Cars
Vios Ativ HEV Signals Toyota’s Boldest Launch of 2025
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has opened early reservations for the all-new Vios Ativ HEV, its most anticipated model rollout this year. The official launch is set for October 2025, marking a major step in Toyota’s hybrid expansion in the country.
While pricing has yet to be revealed, TMP confirmed that the Ativ HEV will be the brand’s most affordable hybrid. Currently, the entry-level hybrid in Toyota’s local lineup is the Corolla Cross 1.8 G at ₱1,514,000. Analysts expect the Ativ HEV to land around the ₱1.2 to ₱1.3 million range, possibly dipping lower to compete directly with rivals like the BYD Seal 5 Premium (₱1,198,000), Honda City (₱973,000–₱1,138,000), and Nissan Almera (₱845,000–₱1,195,000).
Official documents from the Department of Energy confirm that the vehicle will carry the “Vios Ativ HEV” nameplate. Its hybrid status qualifies it for perks such as number coding exemption and lower registration fees under the EVIDA law. Power comes from a 1.5-liter 2NR-VEX four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 111 horsepower. The setup is mated to an e-CVT and powered by a lithium-ion battery pack, the same system found in the Yaris Cross HEV.
In Thailand, where the Ativ HEV has already been launched, the model features 16-inch alloy wheels, a 10.1-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control with rear vents, and Toyota Safety Sense driver-assist technologies.
Interestingly, TMP’s marketing approach raises questions about its positioning. While the DOE lists it as the “Vios Ativ HEV,” TMP has been spotlighting the “Ativ” branding in teasers. This echoes strategies used with the Innova Zenix and Avanza Veloz, suggesting that the Ativ may eventually stand as its own model line. Another possibility is that the Ativ HEV becomes the top-tier Vios variant, potentially opening the door for a hybrid GR Sport comeback.
Whichever direction Toyota takes, one thing is clear: the arrival of the Vios Ativ HEV will shake up the subcompact sedan segment. With electrified mobility now more accessible, Filipino buyers can expect a greener option in time for the holiday season.
CLARK, Philippines. Nissan Philippines will open Clark International Speedway to the public on February 1, 2026 for its first Nissan Festival, a full-day track event built around driving activities, fan access, and brand interaction.
Unlike traditional showroom-based launches, the Nissan Festival is structured as a live track program, with multiple activities running throughout the circuit. Organizers said the goal is to give visitors direct access to Nissan vehicles and people behind the brand in a motorsport setting.
The schedule includes test drives, interactive displays, and parade laps involving Nissan car clubs and selected heritage vehicles. Nissan said these activities are intended to run alongside on-track sessions, allowing guests to move freely between displays, driving areas, and viewing zones.
A key draw of the event is the appearance of Hiroshi Tamura, best known among enthusiasts for his long involvement in the development of the GT-R. Tamura worked on the R35 GT-R from its concept stage and will take part in a live question-and-answer session during the festival. Nissan confirmed that selected guests will also have the chance to ride with him for a hot lap around the circuit.
Nissan Philippines brand ambassador Matteo Guidicelli will also be present during the event, with the company teasing additional on-site activities to be announced closer to the date.
The Nissan Festival will officially begin at 10:00 a.m. and run for the entire day at Clark International Speedway. Nissan Philippines said the event is open to fans, owners, and first-time visitors, positioning it as a large-scale public track gathering rather than a closed media or owner-only program.
BMW is preparing to take its performance division into a fully electric future, with the first all-electric BMW M models set to arrive from 2027. The brand says these vehicles will carry the same high-performance character that defined BMW M on racetracks and public roads for decades, now powered entirely by electricity.
The upcoming models are built on BMW’s Neue Klasse platform and use a newly developed electric system called BMW M eDrive. Unlike current setups, each wheel is powered by its own electric motor. This four-motor layout allows precise control of power delivery at every corner, improving traction, stability, and response during both daily driving and track use.
At the center of this system is BMW M Dynamic Performance Control, managed by a high-speed computing unit known internally as the “Heart of Joy.” The system processes driving data in real time and adjusts torque distribution instantly. BMW says this allows the electric M cars to behave like rear-wheel-drive models when needed, while still benefiting from all-wheel-drive capability for grip and efficiency. The front axle can even be fully decoupled during steady highway driving to improve range.
Power comes from a newly developed high-voltage battery with more than 100 kWh of usable energy. The battery is designed specifically for high-performance use and supports 800-volt charging technology for faster charging times. BMW also highlights improved energy recuperation, which allows the system to recover more power during braking without compromising performance.
The battery housing plays a structural role in the vehicle, connecting the front and rear axles. This design increases overall stiffness and contributes to sharper handling. Cooling systems and electronic controls have also been upgraded to handle sustained high loads during aggressive driving.
BMW M is also introducing new lightweight materials in these electric models. For the first time, natural fiber components will be used in place of some carbon fiber parts. The company says these materials offer similar strength while reducing carbon emissions during production.
BMW M managing director Franciscus van Meel said the shift to electric power allows the brand to push performance further while staying true to its racing roots. The company positions these upcoming models as everyday cars that can still deliver serious track capability.
Chinese automaker Deepal is set to enter the Philippine market after naming Autohub Group as its official local distributor.
The partnership was sealed through a formal signing with Changan Automobile Southeast Asia, giving Deepal a clear path into the country’s growing electrified vehicle space. Autohub said the brand will roll out a lineup focused on battery electric and range-extended electric vehicles aimed at daily urban use and light adventure driving.
Leading the initial launch is the Deepal S05 compact SUV. It will be offered in two versions. One is a range-extended electric vehicle designed for longer driving range and flexibility. The other is a full battery electric model aimed at city use. Both are positioned as accessible entry points into electrified mobility.
Joining the S05 is the Deepal G318, a range-extended electric SUV built with off-road capability in mind. The model targets buyers who want electric driving for daily use but need extra capability for rougher terrain. Autohub also confirmed that the larger Deepal S07 midsize SUV is lined up for release in the following quarters.
Deepal’s first major public appearance in the Philippines is scheduled for April 2026 at the Manila International Auto Show. The brand is expected to reveal more details about pricing, specifications, and its local market strategy during the event.
Autohub President Willy Tee Ten said bringing Deepal to the country supports the group’s plan to introduce forward-looking mobility brands that match rising interest in electrified transport. He added that the brand’s technology focus and product range fit everyday driving needs in the Philippine market.
No official pricing has been announced. Autohub said more information will be shared closer to the brand’s public debut.
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