Foton M290-T

Engine and gearbox

The Foton Aumark M290-T is powered by a Yuchai YC493ZLQV1 engine, a 2,771 cc four-cylinder diesel with direct injection, a turbocharger and an intercooler, built to Euro III emissions. It makes 102 hp (76 kW) and 225 Nm. A WLY 5G32 five-speed manual gearbox with a single dry-plate clutch drives the rear axle. Master Motor quotes a top speed of 90 km/h, a maximum climbing ability of 25 per cent and a turning circle of 5.8 m. News reports from its July 2024 launch describe the M290-T as the successor to the long-running M280. No official fuel-economy figure is published.

Size and practicality

Overall length is 5,440 mm, width 2,060 mm and height about 2,300 mm, on a 2,880 mm wheelbase. Gross vehicle weight is 6,000 kg and kerb weight is 2,533 kg, so the rated payload is 3,467 kg. The front axle is rated at 2.4 tons and the drive axle at 4.5 tons, with leaf-spring suspension and a stabiliser bar. It runs on 7.00 R16 tyres and carries an 80-litre aluminium fuel tank. The cab seats three people. Master Motor does not list a standard load-body size, because the chassis is offered for different body applications.

Equipment

There is a single 4×2 version. Brakes are hydraulic with ABS, and the steering is hydraulic power-assisted. Inside you get fabric seats, an MP3 player with two speakers, a multi-function display showing maintenance and fuel-use information, and warnings for an unfastened driver’s seat belt and an open door. The brochure does not list air conditioning, power windows or a reverse camera, so the cabin is more basic than the newer Highlander’s.

Warranty

No warranty terms are published on the official website. Ask the dealer for the written warranty, including how long it lasts and whether it is limited by kilometres.

Price and which version to buy

Master Motor does not publish a price for the M290-T on its website, so get a current ex-factory quote from an authorised dealer before deciding. Opinion: as there is only one version, the real choice is between this truck and the Highlander. Their official payloads are almost identical, but the M290-T has the bigger engine, more torque, a heavier-rated drive axle and a higher 6-ton GVW, which may suit operators on tougher routes. The Highlander has the better cabin and front disc brakes. If both are offered at a similar price, test-drive each with a typical load before signing.