Cars
HYUNDAI KONA’s Comeback Packs a Green Punch
Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) has officially brought back the KONA to the local market—this time as a hybrid. The launch of the all-new KONA Hybrid took place at Bonifacio High Street Amphitheater in BGC, marking Hyundai’s third year in the country under its new local distributor.
Originally introduced globally in 2017 and to the Philippine market in 2018, the KONA has collected accolades for its design and performance. Now, it returns as a more futuristic, electrified version aimed at modern Filipino drivers looking for a tech-forward, fuel-efficient crossover.
The new KONA Hybrid adopts a sharper and more aerodynamic look. A full-width LED horizon lamp, 3D bumper accents, and sleeker body lines define the new aesthetic. The Premium trim features 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, roof rails, and a sunroof, enhancing both its practicality and presence on the road.
Under the hood is a 1.6-liter hybrid engine mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. It delivers 141 PS and 144 Nm of torque and includes Smart Regenerative Braking and e-Motion Drive technology for improved efficiency and ride comfort in both city and highway settings.
The interior showcases a modern design highlighted by a panoramic display setup featuring two 12.3-inch screens—one for the instrument cluster and another for infotainment. Also included are an electronic gear selector, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, wireless phone charging with cooling, USB-C ports, and foldable cup holders. The second-row seats fold flat, expanding cargo space to 1,241 liters. A Smart Power Tailgate allows height customization for low-clearance garages.
Safety is a key highlight, with Hyundai’s SmartSense driver-assistance suite. Features include Forward Collision Avoidance, Lane Keeping Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Blind Spot View Monitor, and a 360-degree Surround View Monitor.
The KONA Hybrid comes in two variants: the GLS priced at Php 1,528,000 and the Premium at Php 1,688,000. Available colors include Neoteric Yellow, Atlas White, Abyss Black Pearl, Cyber Gray, and Meta Blue Pearl.
With this release, Hyundai adds another nameplate to its growing list of electrified options in the country, joining the SANTA FE, TUCSON, and ELANTRA hybrids—positioning the KONA as a key option for Pinoys exploring greener mobility.
Subaru has officially brought in the sixth-generation Forester, marking the compact SUV’s debut as a full hybrid in the Philippine market. Motor Image Pilipinas, the brand’s exclusive distributor, hopes this launch will reenergize its presence among family SUVs.
At the core is the second-generation e-Boxer system, Subaru’s first strong hybrid setup. It pairs the familiar 2.5-liter Boxer engine with two electric motors. The gasoline unit generates 164 hp and 209 Nm, while the motors contribute up to 122 hp and 270 Nm, combining for a maximum 197 hp. That makes it the most powerful Forester since the turbocharged XT. A 1.1-kWh lithium-ion battery enables short stints of all-electric driving, while a 63-liter tank helps stretch range to 1,000 km.
Despite the hybrid tech, Subaru sticks to its roots. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a Lineartronic CVT come standard, with off-road aids like Dual X-Mode, Hill Descent Control, and Active Torque Vectoring intact. The SUV also benefits from the tougher Subaru Global Platform, which is now 10 percent stiffer thanks to a full inner frame design. Steering precision improves with a dual-pinion system adapted from the WRX.
Design-wise, the new Forester looks sharper and cleaner but remains recognizable. The Philippine-spec 2.5 i-S e-Boxer Hybrid wears 19-inch alloys, roof rails, and C-shaped LED headlights with cornering lamps. A panoramic sunroof and a hands-free tailgate are standard. A Forester-exclusive shade, River Rock Pearl, joins the color palette.
Inside, Subaru blends rugged with refined. Scratch-resistant panels meet suede-and-leather seats, both front units equipped with power adjustment. Comfort and convenience come from dual-zone climate control, rear vents, wireless charging, and a 360-degree camera. The centerpiece is an 11.6-inch portrait-style touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, paired with an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Safety tech takes a leap with EyeSight 4.0. It uses three cameras to provide nine driver-assist features, including lane centering, adaptive cruise, and emergency steering. A new Driver Monitoring System adds facial recognition to warn against distraction or drowsiness and can store profiles for five drivers. The system can even stop the vehicle if the driver becomes unresponsive.
Priced at P2,498,000, the Forester 2.5 i-S e-Boxer Hybrid comes with a five-year bumper-to-bumper warranty and eight years of coverage for the hybrid battery. For buyers looking at hybrids, it now stands as one of the few with a standard all-wheel-drive system, keeping Subaru’s identity intact while embracing electrification.
Volkswagen’s sales operations in the Philippines wind down this month as Ayala’s Automobile Central Enterprise Inc. ends its distribution deal with Volkswagen AG after a 12-year run. The last dealership in Bonifacio Global City is set to operate until September 30, 2025.
Vehicle servicing, maintenance, and warranty support will continue to be available through the Alabang Service Center, Pampanga Service Center, and other authorized service touchpoints. Customers may book service appointments via this volkswagen.service@acmobility.ph. For Pampanga customers, please contact 0918 8542379 or email hbsicat@lausgroup.com.ph.
The move follows Ayala’s exit from Maxus distribution in August, signaling a portfolio shift while customer care stays in place for Volkswagen users.
Volkswagen under Ayala began in 2013, bringing in nameplates from the Jetta and Tiguan to the Golf GTI, then pivoting in 2018 to China-built models like the Santana and Lamando, and later the T-Cross, Multivan Kombi, and Tharu.
Public posts from Volkswagen Philippines and multiple outlets confirm the closure timeline and aftersales arrangements.
BYD has officially brought the Tang DM-i to the Philippines, marking another step in its electrified lineup. The grand launch took place today, September 17, 2025, at the SPACE in Ayala One.
The Tang DM-i enters the local market at ₱2,098,000, offering Filipino buyers a premium plug-in hybrid SUV that blends luxury, versatility, and sustainable technology.
BYD first introduced the all-electric Tang in 2024, showcasing a global-standard SUV that combined comfort, technology, and performance. The DM-i version builds on that success by answering customer requests for flexibility. “Our mission is not just to introduce vehicles, but to listen, respond, and deliver solutions that fit Filipino needs,” said Bob Palanca, Managing Director of BYD Philippines.
Palanca explained that while many drivers are eager to shift fully to EVs, others want the reassurance of hybrid capability during the country’s transition to clean mobility. The Tang DM-i is designed precisely for that balance, powered by BYD’s advanced Super DM-i technology, which allows drivers to enjoy electric driving while still being equipped for longer-distance travel.
The SUV carries over the luxury, comfort, and advanced features of the original Tang, but now with an added layer of adaptability. From everyday city commutes to long family drives, the Tang DM-i positions itself as a versatile choice for Filipinos seeking both sustainability and practicality.
BYD emphasized that this launch is part of its larger mission to make advanced mobility accessible in the Philippines. “The Tang DM-i is not simply another SUV in our lineup. It is a smarter and more adaptable choice, reflecting our belief that sustainable mobility must also be practical and flexible,” Palanca added.
With the new model, BYD hopes to further strengthen its foothold in the country and bring more Filipinos closer to the future of mobility.
