Foton Gratour

Where the Gratour really takes the cake is in its interior, and not for the reasons you might think. In keeping with its simplistic exterior, the interior is likewise pretty straightforward. A standard molded plastic dashboard, your run-of-the-mill upholstered seats, backlit analog gauges and indicators, and analog controls for the windows and air-conditioning all make the Gratour’s interior seem like a step into the past. 

But for all of its minimalism, it maximizes itself in seating (anywhere between eight to a claimed potential of fourteen passengers for the Gratour MPV) and cargo capacity, all with just a few adjustments of its seats. This makes the Gratour the ideal minivan for the long haul.  

The Gratour is a boxy model that prioritizes function over aesthetics. This doesn’t mean that it looks bad, though. It’s decent enough, looks-wise, that you’d mistake it for your run-of-the-mill minivan. Its snub-nosed front fascia and large LED headlight, inset daytime running lights, coupled with fog lights give it an owl-like appearance. A mesh grill with the Foton crest and a robust-looking air dam and bottom grill add a bit of pizzaz to an otherwise straightforward build.

Measuring 4,386 mm long, 2,480 mm tall, and 1,677 mm wide, it’s sizeable enough for a standard minivan. But external looks can be deceiving, especially since it can carry more than what its general size would suggest. The Gratour is available in four variants and five color options (two colors have limited availability and may vary depending on the dealership).

Due to its passenger and cargo-oriented nature, the Gratour is naturally geared towards comfort. Its front MacPherson struts and five-link non-independent rear suspension are excellent at absorbing shock and providing a smooth ride. Responsive steering also allows for excellent control and maneuverability, making it great for short drives or long cruises.

All variants of the Gratour come with a single engine option – a 1.5L DAM 15 DR gasoline engine that runs on a manual transmission. The engine is capable of dishing out a decent 110 hp at between 142 to 152 Nm of torque. Beyond this, very little information can be gleaned, and it is best to check with your local dealership for more detailed info.

The Gratour doesn’t skimp on safety despite its overall simplicity. It comes with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) systems, on top of the standard safety features that are standard in all modern-day vehicles.  

If you’re looking for a practical vehicle that maximizes passenger seating and storage space, is affordable, reliable, and simple above all else, the Foton Gratour 2024 ticks all the boxes and will make for an excellent investment whether for general or business-oriented use.