Zigwheels weekly wrap: Jul. 6-10

MANILA: The biggest stories last week saw a South Korean auto firm give its luxury people mover an electrifying update, while brands that have launched new models recently give those following the motoring beat an update about how they are performing. 

Further, we visit companies that are striving to expand their reach, as well as other initiatives from local auto players. 

Here is an abridged version of last week’s worthiest buzz. 

Other stories: Toyota Makati offering cash incentive for car owners affected by Takata airbag issue Denza unleashes all-new Z all-electric supercar in UK Ford PH reactivates ‘Freedom Fest’ promo for Jul.

Local launch 

Hyundai Staria 

Hyundai Motor Philippines introduced the Staria Hybrid. 

The carmaker’s popular luxury people hauler now packs a 1.6-liter turbocharged Euro 5-compliant gasoline-fed engine paired with a hybrid system and a six-speed automatic. As such, it generates some 242 horses and 265 Newton-meters of torque. 

It also gets the Hyundai-exclusive smart hybrid functions such as e-Handling and e-Ride. 

Price starts from P1.999 million to P3.199 million. 

Chetak electric motorcycles 

Launching sometime at the end of the month, Chetak electric motorcycles will be under the stewardship of Trimotors Technology Corporation. 

The brand’s debut will take place at Filinvest Corporate Center in Alabang, Muntinlupa. 

Global launch 

VinFast VF 2 

VinFast continues to grow its stable, now with the addition of the VF 2 — a rear-wheel-drive electric vehicle powered by a single motor that delivers a maximum output of 40.23 horsepower and 65 Nm of torque with a range of 210 kilometers (based on the NEDC cycle). 

Of note, it is the brand’s smallest four-wheeled offering to date and is considered the private car version of the Minio Green. 

Palpable performance 

As we enter the second half of the year, many brands are eager to showcase how well they have performed in the first few months of 2026. 

Kicking things off is Great Wall Motors (GWM) Philippines, which reported strong numbers. Per the company, the Haval H9, and recently launched Haval H7, “have enjoyed strong appreciation from the local market,” thus expanding the marque’s presence in one of the country's most competitive automotive segments. 

In June alone, GWM Philippines sold 112 units nationwide. 

Fellow Chinese carmaker Jaecoo Philippines highlighted the “enthusiastic response” received by the J6. The company cited its design and technology as the main drivers of its growth, as well as the increasing demand for electrified models. 

As for Chery Auto Philippines, the United Asia Automotive Group Incorporated-led brand noted that it surpassed the 1,000 mark for the sales of the Tiggo rEV. The company said that it is its top-selling electrified model. 

Heading to the United States, Nissan’s X-Trail for the American market was named the number one compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) for New-Vehicle Quality by JD Power in its 2026 US Initial Quality Study. 

Relatedly, the local wing of the Blue Oval brand shared that the Philippines is among the leading markets for the Ford Ranger Raptor globally. 

Finally, GAC Philippines reported that the Aion UT (which was launched here recently) is now the world’s fastest-growing Chinese EV hatchback. 

Other news 

In other news, Jetour Auto Philippines solidified its presence in the country’s National Capital Region by securing a dealership in Manila Bay under MG Gateway Mantrade Corporation. 

Likewise, Inchcape Philippines will open new facilities in Central Luzon and Mindanao; specifically in Davao, General Santos, Butuan, Surigao, and San Fernando, Pampanga. 

Honda Cars Philippines aided the earthquake-struck people in Mindanao, while Isuzu Philippines Corporation celebrated the 25th batch under its Isuzu Heart and Smile Project. 

Finally, Yamaha Motor Philippines Incorporated rolled out its “We Defy” community campaign. 

Also read:

ZW weekly wrap: May 18-22

Zigwheels PH Monthly Wrap: April 2026

ZW weekly wrap: Apr. 20-24

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