Foton Mars 9

The Foton Mars 9 positions itself as a "born boundless, breaking boundaries" full-size luxury pickup with higher specs and pricing than the Mars 7. Its imposing dimensions (5617×2090×1910/1955mm, 3355mm wheelbase) and angular,硬朗 design exude a muscular American pickup vibe, featuring a large black grille with cameras and radar, LED matrix headlights, and a贯穿式 taillight. Under the hood lies a 48V diesel hybrid system: an EU-Power 2.0T diesel engine (117kW, 450N·m) paired with a ZF 8AT transmission, delivering up to 15% fuel savings. The chassis includes front underguard protection, double-wishbone front suspension, and a rear integral bridge with multi-link setup (unlike Mars 7's leaf springs), enhancing handling and grip. The 1577×1650×530mm cargo bed comes with a liner,预留 power outlet, hydraulic tailgate struts, and a hidden ladder. Inside, the spacious cabin offers 10-way power-adjustable, ventilated/heated seats with memory, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 14.6-inch touchscreen with Tencent TAI4.0 system. It boasts L2+ ADAS with 12 functions, BorgWarner's intelligent 4WD with multiple modes, and 360° camera system. Notably, the rear seats are surprisingly comfortable with ample legroom, flat floor, heating, and a 220V 300W outlet, addressing typical pickup rear-seat shortcomings. Practical touches include a power tailgate step with lights, factory tow hook, wireless charging, and under-center-console storage.

The Foton Mars 9 gasoline version is a full-size pickup with an active grille that closes to warm the engine quickly and LED headlights. It measures 5617mm in length and 2090mm in width, larger than the Avenue Pursuer, giving it an imposing look. The rear suspension offers a choice between leaf springs (better for heavy loads) and multi-link independent suspension (more comfortable for long trips). The tailgate has a hydraulic strut and a step, though the step is slippery in icy conditions; the bed features a scratch-resistant coating and a roll bar. Inside, the seats have lumbar support, electric adjustment, and memory functions with good side support. The 12.3-inch instrument screen and 14.6-inch central screen run Tencent's ecosystem, including Tencent Maps, Tencent Video, and apps like WeChat and Kuwo Music, along with panoramic imaging and a transparent chassis. It has a wireless phone charging pad, an 8AT gearbox from ZF, an Eaton rear differential lock, and drive modes like standard, mud, sand, snow, sport, and economy. Four-wheel drive can be switched between 2H, 4H, and 4L. The spacious center console is wrapped in soft materials with wood trim, metal accents, and leather with orange stitching, plus a panoramic sunroof that can be voice-controlled. The rear seats have air vents, heating, and a 300W 220V power outlet. During a test drive on a Harbin track with snow tires, switching to sport mode made drifting around corners fun, though caution is needed as some drivers went off-track.

The Foton Mars 9 can be described as a pickup truck transformed into a multi-purpose product that also serves as an SUV. Its 48V diesel hybrid system enhances power and comfort, delivering a combined torque of 450N·m for quick mid-low speed response. The ZF 8AT transmission ensures smooth shifting, ideal for family use. With electronic power steering and a light throttle pedal, it handles like an SUV, easy even for women to maneuver. Off-road capabilities are strong, thanks to the BorgWarner intelligent 4WD system, and rear differential lock is available as an option for off-road enthusiasts.