EV
Hongqi Powers Up Luxury EVs with Plus Upgrades and a PHEV Tease
Hongqi is stepping up its presence in the Philippine luxury EV market with the launch of updated versions of two flagship models—the E-HS9 Plus and the E-QM5 Plus. The event, held at the TDG In.Hub Atrium in Taguig, also teased the brand’s upcoming plug-in hybrid SUV, the HS3 PHEV.
The most significant upgrades are found under the hood—or rather, in the batteries. The full-sized E-HS9 SUV now stretches its driving range to 515 kilometers on a single charge, an increase from the previous 440 km. The mid-sized executive sedan E-QM5 Plus goes even further, boosting its range to 560 km from 430 km.
Beyond range, both models now bring added comfort and features. The E-HS9 rolls on larger 22-inch rims, while music lovers will enjoy the BOSE premium system with 16 speakers. The E-QM5 Plus, meanwhile, comes with ventilated seats and cruise control for a more relaxed ride.
Hongqi Philippines co-CEO and EvoXTerra president Rashid Delgado said the upgrades reflect the brand’s focus on innovation and luxury: “We are dedicated to ensuring that every model Hongqi releases delivers the most advanced EV technology to date, wrapped inside pure decadence.”
The E-HS9 Plus is priced at PHP6,480,000, while the E-QM5 Plus retails at PHP1,880,000.
But the spotlight wasn’t only on the new EVs. The brand also previewed the Hongqi HS3 PHEV, a five-seat compact SUV that blends a 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine with a 225 hp electric motor. Together, they deliver over 1,400 kilometers of hybrid range or 115 kilometers of full-electric range. With a 0–100 km/h sprint time of 7.6 seconds and the ability to fast-charge in 19 minutes, the HS3 PHEV promises both performance and practicality.
The model also offers a 3.3 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, advanced driver assistance systems, and a spacious, tech-laden cabin. Hongqi says it was designed to feel like a pure EV, with instant power delivery, quiet operation, and refined ride quality.
Hongqi’s lineup, now available in showrooms in BGC, Alabang, Manila Bay, and Quezon City, positions the brand as one of the strongest challengers in the country’s growing premium EV segment.
DENZA brings hybrid off-road SUVs into PH market with B5 and B8 launch
DENZA Philippines has expanded its local lineup with the launch of the B5 and B8 electrified SUVs, following the brand’s appearance at the 2026 Manila International Auto Show.
Introduced under the “Adventure Electrified” campaign, the two sport utility vehicles target buyers looking for electrified powertrains combined with off-road capability and premium cabin features.
According to Adam Hu, the launch allows the brand to reach more SUV buyers in the Philippines, particularly those looking for new energy vehicles with both utility and lifestyle appeal.
The DENZA B5 enters the market as a midsize plug-in hybrid SUV that uses the brand’s DMO Super Hybrid system. It combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with a dual-motor setup that produces 425 kW and 760 Nm of torque.
The vehicle carries a 31.8-kWh BYD Blade battery and an 83-liter fuel tank, allowing a claimed combined NEDC driving range of up to 975 kilometers. DENZA said the B5 also comes with four-wheel drive and electronically controlled front and rear locking differentials for changing road and terrain conditions.
The B5 includes a large infotainment display, digital instrument cluster, head-up display, panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and a 360-degree camera system. The SUV also gets massage and ventilated seats along with driver assistance systems.
The larger B8 arrives as a full-size SUV offered in Dynamic and Premium variants. It combines a 2.0-liter engine with a dual-motor setup that delivers 450 kW and 760 Nm of torque. DENZA said the SUV can accelerate from zero to 100 kph in 4.8 seconds.
The B8 uses a 36.9-kWh battery and a 91.5-liter fuel tank, giving it a claimed combined range of up to 1,040 kilometers under NEDC standards.
DENZA equipped the B8 with its DiSus-P Intelligent Damping Suspension system and electronically controlled locking differentials. The setup adjusts suspension damping based on road conditions and wheel movement to improve ride stability and traction on uneven surfaces.
Both SUVs include terrain response modes for mud, sand, rock, and water wading conditions. They also feature Leopard Turn technology designed to improve maneuverability in tight spaces and off-road trails.
The vehicles connect to the DENZA mobile app, which allows owners to monitor vehicle status, charging levels, fuel levels, and location remotely.
DENZA Philippines will hold the DENZA Arena customer test drive event from April 24 to 26, where potential buyers can test the vehicles on steep inclines, water wading sections, side slopes, and uneven terrain.
The B5 carries a launch price of P3.498 million, while the B8 is priced at P4.698 million for the Dynamic variant and P5.098 million for the Premium variant.
Toyota rolls out P179,700 entry deals and up to P100,000 savings this April
Toyota Motor Philippines has launched a month-long promo that highlights low entry costs, flexible financing, and cash discounts across select models. The campaign runs from April 15 to 30, 2026.
The offer centers on three payment options designed to fit different budgets. The Pay Low plan starts with a 15 percent down payment and a 60-month term. It includes one year of comprehensive insurance and three years of LTO registration. Some finance lease deals also waive chattel mortgage fees.
Under this plan, the Toyota ATIV 1.5 HEV CVT in two-tone is available from P179,700. The hybrid sedan posts fuel economy figures of up to 43.7 km/L in city driving and 26.3 km/L combined.
Buyers who prefer lower monthly payments can choose the Pay Light option. The plan spreads amortization over 60 months. The Corolla Cross 1.8 V HEV CVT is offered from P17,403 per month. It delivers 48.5 km/L in urban conditions and 23.6 km/L combined.
Customers ready to pay in full can take the Straight Cash option. Discounts vary by model. The Yaris Cross 1.5 S HEV CVT carries savings of up to P100,000. It returns up to 34.5 km/L in city driving and 27.8 km/L combined.
Toyota also bundles added ownership perks. Select models get free periodic maintenance service and service discount vouchers. Trade-in rebates reach up to P30,000. Some variants include one year of insurance. All new vehicles carry a five-year warranty.
The promo covers selected models and remains subject to approval and availability. Full mechanics and participating units are listed on Toyota’s official promo page.
The Manila auto scene steps into a new phase as Manila International Auto Show 2026 opened today at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center, drawing industry leaders, officials, and car brands under one roof.
Organized by Worldbex Services International, the show carries the theme “Powering Mobility.” It highlights new energy vehicles, EV infrastructure, and transport solutions as the industry shifts toward electrification and smarter mobility systems.
The opening ceremony gathered key figures from government and business. Among those present were Joseph L. Ang, Dexter Lloyd Cuajotor, Augustus “Joe” D. Ferreria, Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano, Markus V. Lacanilao, and Ceferino “Perry” S. Rodolfo representing Department of Trade and Industry.
Ang said the event continues to support the industry’s growth despite ongoing challenges, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration. The program also highlights commercial mobility and sustainable transport solutions as demand shifts.
More than 500 vehicles are on display across 25 car brands, covering a wide range from internal combustion models to hybrids and full electric vehicles. Visitors can expect product launches, test drives, and interactive exhibits throughout the venue.
Now on its 21st year, MIAS remains one of the country’s largest automotive gatherings. The show runs until April 12, with tickets available online and on-site.
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