GAC International PH to bring in GS8 HEV

MANILA: GAC International Philippines has confirmed it will bring in the hybrid version of the GS8 sport utility vehicle (SUV).

The aforementioned update from the Chinese brand’s local arm was made during its recently concluded 2026 GAC Philippines Dealer Conference. 

For now, the model’s specifications and features are yet to be published by GAC International Philippines, but the GS8 HEV is said to use the brand’s “Mega Wave THS” hybrid system. This is comprised of a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and two electric motors, which are touted to provide a good balance of performance and efficiency. 

Additionally, the upcoming GAC GS8 HEV will retain its boxy design and seven-seater interior layout. 

Furthermore, GAC International Philippines shared that it will begin accepting orders for the electrified SUV in March 2026. On that note, more details, specifically the model’s pricing and full specifications, will be shared before its official local introduction. 

So, for now, let’s check out the specifications of features from the global version of the GAC GS8 HEV.

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GAC GS8 HEV: global specs, features

In other markets around the world, the GAC GS8 HEV’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine can produce up to 188 horsepower (hp) and 320 Newton-meters of torque. Its front motor adds a further 180 hp and 270 Nm, while its rear motor provides 53 hp and 121 Nm. 

Contrary to the gasoline-only GAC GS8, which uses an eight-speed automatic gearbox, the GS8 HEV uses an electronic continuously variable transmission (E-CVT). Otherwise, the hybrid model still rides on a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension. 

With electric motors in the front and rear, the GAC GS8 HEV’s global versions come with an all-wheel-drive system, as well as several terrain/drive modes. 

Notable features of the global-spec GAC GS8 HEV also include automatic LED lighting, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate controls, intelligent ambient lighting, remote start, a head-up display, electronically folding second- and third-row seats, and a 14.6-inch central infotainment touchscreen. 

2026 GAC Philippines Dealer Conference

The 2026 GAC Philippines Dealer Conference marks the first time that GAC International Philippines has brought its entire dealer network under one roof. 

With the theme of “Building Success Together as One GAC,” members of its dealer network took the opportunity to align with the “One GAC” philosophy, One Channel, and One Service programs, which aim to provide consistency in service, sales, and customer experience. 

GAC Philippines International, after all, was born out of the exit of Astara Philippines - the brand’s previous local distributor. It is now managed directly by GAC International. 

“The change to self-operation shows strong confidence in the local market. It also means we will invest more resources, strengthen the local team, and fully support all partners for win-win growth,” Senior Vice President of GAC International Steven Wang said. 

Also read:

PH-available GAC sub-brands now under one roof

Check out GAC International PH’s current lineup of NEV models

13th PEVS: GAC Motor PH rolls out all-new Aion V, Hyptec HT

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