Foton Tunland – key specification and pricing for the all-new hybrid FOTON TUNLAND, the newest player in Australia’s Ute segment.
Foton Tunland First Drive review – October 2025
Tunland – FOTON has returned to the Australian market with the Tunland Ute. This follows the recent release of the small sized truck.
The Tunland comes in four models, one engine and transmission and one 2WD and three 4WD versions.
Sitting between the traditional sized Utes like the D-Max and Navara, and the larger American Pickup trucks like the Silverado 1500 and F150.
FOTON Tunland specifications sheet can be found HERE
FOTON Tunland dimensions and weights can be found HERE
What is good? |
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What is not so good? |
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FOTON Tunland quick highlights
- Stylish design with premium interior
- Value for money is stunning.
- Top spec V9-S is $49,990 plus costs – WOW
- All models come with the same engine, transmission combination.
- 2.0L four cylinder turbo mild hybrid diesel engine
- 120 kW and 450 Nm
- Four models, one 2WD and three 4WD ‘s.
- Interior is genuinely spacious for 5 occupants.
- As a lifestyle Ute its ideal.
- Perfect for family adventures for the snow trips, days on the beach and finding that campung spot in the forest
- Underpowered for heavy duty towing though.
- My view is that about 2000-2200 kg is the ideal maximum weight for towing.
- Perfect for loading the mountain bikes in the tub.
- Ideal for smaller camper trailers, seadoos, smaller boats and pop top caravans.
- Its surprisingly good off road.
- Selectable 4WD and twin diff locks on the V9-S
- On road ride and handling is more SUV like than Ute.
- It’s the best ride and handling in its mid-sized Ute class.
- Its fun to drive on road. Select sport mode and keep it “on song” and you don’t really notice the low power output.
- With six selectable driving modes and selectable 4WD its easy to craft the driving experience.
FOTON Tunland details
What does the FOTON Tunland look like?
Its actually quite stylish. There are two distinct grill designs. One for the more commercially based V7 and one for the more leisure focussed V9 version.
The V7 features a more upright, squared-off grille with horizontal bars and a tough, utility-focused look that underlines its workhorse credentials.
In contrast, the V9 adopts a broader, more sculpted hexagonal grille with refined detailing, emphasising its lifestyle and more premium positioning.
Other visible differences are the headlight styling, muscular wheels, and arches on the V9, and running boards.
Both the V7 and V9 share an overall length of 5.61 meters and a wheelbase of 3.35 meters, with their primary differences coming in width and height. The V9 is slightly larger, measuring 2.09 meters wide and up to 1.95 meters tall (including roof rails on the V9-S 4×4), while the V7 sits at 2 meters wide and 1.91 meters tall, giving the V9 a more commanding presence.
The sculpted bonnet, sharp body lines, and aerodynamic front fascia reflect strength and efficiency, while LED headlamps with LED daytime running lamps provide a modern, premium touch across all models.
The side profile highlights its robust strength and striking lines, with off-road-style fender mouldings that reinforce the pickup’s tough and imposing aesthetic.
TUNLAND V7 – Built for Work
The TUNLAND V7’s bespoke front styling features a more upright frontal treatment with stacked headlights, a wide chrome-accented grille, and black lower bumpers, creating a muscular, assertive stance.
Key exterior highlights include:
- 18-inch black alloy wheels with six Y-shaped spokes, fitted with 265/70R18 Giti tyres, balancing durability, and load-carrying capacity
- Rear styling focused on utility, including a spray-in tub liner, integrated tie-downs, assisted tailgate with a chrome handle and functional load space.
- High 240mm ground clearance and rugged side steps that are designed to tackle challenging worksite and off-road conditions.
TUNLAND V9 – Built for Adventure
The TUNLAND V9 takes the Ute to the next level, combining premium, sporty styling with lifestyle and recreational versatility. Its bespoke front design projects a modern, confident presence, featuring a wider frontal stance with horizontal lighting treatment, a bold geometric style grille with mesh insert, and a colour-coded lower bumper.
Key features that set the V9 apart include:
- Full LED headlamps with LED daytime running lamps for superior visibility.
- 18-inch 12-spoke gloss black alloy wheels fitted with 265/70R18 Giti tyres
- Premium side steps, black protective over fenders and a rear sports bar for a sporty, adventurous look.
- Refined rear styling, including integrated taillights, a sculpted bumper, and a key lockable tailgate.
- Multi-Link Rigid Axle rear suspension for a smoother ride closer to an SUV feel and elevated off-road capability.
Paint choices
The TUNLAND range is available in eight durable paint finishes, including the standard Flare White, with optional metallic colours for $690: Galaxy Silver, Titanium Grey, Phantom Black, Fire Red, Diamond Blue, Lightning Purple, and Aurora Green.
What about the FOTON Tunland interior?
First impressions are of a premium SUV. Its spacious, well laid out and has little features like soft touch points for elbows etc.
Front seats are especially comfortable. The V7 comes with standard black trim with an optional brown leather like trim.
The upper V9 model highlights include:
- black piano accents,
- a leather-like-wrapped steering wheel, and,
- on V9-S models, a panoramic sunroof that floods the cabin with natural light,
While 6-way powered seating adjustment plus 4-way Lumbar function, heated and ventilated seats add another level of convenience and comfort.
With a large, thick leather steering wheel, which is both reach and height adjustable, it’s easy to find the perfect driving position for most drivers. As you would expect the steering wheel has the usual controls as well as paddle shift levers.
Driver ergonomics
In front of the driver is a 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster that has three zones. All are configurable for driver input.
Between the front seats is the centre console bin, which is quite large and has soft touch points on top. There are twin cup holders in front of that. There is a wide transmission control section. This houses the transmission lever, applicable drive mode controls, 4WD controls as well as buttons for parking sensors, cameras, diff locks etc. It’s truly a command centre.
In front and at the bottom of the central stack is a shelf, that doubles as phone storage or charger where applicable.
One feature I am appreciative of is the central stack with a row of buttons for A/C controls. It saves so much hassle trying to work your way through screen menus to simply change the fan speed or temperature.
Well done FOTON.
Above that is a 14.6 inch infotainment touch screen. – more on that later
Thoughtful storage solutions are found throughout the cabin, from cupholders and centre console compartments to rear storage, door pockets, and a sunglasses holder, keeping the space tidy and practical for both work and leisure.
Rear seats
Rear seats are where the Tunland excels. Generous room for three with plenty of side, head, knee, and leg room.
It’s like a large SUV back there. With the V9 model, there are also outer seat heaters, dual USB ports and power outlets.
For families there are two isofix and top tether points for the outer rear seats. And unlike a loft of Utes, there is actually room for a reverse facing baby seat.
Infotainment and Connectivity technology.
As mentioned, there is a large 12.3 inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6 inch central touch screen.
The amount of information you can access from these is phenomenal and voice recognition activated with “Hi Foton.
The clarity on the central screen is excellent. Touch sensitivity Is on par with its competition. The menu is intuitive once you work through it.
Finding the right screens to turn off all the intrusive safety features is relatively easy. I didn’t explore if there was a single shortcut you could enable. I will do that on my next drive.
Luxury touches include ambient lighting with 256 colour options, LED reading lights, and a panoramic sunroof on the V9-S, creating a bright, calm, and welcoming cabin atmosphere.
Climate control is simple and effective, with single-zone automatic air-conditioning on the V7 and dual-zone on the V9, complemented by rear vents and windshield demisters front and rear.
TUNLAND’s intelligent cockpit also supports modern connectivity and convenience, a standard integrated dash-cam.
Engine and drivetrain.
At the heart of the range is FOTON’s 2.0-litre Aucan diesel engine, paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and ZF 8-speed automatic transmission.
The Aucan diesel delivers 120 kW of power at 3,600 rpm and 450 Nm of torque between 1,500 and 2,400 rpm, providing responsive performance in varied conditions.
With a hybrid system tuned to provide extra torque low in the rev range, giving smooth, immediate power for take-off, towing, or heavy loads.
As the 48-volt assist tapers off, the variable-geometry turbocharger takes over, delivering a strong, linear surge that ensures effortless performance even under load.
Key benefits include:
- Strong, accessible torque for demanding tasks
- Smooth, efficient performance for work and recreation
- Responsive, comfortable shifting for driver confidence
Combined with Bosch high-pressure common-rail injection and water-cooled charge-air cooling, this setup maximises efficiency and smooth power delivery while meeting strict Euro 6 emissions standards.
Fuel consumption is rated at 8.0 L/100 km and CO₂ emissions of 211 g/km. Thanks to integrated Auto Start-Stop, regenerative energy recovery, and an ultra-high-pressure combustion process, which delivers a thermal efficiency of 50 percent.
The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission further enhances drivability, achieving 99.7% mechanical efficiency and delivering seamless acceleration, responsive shifting, and excellent fuel economy.
On 4×4 models, a locking rear differential will automatically disengage above 38 km/h, giving enhanced traction and control in challenging conditions. While top spec V9-S models add a locking front differential.
4WD, Load and Towing capability
Obviously, there are three models that 4WD capability. On the drive program we tackled some dirt roads, forest trails, and some off road tracks.
That is what you may expect this Ute to be used for. And it handled it with ease.
On a number of trail drainage ramps, I expected the belly to scrape but it never did.
The V7 and V9 L have a rear diff lock, with the V9 S having both front and rear difflocks. *remember the price of $50,000 plus costs).
The clearance and other measures are in the table below.
Payload varies by model, from 995kg (V9) to 1,115kg (V7-C 4×2), making it a versatile partner for trades, fleets, and recreational users alike.
The load tray is designed with practicality in mind, measuring.
- 1,577mm long,
- 1,650mm wide, and
- 530mm high, with
- 1,240mm between the wheel arches –
- perfectly sized to accommodate a standard pallet
Tunland is rated to tow 3500 kg with a 350 kg tow ball rating.
Here is the classic “just because the marketing material says it can – doesn’t mean you should.”
In reality the Tunland is underpowered for heavy duty towing. However, for lifestyle towing its ideal. My feeling is that about 2,000-2,200 kg will top this Ute out for comfortable towing.
That allows a lot of camper trailers, smaller boats, jet skis, and smaller caravans.
Chassis & Suspension
At its core, the TUNLAND is built on a ladder-frame chassis derived from FOTON’s extensive commercial vehicle expertise, providing the strength and durability demanded by both work and adventure.
The chassis is paired with a dual-wishbone front suspension and a rear setup tailored to the model: a leaf spring rigid axle on the V7 for heavy-duty work, or a multi-link coil rear suspension on the V9 for enhanced ride comfort and handling.
A minimum turning circle of 13.5m ensures easy manoeuvring, even in tight spaces, while three driver-selectable electric power steering modes provide precise control and responsive feedback in every driving situation.
Extensive multi-body dynamics simulations and meticulous tuning give the TUNLAND SUV, level stability and smoothness, meeting the standards expected in mid-to-high-end pickups.
FOTON’s engineers also prioritised noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), resulting in a quiet cabin, creating a noticeably calmer and more enjoyable environment for driver and passengers alike.
Braking & Dynamics
The TUNLAND range is equipped with a robust braking system engineered for confidence across work and recreational use.
Ventilated front and rear discs to deliver reliable stopping power, supported by a suite of electronic aids including:
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS),
- Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and
- Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC).
These systems work seamlessly with the TUNLAND’s suspension and steering calibration to help ensure stable, predictable braking performance, even when carrying heavier loads, towing, or tackling more demanding off-road conditions.
FOTON Tunland Model details
The all-new FOTON TUNLAND is engineered to sit perfectly between workhorse toughness and lifestyle comfort. With it’s unique ‘Goldilocks’ proportions, robust diesel-hybrid powertrain, and a feature set designed for both the job site and weekend escapes.
TUNLAND delivers the ideal balance of strength, balanced performance, and everyday versatility. This positioning underpins every aspect of the range, from capability and safety to comfort and technology.
Pricing & Range – V7 & V9
The all-new FOTON TUNLAND range brings sharp pricing designed to give buyers more Ute for their money. At launch, four well-equipped variants will be available, each powered by FOTON’s 2.0-litre Aucan diesel with 48-Volt mild-hybrid technology, paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission.
The line-up includes:
- TUNLAND V7-C 4×2 – $39,990 (MLP): A fleet-friendly workhorse with leaf-spring rear suspension, 1,115kg payload capacity, and the durability demanded by trades.
- TUNLAND V7-C 4×4 – $42,990 (MLP): Adds selectable part-time four-wheel drive (2H, Auto, 4H, 4L), a rear differential lock, and a payload capacity of 1,050kg.
- TUNLAND V9-L 4×4 – $45,990 (MLP): A comfort-focused model featuring multi-link coil suspension for smoother ride quality and enhanced convenience/comfort features such as heated front seats. All V9 models feature a 995kg payload capacity. Styling differences include a unique front design, premium sidesteps, and wheels.
- TUNLAND V9-S 4×4 – $49,990 (MLP): The flagship model, combines rugged performance with luxury features including roof rails, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seating, plus heated second row outboard seats and electric sunshade.
FOTON Tunland model walk
V7-C 4×2:
Interior
- 12-3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 14.6-inch infotainment screen
Collision Avoidance Features
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electric Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Hill-Hold-Control (HHC)
- Hill Descent Control (HDC)
- Auto Vehicle Hold (AVH)
- Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
- Panoramic 360 Degree View Camera with Integrated Dash Camera4
- Front & Rear Parking Sensors
Advanced Driver Assistance (ADAS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian & Cyclist
- Alert (AEB)
- Front Collision Warning (FCW)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Pedestrian Collision Warning (PCW)
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
- Lane Centring Control (LCC)
- Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
- Emergency Signal System (ESS)
- Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
- Door Open Warning (DOW)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Trailer Stability Assist (TSA)
Lighting and Convenience
- Daytime Running Lights (DRL), dusk-sensing LED headlights with Follow Me Home, LED taillights
Plus
- 2WD
- Highway Terrain tyres
- Leaf spring rear suspension
- Manual-fold mirrors
- Single-zone A/C
- 4 speakers
- Front USB-A x2
- Manual driver’s seat (6-way)
- Manual passenger seat (4-way)
- Driver window auto up/down
- Spray In-tub liner
- Voice recognition
V7-C 4×4 adds/differences:
- Part-time 4WD
- Selectable Four-Wheel Drive Modes – 2H/Auto/4H/4L
- Additional drive modes: Sand / Mud / Snow
- Rear differential lock
- All-terrain tyres
- 4×4 badge on rear quarter
V9-L 4×4 adds/differences:
- Unique front-end styling
- Premium Sidestep
- Wheel cladding
- Heated mirrors
- Power folding mirrors
- 18” Premium Wheel Design
- Sports bar & lockable tray
- Dual zone A/C
- 6 speakers
- x2 Rear USB-A Ports
- V2L Power Socket 220V/300W Power Outlet
- Automatic Anti-Glare Mirror
- Wireless Charger
- Heated front seats
- Driver’s seat – powered 6-way & 4-way lumbar
- Front passenger seat – Powered 4-way
- Multi-link coil suspension
V9-S 4×4 adds/differences:
- Driver Monitoring System – Distraction & Fatigue Warning
- Front differential lock
- Position memory mirrors
- Roof rails
- Panoramic sunroof
- Privacy rear glass
- LED rear reading light
- All windows – auto up/down
- Facial recognition
- Ventilated front seats
- Driver seat – memory
- Heated second row seats (Outboard only)
What about Safety?
Every model in the TUNLAND range is underpinned by a comprehensive suite of safety and technology features.
Standard equipment includes:
- eight airbags,
- a Panoramic 360-Degree View Monitor,
- Transparent Chassis Monitor,
- front and rear parking sensors,
The V9-S takes this further, introducing.
- a Driver Monitoring System (DMS) with distraction and fatigue warnings,
- plus, three-profile facial recognition
- that automatically adjusts vehicle settings to suit multiple drivers.
Active Safety
The all-new FOTON TUNLAND V7 and V9 raise the bar for safety in the light commercial segment, combining a comprehensive suite of active and semi-autonomous driving technologies typically found in premium passenger vehicles.
A standout feature is the integrated dash-cam, providing continuous recording to capture critical moments on the road and enhancing peace of mind for drivers and fleet operators alike. This system works seamlessly alongside the TUNLAND’s expansive set of safety technologies.
Comprehensive Safety Suite
Standard across the TUNLAND range, drivers benefit from:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection,
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC),
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW),
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA),
- Lane Centering Control (LCC),
- Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR),
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM),
- Door Open Warning (DOW),
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and
- Trailer Stability Assist (TSA).
These systems work together to provide confidence, control, and peace of mind across all driving conditions – whether on city streets, highways, or rugged work sites.
Standard Semi-Autonomous Driving Technology
The TUNLAND goes beyond traditional Ute safety with semi-autonomous capabilities, achieving Level 2.5 autonomous driving performance.
Key systems include:
- Adaptative Cruise Control (ACC),
- Rear Cross Traffic Detection (RTCA),
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB),
- Lane Centering Control (LCC), and
- Driver Monitoring System (DMS) with fatigue detection.
Together, these systems create an intelligent driving environment that actively supports the driver, reduces fatigue, and enhances safety for both occupants and vulnerable road users.
Standard Collision Avoidance & Intelligent Dynamics
FOTON has integrated a robust suite of mechanical and electronic systems designed to maintain stability and control in any scenario, including:
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Hill-Hold Control (HHC) and Hill Descent Control (HDC)
- Auto Vehicle Hold (AVH)
- Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS)
The TUNLAND’s ADAS package combines collision avoidance, lane guidance, and traffic awareness into a single, intelligent system:
- Front Collision Warning (FCW) & Pedestrian Collision Warning (PCW)
- Emergency Signal System (ESS)
- Trailer Stability Assist (TSA)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) & Lane Centering Control (LCC)
- Blind Spot Detection (BSD) & Door Open Warning (DOW)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
Passive Safety
The FOTON TUNLAND V7 and V9’s expansive safety suite extends into passive safety, combining a robust chassis, reinforced safety cell, and an expansive suite of airbags to protect occupants in every scenario.
Safety is built into the TUNLAND from the ground up. Its high-strength body structure incorporates 1500MPa anti-collision side beams, a reinforced safety cell, and an innovative front-end collapse design, all engineered to absorb and dissipate impact forces.
High strength steel is used in critical areas of the frame, giving drivers and passengers confidence that the vehicle can withstand demanding conditions.
Comprehensive Airbag Protection
At the heart of the TUNLAND’s passive safety system is its standard centre airbag, a feature traditionally reserved for premium passenger vehicles. This innovative airbag sits between the front seats, helping to prevent side-to-side collisions between occupants in the event of an impact.
The centre airbag works in concert with dual front airbags, dual side airbags, dual full-length curtain airbags, and a driver’s knee airbag, delivering 360-degree protection for drivers and passengers. Together, this comprehensive suite of airbags significantly reduces the risk of injury in collisions, bringing premium-level occupant safety to the Ute segment.
Advanced Safety Features and Occupant Protection
TUNLAND models also include a range of passive safety systems designed to protect occupants and assist drivers in emergency scenarios:
- Three-point ELR seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
- Seat belt reminders for front and rear passengers
- Height-adjustable seat belts for driver and front passenger
- Child seat anchor points for three seats, including two ISOFIX-compliant restraints.
- Automatic crash unlocking and fuel cut function.
Servicing, Warranty & Specifications
All TUNLAND variants are backed by FOTON’s seven-year, unlimited kilometre warranty and seven-year roadside assistance, providing peace of mind for private and fleet buyers alike. Service intervals are set at 15,000km/12 months, with competitive capped-price servicing.
Foton Tunland final thoughts
This is a very interesting Ute.
Its stunning value for money will have a lot of buyers questioning their choices.
The interior comfort, space and ambience is well above the other mod sized Utes. Its SUV like.
On road ride and handling is surprisingly good.
Off road the Tunland will get owners to most places they may want to go. It’s ideal for forest tails, dirt roads, beach driving and even snow trips.
Lifestyle buyers will appreciate the towing capability for small to medium weights.
The one major flaw is that it is underpowered. Torque is ok, but 120kW at times feels like its struggling. Say 10% of the time.
The question for buyers is that enough to put them off or is the 90% and the outstanding pricing enough to seal the deal.
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,
Foton Tunland |
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Model |
Tunland V9 S |
| Model Price | $49,990 MLP* |
| Engine | 2.0L 4 Cyl Turbo Diesel Euro 6 48V MHEV |
| Drivetrain | 8 Sp ZF Sports AT Dual range 4WD |
| Power | 120kW @ 3,600rpm |
| Torque | 450Nm @ 1,500-2,400rpm |
| Safety | Unrated ANCAP |
| 0-100kmh / Top Speed | TBA |
| CO2 Emissions | 211 g/km |
| Economy ADR | 8.0L/100km / 76L capacity |
| Economy on test | N/A |
| Max Range | N/A |
| Range on test | N/A |
| Servicing | 12Mth / 20,000km 7 Yrs. Capped Price |
| Warranty | 7yr/ 110,000 km |
| Roadside Assist | 1Yr. conditional roadside assist |
*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). Pricing is from Redbook as at date of article or from the manufacturer’s website.
Overall Rating |
88/100 |
| Behind the Wheel | 9 |
| Comfort | 9 |
| Equipment | 9 |
| Performance | 9 |
| Ride and Handling | 9 |
| Practicality | 9 |
| Fit for Purpose | 8 |
| AWD/Towing Capability* | 8 (4WD 5/5 Towing 3/5) |
| Technology/connectivity | 9 |
| Value for Money | 10 |
*Towing and AWD capability is measured against similar vehicles in the same class.
Dimensions |
Tunland V9 S |
| Overall Length | 5617 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3355 mm |
| Width | 2090 mm |
| Height | 1955 mm |
| Wheels | 18×7.5J Alloy |
| Tyres | 265/70 R18 116T |
| Full size spare | Yes |
| Max ground clearance | Up to 240 mm |
| Wading Depth | 700 mm |
| Approach | 28.0 degrees |
| Rampover | 21.0 degrees |
| Departure angle | 26.0 degrees |
| Turning Circle KTK | 13.5 m |
| Tub Length | 1577 mm |
| Tub width arches | 1240 mm |
| Tub width | 1650 mm |
| Tub Depth | 530 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2315 kg |
| Payload (kg) | 995 kg |
| GVM (kg) | 3310 kg |
| GCM | 6810 kg |
| Towing Capacity (braked) | 3500 kg |
| Tow Ball rating | 350 kg |
| Maximum Front Axle Load kg | TBA kg |
| Maximum Rear Axle Load kg | TBA kg |
