GAC GS8 HEV vs. other hybrid mid-size SUVs

GAC Motor Philippines unleashed the GS8 HEV at the 2026 Manila International Auto Show just last week. That said, the beefy seven-seater now competes with fellow vehicles in the budding new-energy category. 

On that note, we take a quick look at some of the hybrid models in the segment, specifically their powertrains, to see how well the newly-launched model fares with the competition. 

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But before we begin, here is a quick look at what the GAC GS8 HEV has to offer: 

GAC GS8 HEV 

Under the hood of the GAC GS8 HEV is a fourth-generation Toyota Hybrid System that can put out as much as 188 horsepower (hp) and 320 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. 

Driving power to the wheels is an electronic continuously variable transmission. 

The GAC GS8 HEV uses an all-wheel drive drivetrain and can tailor one’s driving experience via its four selectable drive modes, namely Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Off-road. 

Its notable features are listed below: 

• 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• 10-speaker Alpine sound system
• 12.3-inch full-LCD instrument cluster 
• Tri-zone climate control 
• Panoramic sunroof 

The GAC GS8 HEV has an introductory price of P2.338 million. 

Hyundai Tucson Hybrid 

Providing the GAC GS8 HEV with a warm welcome is the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. 

While the Chinese model uses a 2.0-liter powerplant, the South Korean packs a smaller 1.6-liter mill with a six-speed automatic transmission. 

The setup makes 231 horses and 367 Nm, a bit more powerful than the aforementioned. 

Its noteworthy features include: 

• 12.3-inch instrument panel 
• 12.3-inch infotainment system 
• Column-mounted shifter 
• Floating center console 
• Panoramic sunroof 
• Wireless smartphone charger 

The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid sells for P2.290 million. 

Ford Territory Hybrid 

Representing the Blue Oval brand is the Ford Territory Hybrid, a fan favorite among electrified mobility adopters. 

Under the bonnet is a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with hybrid technology, mated to a two-speed dedicated hybrid transmission. 

The result is 215 hp and 315 Nm of pulling power, decent enough to get owners from point A to point B without as much emission as an SUV powered by a fully internal combustion engine. 

Features worth noting are: 

• 12-inch digital instrument cluster 
• 12-inch infotainment system 
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto 
• Arkamys SoundStage 
• Dual-zone air conditioning 
• Wireless phone charger 

The Ford Territory Hybrid retails for P1.599 million. 

Also read:

GAC to introduce Trumpchi E9?

GAC's new local arm eyes to join CAMPI

PH-available GAC sub-brands now under one roof

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