| Foton Xiangling M | |
|---|---|
2018 Foton Xiangling M | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Foton Motor |
| Also called | Foton Harabas TM300 (Exclusive body style for the Philippines) Foton TM300 Foton TM1 (selected export markets) |
| Production | 2018–present |
| Assembly | China |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Light commercial vehicle (micro truck / mini truck / urban logistics vehicle) |
| Body style |
|
| Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1.5 L DAM15L / DAW15KL inline-4 petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2600–2800 mm (variant dependent) |
Foton Xiangling M (Chinese: 福田祥铃M) is a series of light commercial vehicles produced by Foton Motor, designed for urban logistics, small cargo transport, and last-mile delivery applications. Introduced in 2018, the model forms part of Foton’s Xiangling micro-truck lineup and is positioned above traditional entry-level micro-trucks through improved cabin comfort, safety reinforcement, and modular cargo configurations.[1]
The Xiangling M platform has also been exported to overseas markets, notably Southeast Asia, where it is marketed under names such as the Foton TM300 and exclusive variants such as the Foton Harabas TM300 for the Philippines, reflecting localized branding and configuration differences while retaining the same underlying chassis architecture.[2]
History
Development background
The Xiangling series was developed by Foton’s commercial vehicle division as part of a broader strategy to upgrade China’s micro-truck segment, which had traditionally been dominated by low-cost utilitarian vehicles with limited comfort and safety features. The Xiangling M model was designed to introduce a more "car-like" driving experience, including improved cabin ergonomics, enhanced visibility through a cab over engine design, and structural reinforcement of the A- and B-pillars using high-strength steel.[1]
The model was also part of a shift in the Chinese light logistics market, where increasing urban delivery demand required vehicles with higher efficiency, improved safety, and better driver comfort compared with older micro-truck designs.
Market introduction (2018)
The Xiangling M was officially introduced in 2018 as a breakthrough product in the micro-truck segment with its passenger-car influenced styling and improved interior design.[1] Features include flat-front cab-over layout for improved visibility, reinforced body structure for crash safety compliance, modular cargo body options (cargo box, flatbed, and chassis variants), and upgraded interior materials compared with older micro-trucks.
The model also adopted a distinctive family-style front grille design and improved lighting integration, contributing to its more modern appearance compared with competing vehicles.[1]
Variants and facelift
Following its introduction, the Xiangling M platform expanded into multiple sub-variants, including the Xiangling M1 as base cargo variants, Xiangling M2 as enhanced payload and equipment variants, and Xiangling M Pro as the facelifted update with upgraded styling and cabin technology.[3]
Xiangling M1
Base cargo-oriented version with standard equipment and simplified interior.
Xiangling M2
Higher-capacity variant featuring upgraded suspension tuning, improved interior materials, and optional infotainment systems.[3]
Xiangling M Pro
Facelift generation introduced in the 2020s featuring redesigned exterior styling, upgraded cabin layout, and expanded configuration options aimed at younger commercial users.[4]
The M Pro facelift updates focused on incremental improvements in cabin infotainment systems, seating comfort and ergonomics, payload optimization, and emissions compliance (National VI / Euro VI equivalent in China). Interior features enhanced dashboard layout and material quality, reflecting the increasing expectations of younger commercial vehicle users.[4]
- 2021 Foton Xiangling M2 single cab
- 2023 Foton Xiangling M2 double cab
- 2023 Foton Xiangling M2 extended cab
Chassis and powertrain
The Xiangling M is built on a ladder-frame chassis optimized for cargo durability and load-bearing capability.
Common engine options include:
- 1.5 L DAM15L inline-four petrol engine
- 1.5 L DAW15KL inline-four petrol engine (emissions-compliant variants)
Power output varies by emissions standard and market configuration, typically in the range of approximately 80–85 kW (110–115 hp).[1][5][6]
Transmission is typically a 5-speed manual gearbox, paired with rear-wheel drive configuration.
Suspension setups generally include:
- Front: independent suspension (varies by configuration)
- Rear: leaf spring rigid axle for load capacity
Payload capacity ranges approximately from 1.0 to 1.8 tonnes depending on body style and configuration.
Overseas markets
Foton TM300 / Harabas TM300
In export markets such as the Philippines and parts of Southeast Asia, the Xiangling M platform is sold under the Foton TM300 nameplate, while the TM300 Harabas for the Philippines market is a compact commercial MPV body style designed for cargo and passenger versatility, highlighting its practicality and urban usability.[2]
The TM300 was introduced as a modern replacement for older light commercial vans overseas, emphasizing durability and low operating costs in commercial fleet applications.[7]
Differences between Chinese and export versions may include:
- Engine tuning variations (market-dependent)
- Cabin equipment levels
- Emissions calibration
- Seating configurations (cargo vs MPV variants)
Despite branding differences, these models share a common platform architecture.
- Foton Harabas TM300 Utility Van
- Foton TM1 2023
- Food truck variant
See also
References
- "漫谈福田祥菱M 变身微卡领头羊" (in Chinese). 卡车之家 (360che). 2018-06-05. Retrieved 2026-06-29.
- De Guzman, Marcus (2021-06-23). "LCV Review: Foton TM300 Harabas MPV". AutoIndustriya. Retrieved 2026-06-29.
- "福田祥菱M1小卡详解". 卡车之家 (360che). 2022-02-28. Retrieved 2026-06-29.
- "外观内饰再度升级!祥菱M Pro微卡图解" (in Chinese). 卡车之家 (360che). 2023-03-25. Retrieved 2026-06-29.
- "国六动力强劲可靠,祥菱仓栅运输车真棒". 卡车之家 (360che). 2020-02-24. Retrieved 2026-06-29.
- "福田祥菱M车型口碑". Autohome. Retrieved 2026-06-29.
- Ang, Ulysses (March 25, 2021). "Foton Harabas TM300 is ready for hard work". CarGuide Philippines. Retrieved 2026-06-29.
External links
- Official website (China)