finished in a distinctive Brushed Bronze with specific ‘Raider’ hub caps.

Overall front clearance has increased by 25 mm from the combination suspension and wheel and tyres. The rear sees a 15mm lift from the wheels and tyres.

Overall wheel track has also widened by 20mm front and back.

The YAMAHA Performance Damper system which debuted in the 26MY Triton GSR is retained. This horizontally-mounted damper connects to the chassis to further enhance NVH performance.

There are some other cosmetic exterior additions to enhance the appeal.

Inside, the Triton Raider enjoys all the key equipment found in the top-spec GSR.

The black leather seats feature orange stitching, with the addition of Raider branded front headrests and a further Raider badge fitted to the centre console.

Available by mid-June in dealer showrooms, the Triton Raider will be priced from $74,990 plus the usual costs.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Triton Raider – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Triton Raider – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

https://motoringminute.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BTW-4814-June-5.mp3

Mitsubishi Triton Raider – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the Triton Raider are in an unusual segment. There are few to choose from.

Isuzu D-Max Blade $80,900*
Nissan Navara PRO 4X Warrior $70,765* (old model)
Toyota HiLux Rogue $71,990*
Mazda BT-50 SP $73,490*
Ford Ranger Tremor $75,090*
Remember to ask the dealer as special pricing can appear from time to time.

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 150 radio channels.

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

Listeners will find Motoring Minute syndicated through various news sites around Australia. Additionally on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

The post Mitsubishi Triton Raider 4WD Ute pricing announced. appeared first on Motoring Minute.