Foton Toano

The cabin comes loaded with a ton of premium features that makes it a luxurious van for the passengers. It features comfortable seats that offer plenty of headroom and knee room to each and every passenger. In addition to that, it flaunts a huge LED TV and A/V suite, that makes sure the passengers stay entertained throughout the journey. 

Other comfort features include Air Conditioner, Heater, Rear A/C Vents, Power Windows Front, Adjustable Seats, Power Steering, Height Adjustable Driver Seat, Foldable Rear Seat, Low Fuel Warning Light, Remote Trunk Opener, Rear Reading Lamp, Cup Holders-Front, Rear Seat Headrest, Bottle Holder, Keyless Entry, Folding Table Rear, On-Board Computer and Central Console Armrest.

The design of the Foton Toano looks very classy as it has been specially designed by the same team that designed the original Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The design flaunts elegance and a bold look at the same time. It comes with a long wheelbase measuring at 3,750mm, which aids in offering a large cabin for the passengers. 

It also comes with a Side Stepper that makes it easier for the passengers to hop in the van. Other exterior features include Fog Lights Front, Alloy Wheels, Power Adjustable Exterior Rear View Mirror, Centrally Mounted Fuel Tank, Integrated Antenna, Chrome Grille, Chrome Garnish, Remote Fuel Lid Opener, and Adjustable Headlights.

It comes with a sturdy frame that provides a wonderful ride experience. There is a visible point in the pedal journey where the clutch is triggered. There is still no footrest, but this kind of feedback is useful for the pilot. The steering wheel seems sturdy to use, but the gear lever is often a bit ambiguous and has a long stroke. 

Visibility is excellent for all passengers, particularly the pilot, in the cabin. It comes with a strong seated stance along a high center of gravity and a lot of body roll in the corners.

Under the hood, it gets a 2800cc 4-cylinder  ISF Cummins CRDi turbo diesel motor, which is capable of churning out 160 hp of maximum power and 360 Nm of peak torque. The power is sent to the wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. According to the carmaker, the offered engine is a bulletproof unit. 

The same powertrain can also be found in the brand’s Toplander SUV and Thunder pickup truck. The latter is certified as Euro IV compliant, which makes sure that it meets the Government’s requirements in order to reduce the emissions. The engine is powerful enough but the gearbox feels a bit sluggish to operate.

When it comes to safety, The Toano does have a three-point seatbelt on all 15 of its passengers. Complementing this is the driver's airbag, and that's all of it. Having said that, such a large machine would require the ABS and the electronic brake force delivery it already has. 

Otherwise, there is a significant lack of protection, but, considering the price point, it is quite appropriate. A bit of a protective anomaly is a pair of hammers. The latter are present to crack the glass so that the passengers can get out if they find themselves stuck in the cabin.

The Foton Toano can not be a consumer’s everyday vehicle. Rather, it can be a business workhorse and work as a tour bus. So, if you are someone looking for a commercial vehicle that comes with a robust engine and spacious cabin then it can be a great option for you. The driving dynamics of this vehicle are pretty good and it also has a decent amount of turning radius that makes it easier for the driver to filter the huge van.