Zigwheels PH: Top 7 vehicles to look forward to in 2025

The local automotive industry has seen more than a handful of significant model launches throughout the year. But with 2025 just around the corner, many might be wondering about the car models that are rearing to be unleashed once the new year kicks in. 

So, without further ado, here are the seven highly-anticipated vehicles for the coming year. 

Toyota Tamaraw

First in line is the next-generation Toyota Tamaraw.

Amid being launched in early December, the hype for Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) legendary nameplate’s return is still high.

TMP Vice President Jing Atienza told Zigwheels Philippines during a press conference that the introduction of the short-wheelbase (SWB) gasoline-powered versions will officially be available to the local market by March 2025. 

To note, the SWB gasoline-powered versions of the Tamaraw will become the nameplate’s most affordable version and it will be priced below P800,000. Its low price, of course, is a boon for folks looking to get the Toyota vehicle as a cost-effective logistics solution. 

The addition of the SWB versions likewise adds to the model’s versatility. Sure, its long-wheelbase (LWB) options can already fit a variety of needs, but the addition of a shorter model will open the doors for more varied builds and conversions. It can also address the demands of those who simply prefer gasoline engines over diesel. 

The currently-available LWB trims of the light commercial vehicle model have a price ranging from P937,000 to P1.142 million. It is available in four different body styles: a dropside with a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, an aluminum cargo, and a utility van. 

Propelling the locally available LWB trims of the Tamaraw is the 2.4-liter 2GD-FTV turbo diesel engine. At the most, the said four-banger can produce up to 150 horsepower (ps) and 343 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque.

Other notable features of the Philippine-spec Toyota Tamaraw include a rear air-conditioning system (aluminum cargo and utility van), a 2-DIN audio system, halogen headlamps, and a black-colored radiator grille - among others. 

Ford F-150 Raptor

Ford Motor Philippines hasn’t confirmed it outright just yet, but the F-150 Raptor is likely to see a formal local introduction next year. 

The aforementioned is based on data from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) directing authorized district and extension offices to register the V6-powered F-150 “as a utility vehicle and be assessed with the applicable MVUC (Motor Vehicle User’s Charge) for such vehicle type.”

The file from the LTO clearly states on its subject field the name of the model. Plus, it likewise details its specifications as a 4x4 model with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. 

No exact engine output figures and suspension components were indicated on the file, but in other markets, the Ford F-150 Raptor’s V6 mill can output up to 450 hp and 691 Nm of torque. 

Its overall dimensions measure 5,892 millimeters (mm) long, 2,430 mm wide, and 1,958 mm in height. Overall, it is larger than the locally available Ford Explorer. 

 Land Rover Defender Octa

Another highly anticipated model due for a 2025 launch is the Land Rover Defender Octa. The more capable V8-powered trim’s local introduction was confirmed by Jaguar Land Rover Philippines President Chris Ward through an interview with Zigwheels Philippines.

Specifically, it will be launched locally in the second quarter of 2025, and it further enhances the Defender platform with a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine capable of producing up to 635 hp. It will likewise come with an improved water-wading capacity, the new “Octa drive mode, and a slightly improved exterior design.

Changan Hunter REEV

The country’s pickup truck enthusiasts could also be looking at the arrival of the Changan Hunter range-extended electric vehicle (REEV). 

Previewed at the 2024 Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), the Hunter REEV, according to the Chinese marque’s local arm, will be introduced to the local market in the first quarter of 2025. 

Once the aforementioned Changan model reaches the local market, it will become one of the first range-extended pickup trucks available locally. 

To describe its powertrain in simple terms, its 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline mill works in tandem with two electric motors. The said four-banger will function as a power generator, similar to how the powertrains of the Nissan Kicks e-Power and BYD Sealion 6 DM-i function. 

In total, the Changan-made truck can produce up to 268 hp and 470 Nm of torque. It likewise boasts a driving range of 1,031 kilometers. 

For now, the brand has not released the exact pricing of the upcoming pickup truck, but it was previously disclosed that it is targeting a sub-P2 million price range. 

Mitsubishi DST Concept: Production version

Yet another exciting upcoming launch for the local market is the production version of the Mitsubishi DST Concept. 

After its debut at the 2024 PIMS, the Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) shared that the yet-to-be-named sports utility vehicle (SUV) will be rolled out in Southeast Asian markets between April-March 2025. 

MMPC President and Chief Executive Officer Takao Kato also shared that the production model’s launch will include the Philippine market. 

For now, we have no further details about the DST Concept’s production version, but it will be a three-row SUV model that sports the latest iteration of the Dynamic Shield fascia. It thus continues the good reputation of Mitsubishi when it comes to building three-row models. 

Examples of the brand’s competent seven-seater rides include the Xpander and Xpander Cross MPVs, and the currently available Montero Sport SUV. 

MG HS PHEV

Morris Garages (MG) Philippines has previewed the HS plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) at the 2024 PIMS. At the said event, the brand simply said the model is coming to the Philippine market “soon,” and with 2024 ending, it’ll likely see a local launch in 2025. 

The HS PHEV is expected with bated breath by car buyers since it further expands the already varied lineup of the Chinese marque’s local arm. It is also a continuing demonstration of MG’s hybrid powertrain chops, which was already displayed by the peppy and agile MG 3 hatchback. 

Concerning specs, the HS PHEV’s powertrain can generate up to 321 hp and 570 Nm of torque. It also has a driving range of 1,065 km and an electric-only range of 100 km. 

No further details for the MG HS PHEV were provided, so let’s wait for more details from MG Philippines. 

JAC RF8 PHEV

Filipinos who want to get a cushy but sustainable people carrier are also looking forward to the arrival of the JAC RS8 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). 

Previously previewed at the Auto Guangzhou 2024, it is set to arrive to compete in the local multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment by 2025. Specifically, JAC Philippines Brand Head Tonette Lee shared with Zigwheels Philippines that it will be launched officially after the upcoming 2025 Manila International Auto Show. 

Under the hood of the range-topping RS8 PHEV is a 1.5-liter hybrid engine with an overall range of 1,250 km and an electric-only range of 250 km. 

Final thoughts

So, there you have it, folks, the seven most highly anticipated car launches in 2025. Sure, our list is not exhaustive by any means, but we think that the aforementioned are sure to catch the attention of the car-loving public. 

Also read: 

Zigwheels Philippines 10 most-read launch stories for 2024

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