Launch
The Toano was introduced by Foton Motor Philippines, Inc. in 2018. Currently marketed with two variants, it is considered as one of the more affordable large vans in the local automotive market. The 15-seater Standard variant is priced at Php 1,988,000 while the Executive 11-seater top-of-the-line variant goes for Php 2,348,000.
Exterior
The Foton Toano was primarily marketed as a commercial utility vehicle, thus the boxy and straightforward façade. Up front is a grille accentuated with chrome elements, together with halogen headlights, fog lamps, and LED turn signals. On each side are curves and lines for aerodynamic functionality and design. Both Standard and Executive variants come with 16-inch steel wheels.
Interior
The Toano features a spacious cabin with plenty of headroom and enough legroom. Seats of the Standard variant are wrapped in fabric while the top-spec variant comes upholstered in leather. Both variants, however, are equipped with a motorized step board that comes out once the sliding door is opened. The base variant can accommodate 15 individuals, while the Executive variant has room for 11.
Its dashboard is clad in a neutral palette of black and light brown with silver accents. It comes with the basic gauges and controls for driving in ease. On the rear is a split door for the cargo storage area for hauling.
Platform & Chassis
Both the 11-seater Executive van and the 15-seater Standard variant of the Toano ride on McPherson with coil spring front suspension and leaf spring rear suspension. Stopping power comes from disc brakes all around. The Toano sports a body-on-frame construction.
Engine & Drivetrain
The Foton Toano is powered by a 2.8-liter Inline-4 Turbocharged Intercooled Cummins diesel engine attached to a 6-speed manual transmission. It can produce 161 hp and 360 Nm of torque with power sent to the rear wheels. The enhanced torque value enabled the vehicle to haul more weight with ease, even at full passenger capacity and loaded cargo.
Technology & Safety Features
The tech features of the Toano are basic yet functional. Its Executive variant comes with a 2-DIN touchscreen LED entertainment system with a radio player and DVD player that can be connected to a smart device via Bluetooth and USB. Meanwhile, the Standard variant has a single-DIN entertainment system with an audio interface, AUX-in, and USB port.
In terms of safety, both Toano variants are equipped with front and rear parking sensors, electronic brake distribution, anti-lock brake system, and keyless entry.
