Foton Tunland V7 Turbo Diesel Hybrid Review: From Manila’s Streets to Mountain Dirt, A Pickup That’s Ready for More

In the Philippines, diesel pickups have always been the dependable choice, whether you’re hauling construction materials for work, loading up for a weekend out of town, or just dealing with the daily grind. I’ve always seen them as the go-anywhere, do-anything kind of vehicle that fits right into our lifestyle. So, when I got the chance to try out the Foton Tunland V7 Turbo Diesel Hybrid, I was curious to see how it stacked up.

It’s a full-size pickup, and from the moment I got behind the wheel, I could tell it was built to handle serious weight and bulk without breaking a sweat. Whether it’s gear for a business run or personal cargo, the Tunland V7 makes loading and hauling feel effortless. We only had it for a short time, but even that was enough to get a real taste of what it’s capable of. From crawling through Metro Manila traffic to climbing dirt trails in the mountains, it left a solid impression.

After all, Foton has long been at the forefront of diesel mobility in the Philippines—trusted for its durability in hot, wet, and even flood-prone conditions. From rugged work trucks to dependable transport vehicles, Foton has played a key role in delivering goods and mobility across the archipelago, helping Filipinos move forward through every terrain and season.

City Cruising: Big Truck, Smooth Moves

Driving a full-size pickup through Manila’s tight streets and unpredictable traffic might sound like a chore—but the Tunland V7 handled it with surprising grace. The 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine, paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system, delivered 161 hp and a hefty 450 Nm of torque. That torque came in handy during low-speed crawls and quick overtakes, especially when navigating EDSA’s stop-and-go rhythm.

The 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters added a sporty touch, letting us take control when needed. And despite its size, the Tunland V7 felt composed—thanks to its well-tuned suspension and confident steering. The leaf-spring rear setup reminded us of this truck is built for work, but it didn’t punish us with a harsh ride.

One of the first things that caught my eye with the Foton Tunland V7 was its lighting setup—it’s bold, modern, and gives the truck a real sense of presence. The LED headlights aren’t just for show; they cut through Manila’s chaotic night traffic with clarity, and the daytime running lights add a sharp, confident edge to its face. It’s the kind of front-end that makes you feel like you’re driving something substantial.

But it’s the taillights that really surprised me. Sleek and well-sculpted, they light up with a crisp glow that feels more premium than I expected. Whether I was parked on a mountain trail or waiting at a city intersection, the lighting design made the Tunland V7 stand out. It’s a small detail, but one that adds a lot to the truck’s personality—and it definitely left an impression.

Inside, the cabin was a pleasant surprise. The power-adjustable front seats with cooling and heating for convenience, automatic climate control, and leather-wrapped steering wheel made it feel more premium than expected.

The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.6-inch infotainment screen added a modern touch, though it’s worth noting that the system doesn’t support native Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Instead, it uses CarbitLink, a phone mirroring feature that allows basic screen projection. While functional, it lacks the deeper integration and voice command capabilities of full smartphone connectivity platforms—something tech-savvy drivers may want to consider.

Step inside the Foton Tunland V7 and you’re immediately greeted by a cabin that feels expansive, refined, and thoughtfully designed for both comfort and utility. Whether you’re navigating city streets or heading out on a weekend adventure, the interior space gives you room to breathe—ample legroom, wide seats, and a layout that doesn’t feel cramped even with a full crew onboard. The brown leather upholstery adds a warm, upscale touch, while the piano black accents on the gear console elevate the overall aesthetic.

The rear seats of the Foton Tunland V7 offer generous space and comfort, complete with cooling air vents, a socket for standard electronics, a USB-A charging port, and ISOFIX anchors—ensuring back passengers stay cool, connected, and secure throughout the ride.

One standout feature that truly impressed me was the center cubby with its built-in cooling vent. In the heat of tropical weather, this little detail makes a big difference. You can pop in a can of soda or bottled water, and it stays refreshingly cool throughout the drive—no need to lug around a portable fridge or cooler. Even better, there’s a small detachable tray inside that also gets cooled, which I found perfect for storing a few chocolate bars. On longer drives, especially when I needed a quick energy boost, having those chilled treats within reach was a game-changer.

It’s a thoughtful feature that adds real-world convenience to the Tunland V7’s already impressive interior. It’s a clever, practical addition that shows Foton understands what Filipino drivers really need.

The gear shifter itself is styled like something out of a cockpit—aircraft-inspired, ergonomically placed, and set in a sleek piano black console that adds a premium, high-tech feel to the driving experience.

Add to that a suite of driver-assist features and a multi-angle camera system, and parking this full-size pickup becomes surprisingly easy, even in tight urban spaces. The Tunland V7 doesn’t just look good—it’s built to make every drive smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable.

Mountain Dirt: Where It Found Its Groove

Once we left the city behind and hit the dirt trails of the nearby mountains, the Tunland V7 transformed. The 4×4 drivetrain and terrain management system (with modes like eco, sport, sand, snow, slippery, and rocky) gave us the confidence to push further.

On loose gravel and uneven paths, the truck stayed planted, and the torque-rich engine made climbs feel effortless.

The spray-on bed liner, inner tie downs, and sidestep weren’t just cosmetic—they were practical, especially when loading gear or stepping in and out during trail stops.

 

The eggplant/aubergine exterior color paired with blacked-out 18-inch alloy wheels turned heads at every stop, literally. It’s bold, unique, and unapologetically different.

Final Thoughts: Built for More

We didn’t get to take the Tunland V7 across Luzon, Visayas, or Mindanao—but based on what we saw in Manila and the mountains, it’s ready. Whether you’re hauling gear, navigating city chaos, or chasing dirt trails, this pickup feels like it belongs.

At ₱1,758,000 for the 4×2 AT Hybrid and ₱1,888,000 for the 4×4 AT Hybrid, the Tunland V7 offers serious value for those who want a rugged, tech-equipped truck that doesn’t shy away from a challenge.

Here’s hoping Foton Philippines gives us the chance to take it further—because this truck deserves a nationwide adventure.