Zigwheels weekly wrap: Aug. 3-7

MANILA: The second week of August proved quite eventful, still with several model launches. Local players also reported their progress for the year, citing how well their bets are selling in their respective segments. 

Further, brands continue expanding their presence all over the country, and we also get a sneak peek at some more models arriving in the coming days.  

So, without further ado, here is the abridged version of the biggest motoring that transpired in the past seven days. 

Other stories: Ford PH expands Territory Hybrid roster with Platinum variant In 7 pictures: Lexus PH unveils all-new ES Jetour F700 to enter PH?

Local launches 

Lexus ES 

First to break out was the all-new Lexus ES. 

The upscale sedan first made its debut at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, later on making its way to the local new-energy vehicle segment — ultimately boosting the Toyota-owned brand’s offerings in the Philippines. 

It comes in two powertrain options: two hybrids and a fully electric one. 

The hybrids use a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder hybrid powertrain, which can dish out 243.6 horsepower (hp). On the other hand, the battery-electric vehicle uses an electric motor that generates around 221 hp. 

Lexus Philippines retails the all-new ES from P4.108 million to P5.688 million. 

Ford Territory Hybrid   

Trailing behind was the newest variant of the Ford Territory Hybrid crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV). 

It still retains the nameplate’s powertrain, which is comprised of a 1.5-liter hybrid system paired with a two-speed dedicated hybrid transmission, making 215 horses and 315 Nm. 

New to the model are the “PLATINUM” lettering on the bonnet and on the power tailgate, with a two-tone fascia, black roof, and a set of new wheels. It also is endowed with “PLATINUM” stitching on the seats and scuff plates, a new sound system, and the “digital scent” feature. 

The Ford Territory Hybrid Platinum sells for P1.655 million. 

Audi RS 5 Avant PHEV 

Not too far behind — schedule-wise — is the  Audi RS 5 Avant PHEV (plug-in hybrid vehicle). 

Launched late in the week, it packs a 2.9-liter TFSI V6 gasoline engine paired with a PHEV system, making 639 hp and 825 Nm of pulling power. 

Those interested in knowing how much the electrified wagon is could place a request with PGA Cars Incorporated — the official distributor of Audi cars in the country. 

Sales report 

Large, legacy brands, as well as newcomers, report how well they are doing in terms of sales. 

To no one’s surprise, Toyota Motor Philippines continues to dominate the market and take the lion’s share overall. According to the local wing of the Japanese carmaker, it aims to surpass its three-million sales target for 2026. 

The firm is now 38 years old. 

Meanwhile, Chinese brand Chery has surpassed its 20-million global sales milestone this week. The said mark was achieved with the delivery of a Fulwin electric vehicle (EV). 

Lastly, Nissan keeps things rolling and has sold some 7,000 cars in the first half of the year. The company cited its Re:Nissan strategy as a key driver of its celebrated success with sales. 

Dealership openings 

Last week, auto companies appear to have been busy expanding their reach and bringing their products closer to their customers. 

For one, Inchcape Philippines has opened four new dealerships, located in Alabang (Muntinlupa), Butuan (Agusan del Norte), Surigao (Surigao del Norte), and Commonwealth (Quezon City). 

According to the distributor, each facility features a five-vehicle display showroom and two service work bays, providing full sales and aftersales support, including preventive maintenance, general repairs, spare parts, accessories, and body and paint work. 

Meanwhile, Great Wall Motor (GWM) Philippines has partnered with EvoXterra for its upcoming showroom in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. 

Set to open in the third quarter of 2026, it is targeted to offer aftersales support, genuine parts availability, and professional service from GWM-trained technicians as part of its pledge to deliver confidence throughout the ownership journey. 

On the other hand, Suzuki Philippines Incorporated continues its momentum as it is set to open a new dealership in Cagayan Valley. As with most dealership locations of the Japanese marque, the upcoming installment will be a 3S (sales, service, spare parts) dealership.

Keeping up with the competition is Chery. The Chinese brand, under the United Asia Automotive Group Incorporated umbrella, boosted its presence in the Visayas region after putting up shop in Cebu.

It is also a 3S shop and is ready to give customers better access to the marque’s local lineup with matching aftersales support—ensuring a holistic customer-focused ownership experience. 

Arguably the brand to open the most number of dealerships simultaneously is VinFast E-Motorcycles. 

During the launch of the brand in the Philippines, the company shared that it has opened 21 shops in the country. 

Targeted to be one-stop shops, these are also 3S stores that will cover the standard needs of many of VinFast Philippines motorcycle arm. 

Upcoming models  

Some upcoming models were also teased by local players. 

For one, GAC Philippines will launch the GS4 Max HEV soon. An invitation sent to Zigwheels Philippines indicated the model’s upcoming arrival in the country, which will likely take place soon. 

Jetour is poised to release the F700, signalling the brand’s intent to compete in the Philippine electrified pickup truck segment. The new model has had its specifications revealed on the Department of Energy’s list of approved EVs. 

Lexus Philippines appears to have more models up its sleeve as it seems to be preparing to release the RZ 600e F-Sport BEV in the country. It will sport electric motors on both axles, so it promises power and performance, with a touch of luxury, of course. 

Finally, the talked-about Mitsubishi Pajero is pegged to stick to the nameplate’s strong heritage and will have features that hark back to the glory days of the three-diamond brand. 

Per Mitsubishi, it will get the Super-All Wheel Control off-road technology and a ladder-frame platform. The vehicle will arrive in the latter part of the year. 

Also read:

ZW weekly wrap: May 18-22

Zigwheels PH Monthly Wrap: April 2026

ZW weekly wrap: Jul. 27-31

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