MIAS 2026: GAC unveils new HEV lineup, launches GAC GS8 HEV

GAC Philippines is pushing further into electrified territory, unveiling the GS8 SUV, GN8 HEV, and E8 MPV as its latest hybrid offerings for the local market.

The GS8 isn't exactly a stranger to the Manila International Auto Show, but this year's appearance is a different story. For the first time, the seven-seater SUV shows up with an electrified powertrain, and it's a fairly capable setup on paper.

Powering the GS8 HEV is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder good for 187 hp and 320 Nm, paired with a front electric motor rated at 179 hp and 270 Nm, plus a smaller 53 hp and 121 Nm unit out back. Together, they form a dual-motor hybrid AWD system managed by a CVT. Energy storage comes from a 1.73 kWh Nickel-Metal Hydride battery, which is enough for a short all-electric run before the combustion engine kicks in.

Visually, you'd be hard-pressed to spot the difference between the HEV and the standard GS8 without a badge check. The main giveaway is a larger front grille. Everything else carries over, including the LED lighting and 20-inch wheels.

Step inside, and the feature list is just as generous as the non-hybrid version. You get a panoramic sunroof, three-zone climate control, full leather seating with cooled and power-adjustable fronts, a 14.6-inch touchscreen, a seven-inch digital display, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, LED ambient lighting, and a power tailgate with remote function. It's a well-specced cabin by any standard.

Shifting to the MPV segment, the E8 HEV slots into GAC's lineup between the gas-powered M6 Pro and the more premium M8 PHEV. At 4,920 mm long, 1,928 mm wide, and 1,760 mm tall, it's roughly in the same ballpark as most MPVs on the market in terms of footprint.

The E8 HEV borrows its powertrain from the Emkoo Hybrid, sharing the same 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine, electric motor, 1.8 kWh battery, and two-speed dedicated hybrid transmission. Combined output sits at 234 hp and 300 Nm of torque.

Dual sliding doors open up to a cabin built around second-row captain seats, and the top-spec trim adds massage function, power adjustment, and a dual sunroof. Other kit includes a dual-zone front climate control, an 8.8-inch instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, seven USB charging ports, and a 360-degree camera system.

Also on display at the GAC booth is the GN8 PHEV, a full-size luxury MPV stretching over 5,200 mm and clearly aimed at the executive crowd. The exterior leads with a bold "lion's mane" front grille, while the interior is fitted with second-row captain chairs offering heating, ventilation, and massage. A PM2.5 air filtration system with integrated fragrance and a Yamaha audio setup round out the comfort package.

Under the hood, the GN8 runs a 2.0-liter plug-in hybrid system producing over 240 hp, with a combined range of up to 1,038 km. Pure electric driving extends to 106 km, and fast charging can bring the battery to 80 percent in roughly 45 minutes. Level 2 ADAS and a 12.3-inch digital cluster are also part of the package.

The GS8 HEV, GN8 PHEV, and E8 HEV are on display at GAC's booth at the 2026 Manila International Auto Show, running from April 9 to 12 at the World Trade Center Manila.

Of the three, the GS8 HEV and GN8 PHEV are the ones walking away with an official launch. It carries a special introductory price of P2,338,000 while the official SRP is P2,488,000. The E8 HEV, meanwhile, is still on the horizon with a market launch expected later in the year. The GN8 PHEV is priced at P3,388,000. GAC is sweetening the deal with a limited introductory offer, bringing it down to P3,238,000 for those willing to commit early.