FAW 290R12

Inside this Chinese truck is a decent and economical cabin set up. The highly plasticky and traditional looking dashboard features an analog instrument cluster and basic knobs and switches. This FAW truck does not come standard with an air conditioning system which is a major bummer since this truck is built for long haul trips and with our tropical climate, an air conditioning system is something that any driver and conductor would appreciate. The big windows and high headroom, somehow, makes up for the lack of an air conditioning system as it allows better air circulation. Another bonus is the bed sleeper at the rear of the cabin which is critical for when the driver needs to get some rest or a quick nap during the long trip. It can also double as cargo space but not as extra passenger seats due to lack of legroom.

The FAW 290R12 is a 12 wheeler truck that exemplifies the typical truck features. The Front façade is relatively flat with a wide windshield for a commanding view of the road. Below it is a muted black matte front grille with a large FAW badge slapped in the middle. On the lower bumper is the massive headlights. On the sides are two giant exterior side mirrors with big windows but not typically as wide as some of the trucks like Dongfeng. Built-in steps are also available for easy climbing in the cabin. At the rear of the cabin is a large glass window for added visibility and for natural light to flow through. This FAW truck rides on a set of 11R22.5 – 16 tires. The wheelbase measures 1,900 mm + 4,500 mm + 1,350 mm.

The FAW 290R12 is a 12 wheeler truck that exemplifies the typical truck features. The Front façade is relatively flat with a wide windshield for a commanding view of the road. Below it is a muted black matte front grille with a large FAW badge slapped in the middle. On the lower bumper is the massive headlights. On the sides are two giant exterior side mirrors with big windows but not typically as wide as some of the trucks like Dongfeng. Built-in steps are also available for easy climbing in the cabin. At the rear of the cabin is a large glass window for added visibility and for natural light to flow through. This FAW truck rides on a set of 11R22.5 – 16 tires. The wheelbase measures 1,900 mm + 4,500 mm + 1,350 mm.

Driving the FAW 290R12 is not for the inexperienced. A professional and experienced driver would find handling the FAW with relative ease. It’s massive size plus cargo means this heavy-duty truck needs careful maneuvering either on the road or when parking. The manual transmission allows for better fuel efficiency and responds to gear shifting sans with some split seconds delay which is quite noticeable. The engine is powerful enough to navigate both paved road and rougher terrain of the construction sites.

This FAW cargo truck is fitted with a WP10.290E32 9,726 cc engine. A 6 cylinder, a turbocharged, inter-cooled motor capable of delivering 290 hp of maximum power at 2,200 rpm and 1,160 Nm of peak torque at 1,400 – 1,600 rpm. The diesel engine is paired to a FAST 12JSD160TA manual transmission.

Safety features on this Chinese manufactured and assembled truck, just like on most medium to heavy-duty trucks are at the bare minimum to comply with safety standards. Adjustable driver seats and seatbelts are the only available safety features for the FAW 290R12. But the truck does come with better after-sales services and parts support to keep the FAW truck in tip-top shape and ensure that it is roadworthy. Though the Chinese FAW truck brand is relatively new to our ears, its local dealership partner—QSJ Motors has a well-established network that covers Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. It’s not as extensive as most of the more popular automotive dealership, but for commercial trucks standard, it is already well established. After-sales services such as diagnosis and repair, welding, warehousing, assembly, painting and body works, and customization are available services offered QSJ Motors. All of which are critical to prolonging the life of your FAW truck.

The FAW 290R12 is another Chinese made truck that is trying to make it to the local trucking segment. And like most Chinese made automotive, the main product differentiation it offers is the relatively affordable price tag. The brand’s partnership with a local dealership, QSJ Motors Philippines Inc, adds credibility to their product since QSJ specializes in trucks and trucking after-sales services. This means that when you purchase a FAW truck, you are guaranteed that there is a support system that will help you maintain and prolong the life of your investment.