Zigwheels PH wrap: vehicles we’re excited to see this 2026

MANILA: The local automotive industry was blessed with tons of vehicle launches in 2025. These — as reported by Zigwheels Philippines — helped define the year with the majority of the releases leaning towards multi-purpose vehicles (MPV), crossovers, as well as sport utility vehicle (SUV) and pickup truck models, with a bunch of sedans and compact hatchbacks here and there. 

On that note, the publication’s editorial team is excited to see more nameplates make their way into the Philippine market.

So, here are the vehicles that we believe have a high probability of being launched in the country. 

Honda Prelude 

Honda Cars Philippines Incorporated (HCPI) is slated to release the all-new Prelude sometime next year. After being previewed at the Japan Mobility Show (JMS) 2025, HCPI President Rie Miyake shared the Japanese carmaker’s Philippine subsidiary’s plan to bring the two-door coupe to the country. 

In addition, HCPI already previewed the latest iteration of the nameplate at the recently held Honda Fest 2025, where it showcased past and future models that have made an impact in the Philippine automobile scene. 

HCPI is a bit hush-hush when it comes to the specifications of the all-new Honda Prelude, but elsewhere, it is offered with a hybrid powertrain coupled with the Honda S+ Shift, alongside four other (unique) drive modes. 

Per global specifications, the all-new Honda Prelude can generate up to 200 horsepower (hp), making it a performance-oriented model that allows would-be owners access to the benefits of the government’s Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA). 

Toyota Hilux

Likewise confirmed for local launch is the new Toyota Hilux. 

The ninth-generation model of the popular pickup truck is expected to hit Philippine shores this year, according to Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP). 

Now being sold in Thailand — where it is also called the Toyota Hilux Travo — the nameplate packs a more angular fascia with modern design elements. Still, it retains its rough and rugged appeal with some appointments like a skid plate, claddings on the wheel arches, large wheels, and wide running boards. 

Potentially helping Toyota Motor Corporation usher in its multi-pathway approach to sustainability (alongside the Ativ and bZ4x), we are also expecting to get the new Hilux’s electrified version. Having what it takes to complement TMP’s growing electrified models, the Thai-market Hilux Travo-e Double Cab 4TREX (arguably a good moniker if you ask us) uses a dual electric motor setup (permanent magnet synchronous motor [PMSM>) that makes a total of 193 horses as well as 205 Newton-meters (Nm) at the front wheels and 269 Nm at the rear. 

GWM Haval H9

Another model whose arrival has been set is the GWM Haval H9. 

Great Wall Motor (GWM) Philippines noted its coming in the media preview of the latest iteration of the Cannon pickp truck, and later at this year’s Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) where the company publicly displayed the Haval H9. 

The local wing of the Japanese carmaker appears to be building hype around its local launch, which will happen soon, as it is now posting a handful on its official social media pages about the GWM Haval H9 launch. 

Per our previous report, the GWM Haval H9 packs a 2.4-liter diesel engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission that puts out 178 hp and 480 Nm. Top speed is at 170 kilometers per hour (kph). 

Of note, the publication also reported that the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has released homologation papers for the SUV. 

Toyota Land Cruiser FJ 

Another hard-hitting nameplate that could make its way into the Philippine market is the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ. 

To be built at the Japanese carmaker’s Thailand factory, there is a strong possibility that it could be sold locally, although its arrival is yet to be confirmed by TMP. 

Announced sometime in October, it was soon highlighted at JMS 2025. 

Power comes from a 2.7-liter 2TR-FE engine paired with a part-time four-wheel-drive system, and the venerable six-speed Super Electronic Controlled transmission. The said setup makes up to 160 hp and 246 Nm of torque. 

Its arrival could fill in the gap left by the discontinued Toyota FJ Cruiser and complement the Land Cruiser Prado, which seems to have “temporarily” taken its stead. 

Mitsubishi Montero Sport

An updated version of the Mitsubishi Montero Sport appears to be on the horizon for Filipino fans of the nameplate, as the LTO released homologation papers for the nameplate. 

On that note, we expect it to arrive in 2026, after Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) just finished its salvo of major releases this year. It’s quite understandable as the new Montero Sport might overshadow the Destinator and XForce, granted that it already has a strong following in the country. 

Per the papers issued by the Philippine land transport bureau, it will be powered by a 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Maximum power output was not disclosed, but the SUV will have a top speed of 180 kph. 

Nissan Magnite

Not to be forgotten, Nissan Philippines could be launching the Magnite in 2026. 

To recall, the struggling Japanese car manufacturer’s local wing previewed the crossover at MIAS 2025. Similarly, the LTO released paperwork, greenlighting the nameplate locally. 

Powered by a 1.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine (based on LTO documents), it will arrive as a fitting challenger against category mainstays, Toyota Raize and Kia Sonet. 

Hyundai Accent 

Jumping to the South Korean fence, it is likely that Hyundai Motor Philippines will revive the Accent nameplate. 

The team’s hunch is piqued by the homologation documents released by LTO that might signal the return of the subcompact sedan to the once competitive category. With the constant releases undertaken by the company’s Philippine subsidiary, it is probable that the Hyundai Accent’s rollout has been pushed to 2026 since some important models like the Palisade, updated Stargazer, Ioniq 9 and 5, as well as the Venue, have taken its place. 

Powering the yet-to-be-unveiled Philippine-spec Hyundai Accent is a 1.5-liter gasoline-powered mill that helps the car reach a peak speed of 190 kph. 

Mitsubishi Triton 

The Mitsubishi Triton — which some may still call the L200 — might soon be updated in the Philippines as its counterpart in Thailand has already seen an upgrade sometime in June of 2025. The said updates come in the form of cosmetic changes and some convenience appointments, but mechanically, the pickup truck remains unchanged. 

With that being said, the locally offered Mitsubishi Triton is known for its performance, thanks to a 2.-liter bi-turbo diesel engine that puts out some 202 horses and 70 Nm of pulling power. The said figures make it one of the top choices for people wanting to own a handsome lifestyle truck. 

And while we’re on the topic of updated models… 

Toyota RAV4

With Toyota Motor Corporation releasing the updated version of the RAV4 in Japan (by end of the 2025 fiscal year), fans of the model are hopeful it could make its way to the Philippines. And if it does, our guess is that it would happen in 2026. 

The new Toyota RAV4 will complement the aforementioned Land Cruiser FJ, bolstering TMP’s offerings of updated models that will likely attract new customers. 

What’s more is that it is equipped with an updated hybrid engine, further pushing the brand’s multi-pathway approach to sustainability. A GR Sport (Gazoo Racing) variant is available too, so that would tickle the interest of enthusiasts who want more performance (or pogi points) over what the basic trims can offer. 

Kia EV5 

Kia Philippines, too, will likely bring over the EV5 in 2026. 

The model has been showcased at the 13th edition of the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) and was confirmed for arrival in the first quarter of 2026 — per company executives. 

Some information is still to be disclosed, but so far, we know that it will pack a single-motor setup equipped with an 88.1-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery. Its electric powertrain will also produce up to 214 hp and 310 Nm — pretty decent for its build. 

Range-wise, it can achieve a maximum of 500 kilometers (km) in a single charge. 

GAC Aion UT 

Likewise presented at the 13th PEVS was the GAC Aion UT. 

Per the Chinese manufacturer, the GAC Aion UT has become one of its fastest-selling cars with 1,000 deliveries in just 39 days. Looking to replicate the same numbers in the Philippine market, we believe that it could be released locally this year. 

While specifications for the Philippine market model are still to be disclosed, the global model of the crossover can do up to 500 km in a single charge, according to New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) standards. 

It is powered by an electric motor that can dish out up to 201 hp, juiced by a 60 kWh battery. 

GAC has made a name for itself in the Philippines, but after distributor Astara Philippines left the country and dropped the brand (likely to be taken over by parent company GAC International), the brand has been quiet, and the arrival of the Aion UT could just be the jolt of life it needs. 

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Mitsubishi Xpander Hybrid 

One brand that has held back in introducing electrified models is Mitsubishi. MMPC’s latest offering that had an electrified powertrain was the short-lived Outlander plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV). 

It would make sense — if MMPC would like to compete against other companies that have electrified models — to bring in the Xpander Hybrid. Not only is the nameplate a leader in its segment, but it is also one of the most-loved models by many Filipino families, due to it having seven seats, good ground clearance, and a capable powertrain. 

Currently available in neighboring markets like Thailand, the Mitsubishi Xpander HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) is powered by a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with hybrid technology. It is mated to a hybrid transmission and is capable of making up to 93 hp and 134 Nm. 

Not only will it provide would-be owners with a modern take on the Mitsubishi Xpander, but it will also allow them to access the benefits and perks of the EVIDA law. 

Of note, the Mitsubishi Xpander and Xpander Cross have been updated for 2025 here in the Philippines. You may check out Zigwheels Philippines’ sister platform, Carmudi Philippines’ first look on the MPVs. 

Geely Farizon 

Geely is also another car brand that aims to regain a foothold in the Philippine automotive industry. And while it may not easily change the minds of passenger car buyers, it could well penetrate the country’s commercial vehicle segment. 

Enter the Farizon V6E, a fully-electric vehicle that has the potential to move businesses all over the archipelago. 

Sometime in July 2025, the LTO released homologation papers for the said model, which gave Zigwheels Philippines’ editorial team to suspect that it might get released in 2026. 

Power comes from an electric motor capable of putting out a little over 80 hp. With a lithium-ion phosphate battery, it offers an estimated driving range of 265 km. 

JAC JS6 PHEV 

JAC is one of the brands that has suffered from the Astara exit. On that note, documentation from LTO suggested that the JS6 PHEV is to make its way into the country. 

The JAC JS6’s electrified version is to pack a four-pot, 1.5-liter gasoline engine with hybrid technology that uses a lithium-ion battery. It produces some 201 electrified horses and has a maximum speed of 178 kph. 

Range-wise, it does about 120 km. 

Not much is to be said about its arrival since JAC Motor Philippines also went quiet since its distributor stepped out of frame. 

Toyota Veloz HEV 

Toyota presented the Veloz with a hybrid powertrain in November. The MPV premiered in Indonesia, which is why the editorial team is hopeful that it will be brought here by TMP. 

Should Toyota’s Philippine arm push its electrification goals, the Veloz HEV could make for a good entry point for many families as the nameplate has earned a reputation in the country as a stylish seven-seater that can move families both as a daily commuter as well as a weekender for those spontaneous weekend adventures. 

A quick look at Toyota Indonesia’s website shows that it is still in pre-order status, so we await full specifications once officially rolled out. 

Kia Seltos 

The second-generation of the Kia Seltos has made its debut in December 2025. 

Looking more modern that the model currently offered in the country, it might appeal to today’s generation of car buyers who want futuristic-looking cars peppered with plenty of technological features. 

Speaking of which, it has been noted that Kia will add a hybrid variant of the second-gen Seltos in 2026, so it appears that the company already has solid plans for the model. With Kia as one of the brands the Ayala-owned ACMobility decided worth keeping (after it dropped the Volkswagen and Honda brands), it is highly possible that the newest iteration of the crossover would make its way in the Philippine market. 

Powering the new Kia Selto is a 1.6-liter T-GDI turbocharged mill or a high-output 2.0-liter engine. Power figures range from 147 hp to 190 hp while torque goes from 179 Nm to 265 Nm. Transmission options include a seven-speed and eight-speed automatic transmission, as well as a six-speed manual gearbox. 

Of note, the currently-offered Kia Seltos in the Philippines made its debut in November 2023.

Nissan Navara 

Though considered a long shot, Nissan’s updated Navara — released in Australia — might be brought to the Philippines as the brand has a strong connection with pickup truck buyers locally. 

Aito M8 

Aito is yet another brand that will likely introduce a new model in 2026 — specifically, the M8. 

Company Project Manager for Asia Pacific Markets Benjamin Fan shared with the publication the possibility of bringing the people hauler to the local market and even noted that “discussion for its eyed launch for the Philippines market has already started.” 

Globally, the Aito M8 is powered by a dual electric motor setup, which is complemented by a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. Power generated is rated at 165 hp at the front wheel axle and 227 hp at the rear wheels. Torque is 278 at the fore and 320 at the back. 

Range-wise, it does about 310 km running on electric power alone and approximately 1,526 km with the internal combustion engine in play. 

Avatr, Deepal brands 

Lastly, Changan Philippines is likely to add new brands to its roster as the local wing of the Chinese car brand teased the arrival of new models — possibly from the Avatr and Deepal marques. 

The announcement was made during an intimate gathering, Inchacpe Philippines (distributor of Changan cars in the country) arranged with members of the motoring media. It presented silhouettes of three vehicles, possibly to bear the badges of the aforementioned makers. 

Possible launches 

While we cannot predict exact launch dates for the abovementioned models in the list. Our hunch tells us that majority of these rollouts could take place at major expos like MIAS, Philippine International Motor Show, and PEVS. 

Also read: 

Zigwheels PH wrap: Local vehicle launches in H2 2025

Zigwheels PH wrap: Local vehicle launches in H2 2025

ELECTRIA: Zigwheels PH top 10 EVs for 2025

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