GAC E8 stretches the family drive

GAC Philippines is positioning the E8 HEV as a practical entry into electrified family motoring, combining seven-seat flexibility with a self-charging hybrid system capable of more than 1,000 kilometers on a full tank.

The E8 HEV sits between the all-new GN6 with an internal-combustion engine and the GN8 PHEV Executive in GAC’s expanded MPV lineup. It is available in GL and GX variants, with suggested retail prices of P1.858 million and P1.998 million, respectively.

An introductory offer brings those prices down to P1.778 million for the GL and P1.918 million for the GX for reservations made until Sept. 30, 2026.

The E8 uses a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle hybrid engine paired with an electric motor. The system produces 182 PS, while the electric drive motor delivers up to 300 Nm of torque.

Power is sent through a two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission. GAC says the setup is tuned to provide smooth acceleration while reducing abrupt gear changes and engine noise.

Fuel economy is rated at 5.58 liters per 100 kilometers. With its 60-liter fuel tank, the company says the E8 can travel more than 1,000 kilometers before refueling.

The self-charging system also removes the need for external charging, giving buyers an electrified option without requiring a home charger or regular stops at public charging stations.

Inside, the seven-seat cabin uses what GAC calls its Magic Storage system, which allows 18 seating configurations.

The third row can be folded flat into the floor, increasing luggage capacity from 345 liters to as much as 1,917 liters. The arrangement allows owners to switch between passenger and cargo duties without removing seats.

A Tea Break Mode also allows the third row to be configured as an outward-facing lounge, designed for stops during road trips and other outdoor activities.

Second-row passengers get individual captain’s chairs mounted on extended rails. The GX adds One-Touch Zero Gravity Captain’s Seats with ventilation, massage functions and powered leg rests.

The dashboard combines an 8.8-inch digital instrument display with a 14.6-inch central touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, while wireless charging and seven USB ports provide additional charging options around the cabin.

GAC is also banking on the E8’s hybrid powertrain to make the large MPV easier to drive in urban conditions. The electric motor’s immediate torque is intended to provide quick response during overtaking and highway merging despite the vehicle’s seven-passenger capacity.

The E8 is offered in Crystal White and Elegant Black, both paired with a black interior and black headliner.

GAC Philippines backs the E8 with a five-year or 150,000-kilometer basic vehicle warranty. Its power battery, driving motor and motor control unit are covered for eight years or 150,000 kilometers.

Owners also receive two years of roadside assistance. The company currently operates 30 dealerships nationwide and maintains a local parts warehouse.

GAC said its MPV experience spans more than a decade, with more than 880,000 MPVs delivered globally.

For families considering a first step into electrified driving, the E8 HEV offers one of the more straightforward routes. It keeps conventional refueling, adds hybrid efficiency and retains the space expected from a full-size family MPV.