Foton Gratour

The Foton Gratour iM6 belongs to the MPV/AUV carrier segment that’s also available in different configurations, like the Wingvan, F-Van, MPV, and the Dropside. Powering the Gratour across all variants is a 1.5-liter DAM15DR dual VVT gasoline engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Depending on the variant, the engine can produce either 110 horsepower and 142 Nm of torque, or 114 horsepower and 150 Nm of torque. The Foton Gratour price starts from ₱520,000 and ₱708,000.

History and Launch

The Foton Gratour V3 was initially launched in December 2014, while the Foton Gratour V5 minivan that made its debut during the 2015 Shanghai Auto Show. The Gratour iM6 variant was displayed at the 2019 Manila International Auto Show. It was then formally launched in February 2020. Meanwhile, the Gratour Midi Truck range comprises the Dropside, Wing Van, Patrol Jeep, Jeepney, and MPV variants.

Variants and Pricing

The price of the Foton Gratour in the Philippines starts at ₱520,000 for the entry-level 1.5 MT Dropside, while the top-of-the-line Foton Gratour 1.5 iM6 MPV is priced at ₱708,000.

The Foton Gratour iM6 MPV exterior adopts the same van-like silhouette that most if not all people carriers or MPV’s also embody.

The Foton Gratour dimensions are  4,700 mm Length x 1,780 mm Width x 1,820 mm Height, with 2,760 mm wheelbase.

It comes with large glass windows all-around that promotes visibility. A large chrome grille dominates the front fascia with the Foton logo in the middle.

Multi-reflector headlamps come with the design aesthetic of the front grille with integrated fog lamps on the lower bumper. The rear door is quite large and opens up nicely to make loading more convenient.

The Foton Gratour iM6 interior provides ample seating for 7 with leather clad seats that are supportive and comfortable. The second row comes with plush captain seats that are adjustable.

Despite its compact dimensions, Foton has managed to make every square inch count as there’s enough head and legroom. The Gratour iM6 offers plenty of cargo space right behind the third row seats. Should the need for more space arise, the third row seats can fold up that opens up the cabin.

Safety Features

Foton has nicely equipped the Gratour iM6 with basic safety features such as, driver and front passenger airbags. In addition to the ISOFIX anchors, there’s also a security alarm, immobilizer, backup sensors and four-wheel antilock disc brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution. A wide angle back up camera is hooked to the huge monitor to make backing up easier and a lot safer.

Technology Features

The Foton Gratour iM6 is equipped with a trip computer found on the instrument gauge panel. It contains the tachometer, fuel, and temperature gauge. To keep the occupants entertained, there’s a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system that comes with Bluetooth, AUX, and USB. The Gratour also features an automatic climate control system, a reverse camera and backup sensors.

Powering the Foton Gratour iM6 is a 1.5-liter, inline-4, 16-valve with dual VVT engine with a 5-speed manual transmission. The engine generates 115 hp and 150 Nm of torque that’s more than enough even when fully laden with passengers. Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels for the iM6 variant and the rest of the commercial vehicles.

The Foton Gratour’s iM6 comes with a McPherson strut front suspension and five-link non-independent rear suspension. These are tried and tested components that’s also relatively easy to fix or replace. For stopping power, the Gratour uses ventilated front and rear discs brakes with 15-inch alloy wheels and 195/60R15 tires.

Overall, the Foton Gratour iM6 is a very practical MPV. Great build quality at an affordable price remains its strong selling point. What’s more, there’s lots of space inside for seven with comfortable leather seats. Whether it is used to ferry the whole family or for business purposes, the Gratour iM6 is a capable performer.