Foton Jamaica has officially entered the full-size pickup segment with the grand launch of its flagship model, the Tunland V9, at its Oxford Road showroom on January 24. The introduction marks a strategic expansion for the brand into a premium and previously underserved sector of the Jamaican automotive market.
Under the theme of ‘dominance,’ the V9 makes a significant visual statement with dimensions that align more closely with North American trucks than traditional compact pickups. Jhanelle Wagstaffe, Senior Sales Manager at Foton, expressed strong enthusiasm for the model’s arrival, stating it “speaks dominance, presence, versatility” and is an “excellent addition” to the existing lineup.
Technologically, the Tunland V9 is engineered as a powerhouse. It features a sophisticated drivetrain combining a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This configuration is designed to deliver robust performance and enhanced fuel efficiency through electric torque assistance and energy recovery. Power is managed by a standard eight-speed automatic transmission and a capable four-wheel-drive system complete with a locking rear differential and multiple off-road modes.
A key differentiator from competitors is its rear suspension. Departing from the conventional leaf-spring design typical for work-focused trucks, the V9 employs a multi-link coil setup, which Foton claims provides a notably smoother ride and superior handling without sacrificing utility.
The vehicle is built for dual purposes: serious work and premium comfort. It boasts a spray-coated bed capable of handling a full pallet and payloads up to one tonne, alongside a formidable 3.5-tonne towing capacity. Practical work features include integrated side steps and a damped tailgate with an auxiliary step.
Inside, the V9 transitions into a luxury cabin. It is outfitted with powered leather seats, ambient lighting, a 12.3-inch digital driver’s cluster, and a massive 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Apple CarPlay. This screen also serves as the display for a standard 360-degree camera with a built-in dash-cam. Safety is addressed with six airbags and a suite of collision warning systems, while driving aids like Adaptive Cruise Control and Hill Descent Assist enhance both on and off-road experiences.
The Tunland V9 now sits atop the Foton range in Jamaica, joining the compact G7 pickup, Miler truck, and C-series buses. With the smaller G7 already receiving a favourable market response, company executives are optimistic that the V9 will achieve similar success, appealing to both commercial buyers seeking a heavy-duty workhorse and individuals desiring a refined, luxurious daily driver.