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 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 it does miss out on 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 bay 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 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

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.

• Ford Ranger 2.0L XL
• Isuzu D-Max 2.2L
• Mazda BT-50 2.2L
• KGM Musso XLV
• GWM Cannon Alpha
• MGU9
• LDV Terron 9
• Chery Stockman
• JAC Hunter PHEV

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

• The Foton Tunland V7 4WD capability
• Part Two – Foton V7 4WD Dual Cab Ute exterior features
• Part one Foton Tunland Long Term test
• Foton Tunland – Everything you need to know
• FOTON Tunland V7 C 2WD Ute driven for 2026.
• 2026 FOTON Tunland V7 and V9 review 
• Foton Tunland first drive for 2025
• FOTON TUNLAND details released including stunning pricing.

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.

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.

 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

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.

• Ford Ranger 2.0L XL
• Isuzu D-Max 2.2L
• Mazda BT-50 2.2L
• KGM Musso XLV
• GWM Cannon Alpha
• MGU9
• LDV Terron 9
• Chery Stockman
• JAC Hunter PHEV

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

• Part Two – Foton V7 4WD Dual Cab Ute exterior features
• Part one Foton Tunland Long Term test
• Foton Tunland – Everything you need to know
• FOTON Tunland V7 C 2WD Ute driven for 2026.
• 2026 FOTON Tunland V7 and V9 review 
• Foton Tunland first drive for 2025
• FOTON TUNLAND details released including stunning pricing.

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.

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.

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

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.

• Ford Ranger 2.0L XL
• Isuzu D-Max 2.2L
• Mazda BT-50 2.2L
• KGM Musso XLV
• GWM Cannon Alpha
• MGU9
• LDV Terron 9
• Chery Stockman
• JAC Hunter PHEV

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

• Part one Foton Tunland Long Term test
• Foton Tunland – Everything you need to know
• FOTON Tunland V7 C 2WD Ute driven for 2026.
• 2026 FOTON Tunland V7 and V9 review 
• Foton Tunland first drive for 2025
• FOTON TUNLAND details released including stunning pricing.

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.

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.

While both models share the same rugged platform and powertrain, they are designed to appeal to different buyers.

The V7 is the work-focused option, available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations with leaf-spring rear suspension for durability and load-carrying ability.

The V9 is aimed at buyers wanting extra comfort and refinement, featuring standard 4WD, multi-link rear suspension and a more premium interior with additional technology and convenience features.

Powering both Utes is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The engine produces 120kW of power and 450Nm of torque, with drive sent through a smooth ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

The mild-hybrid system improves efficiency and assists with low-speed performance while maintaining a claimed combined fuel consumption of around 8.0L/100km. Both models also offer a braked towing capacity of up to 3,500kg.

Pricing starts from around AUD $39,990 for the Tunland V7 4×2, with the V7 4×4 priced from $42,990. The V9 range begins at $45,990, while the flagship V9-S is available from $49,990 before on-road costs, making the Tunland range a competitively priced alternative in the Ute segment.

Over the next few weeks, we will be chatting about all the models and features.

Thai sis 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 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Foton Tunland – Buyers could also look at:

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

Potential choices could be.

• Ford Ranger 2.0L XL
• Isuzu D-Max 2.2L
• Mazda BT-50 2.2L
• KGM Musso XLV
• GWM Cannon Alpha
• MGU9
• LDV Terron 9
• Chery Stockman
• JAC Hunter PHEV

Some other Foton Tunland Articles

• Foton Tunland – Everything you need to know
• FOTON Tunland V7 C 2WD Ute driven for 2026.
• 2026 FOTON Tunland V7 and V9 review 
• Foton Tunland first drive for 2025
• FOTON TUNLAND details released including stunning pricing.

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.

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 Dual Cab Ute details Long term test 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Well, BYD, hoping to expand the appeal have just announced two additional models.

A trade ready Shark 6 Dynamic Cab-Chassis and a new range-topping Shark 6 Performance pickup.

These will sit alongside the existing Shark 6 Premium pickup.

The designers expanded the line-up to meet the needs of trade, fleet, and Aussie families.

They offer superior Dual Mode (DM) Super Hybrid performance, improved all-wheel drive capability, and refined on-road comfort.

Ironman is developing an optional tray for the trade ready cab chassis.

The new 2.0-litre turbo DM Super Hybrid in the Shark 6 Performance boosts total system power and torque to 350kW and 700Nm, respectively. That will allow a 3500kg towing rating.

Shark 6 customers benefit from three intelligent driving modes.

• EV Pure Electric Mode: the petrol engine is switched off.

• HEV Series Mode: the petrol engine does not drive the wheels. Instead, it acts like a portable power station.
• HEV Parallel Mode: The motors and the petrol engine work together in harmony to drive the wheels at the same time.

With 6.6kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability and multiple 230V outlets (one in-cabin, three in the tub) plus a V2L adaptor adding two more sockets, Shark 6 can power tools, appliances and camping gear on the go.

Pricing is from $55,900 through to $62,900 plus the usual costs.

This s a Motoring Minute

Im  Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the BYD Shark 6  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE BYD Shark 6 – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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. 

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 BYD Shark 6 expanded model range for 2026 appeared first on Motoring Minute.

I recently drove the dual cab HiLux Workmate version. This comes in a single cab tray back as well as dual cab trayback and pickup style. I drove the pickup model.

The main difference is the redesigned grill and bonnet. It has divided opinions, but I like it.

Inside the new model benefits from:

• a 12.3-inch touchscreen,
• wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability,
• DAB+ digital radio.
• embedded satellite navigation and voice commands.

Further technology upgrades for WorkMate include:

• a new 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster,
• two USB-C ports,
• a 12V accessory port and two-speaker audio system

Toyota has also improved the standard safety features across the range. So, the WorkMate gets a boost there as well.

Powered by a 2.8L turbo diesel engine and 6 Sp AT. This provides a healthy 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque from 1600 rpm.

This is a substantial improvement over the previous model and is class leading for work Utes.

One feature that is appreciated is the tailgate dampers to assist with opening and closing.

There is still the issue of having no lower tie points in the tub like many brands.

Pricing for the HiLux WorkMate Pickup is from $53,990 plus the usual costs, which for a work Ute is a little expensive.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Hilux WorkMate  – HERE.

TO LISTEN TO THE Hilux WorkMate – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Toyota Hilux WorkMate – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  Hilux WorkMate  are in good company. There is a LOT to choose from.

Potential choices could be Mazda BT-50 ,  KGM Musso, FOTON Tunland, GWM Cannon, Mitsubishi Triton GLX, Nissan Navara SL,

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. 

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

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The post Toyota HiLux Workmate 4WD Dual Cab Ute driven for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

An example of this is a Ute I drove recently the FOTON Tunland V7 2WD. This is a dual cab Ute with a tub.

The Tunland is a new entrant to the market. It sits between the normal sized Utes like a HiLux or Navara and the large American pickup trucks.

It does however have the Pickup truck feel about it in design. I like the big bold grill with vertically stacked LED headlights. They provide excellent illumination by the way.

Interior space and ambience is SUV like. Normal Ute buyers will be surprised by just how much room there is. Front seats are synthetic leather trim and provide a good balance of comfort and support.

The tub is large at 1577mm long and 1650 mm wide. Between the wheel arches there is 1240mm, enough to fit a pallet.

Tub depth is 530mm which is both good and bad. It allows for huge capacity but causes some access issues from the side.

Payload is a handy 1116 kg.

Power comes from a 2.0 L 48V mild hybrid diesel engine. There is 120kW of power and 450Nm of torque from 1500rpm available. This droves the rear wheels through a ZF 8 Sp AT.

Let’s look at the price. At just under $40,000 plus the usual costs its stunning value for money.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

You can download the full brochure HERE 

Readers can find more details about the FOTON Tunland V7 – HERE

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

FOTON Tunland V7 – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the FOTON Tunland V7 could look at :  Mitsubishi Triton, GWM Cannon, Isuzu D-Max 2.2L , Toyota HiLux , Nissan Navara SX, LDV T60, KGM Musso 

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. 

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

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This all new Ute was released late in 2024 and has a retro design.

In fact, its retro meets modern, without a lot of the painful safety stuff.

Im a bit if a fan of the boxy styling and it certainly attracted a lot of attention when I was driving it. Probably because people didn’t really know what it was.

It comes in three models, with a choice of two straight six 3.0L BMW engines, one diesel and one petrol. Thos is combed with an 8 speed ZF AT and permanent 4WD. Both engines provide plenty of power and torque with reasonable economy.

Around town it drives ok. With reasonably compliant suspension it doesn’t quite suffer the same bouncy ride many Utes have. One major issue though is the huge turning circle. That provided some interesting times in tight suburban car parks over the Christmas shopping rush.

I did use the Quartermaster to move a couple of loads of pavers, and it handled that quite well.

I’ve driven the INEOS Quartermaster around town, on motorways, outback highways, desert tracks, on forest trails, and beaches. I’ve also towed with it.

Overall, the Quartermaster makes an excellent outback tourer, whether towing or not. It feels at home out there.

While there are a couple of niggly issues, I have to say I love driving the Quartermaster.

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the INEOS Quartermaster Ute – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE INEOS Quartermaster Ute – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

INEOS Quartermaster Ute – Buyers could also look at:

Buyers of the  INEOS Quartermaster Ute are in unusual territory. There isn’t a real direct competitor.

However, I would suggest buyers also look at: Toyota LC79 series Utes, Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, Ford Ranger Super Duty.

At full price, the Quartermaster is nudging smaller American Pickup truck territory, but the internal space amongst them makes that a mute comparison.

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

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

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The post INEOS Grenadier Quartermaster Ute review for 2026. appeared first on Motoring Minute.

Im a bit of a fan of the Triton styling. It seems to blend the smooth and masculine trends just right.

My Ute came with a stylish front bull bar that wrapped around the lights as well as a tow bar. Ready for work and recreation.

Inside the GLX comes with hard wearing cloth trim, nine inch central touch screen and wireless smart phone connectivity. It also came with an old school key start and  vinyl floor covering with rubber mats. Very practical.

One feature I appreciated was the additional electronic lumbar support, perfect for my aging back.

Powering the Triton is a 2.4L bi-turbo diesel engine. This provides 150 kW of power and 470 Nm of torque. Peak torque comes in around 1500 rpm, which allows for controlled low speed work and easy cruising.

This drives through a six speed AT and easy select 4WD system. The GLX also comes with a rear diff lock.

This combination is simple, robust, and reliable.

Being a work Ute, it has heavy duty rear leaf springs, which can be a touch bouncy unladen. Payload is a bit over 1000kg.

Currently Mitsubishi is pricing the Triton GLX dual cab Pickup from $46,490 drive away and that’s excellent value.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the Triton GLX – HERE

TO LISTEN TO THE Triton GLX – RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Buyers of the Triton GLX  could also look at:

Buyers of the  Triton GLX  could also look at the following:   Isuzu D-MAX, Mazda BT-50, Nissan Navara, Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger, KGM Musso, GWM Cannon

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. 

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 GLX Pickup 4WD Ute driven for 2025. appeared first on Motoring Minute.