Launch
Foton Motor Philippines first introduced the Foton View Traveller in 2015. Four years following the success of the 16-seater variant, the 19-seater XL variant was launched. The 2019 generation model is the brand’s latest offering for this nameplate.
Decently comfortable, and immensely spacious
Exterior
On the exterior of the Foton View Traveller is a typically boxy design, similar to other large vans in the market. Up front is a rectangular grille with silver accents and square-shaped halogen headlamps. Under the bumper are fog lamps that come as standard in both variants. Front and center is the Chinese brand’s emblem. The base variant rides on 15-inch alloys while the top-spec variant has 16-inch alloy wheels.
The XL View Traveller variant comes with a bubble top that makes it taller than competing nameplates in its segment. It gives passengers the comfort of going in and out of the vehicle because it has more standing room. There is a 435mm difference between the lengths of the 16-seater and the 19-seater variant to make space for the three additional seats. However, the base variant is 140mm wider than its XL counterpart.
Interior
Inside the spacious cabin are seats wrapped in fabric with individually adjustable headrests. The dashboard clad in gray with touches of black is straightforward and equipped with the essential gauges plus a basic entertainment system. The Foton View Traveller also comes with a manual air-conditioning system with rear vents for added comfort of passengers.
Technology & Safety Features
The entertainment varies per variant. The 16-seater View Traveller is furnished with a 1 DIN AM/FM radio, CD player, and audio interface. It comes with AUX and USB ports for smart devices. On the other hand, the XL variant is supplied with a 2 DIN touchscreen LED AM/FM radio and MP5 playing capabilities. It has an SD card slot and ports for USB and AUX.
In terms of safety, Foton equipped the View Traveller with rear parking sensors, electronic brake distribution, and an anti-lock brake system.
Platform & Chassis
The Foton View Traveller is built with a body-on-frame chassis. Front suspension comes from double wishbones with leaf spring suspension at the rear. Stopping power is supplied by front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. It also comes with hydraulic power steering for the driver’s convenience in maneuvering the large vehicle.
Engine & Drivetrain
The Foton View Traveller is powered by a 2.8-liter 16-valve, turbocharged Cummins diesel engine that produces 148 hp and 325 Nm of torque. Its American-branded engine has a deep portfolio of running large private vehicles and commercial trucks. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission which sends power exclusively to the rear wheels.
