Better late than never: It looks like the GAC M8/GN8 PHEV is finally coming to PH
Do you remember the GAC M8 PHEV that was previewed at last year’s Manila International Auto Show when the automaker was still under Astara Philippines? After a tumultuous year and a management change to its own subsidiary under its parent brand (GAC International Philippines), it looks like it’s finally coming, and under a potential new-old name as the GN8 PHEV.
READ: MIAS 2025 | GAC M8 gets electrified with new PHEV variant
As mentioned at a recent dealer conference and as seen on the Department of Energy’s list of recognized plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, this basically confirms that GAC’s luxury van offering is nearing its retail debut with just a single GX variant.
For starters, the electrified plug-in hybrid powertrain has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, paired to an electric motor and a 25.57kWh battery. Total combined output sits at 367 horsepower and 630Nm of torque, and it can run on full electric power alone for up to 106km.
The linked specs sheet confirms that it will look very similar to the current M8 Master Edition, down to the body kit and large grille, LED lighting, 18-inch alloy wheels shod in acoustic tires, and will be available in either Crystal White or Elegant Black.
Unlike the very bright beige interior that was on the MIAS 2025 show car, thankfully, you either get a more subdued beige-and-gray color (Jockey Club Manor) or a dark brown and black color scheme (Opera Hall), but this could be subject to change.
Of course, all three rows come upholstered in semi-aniline leather, and the business-class-like second row comes with a Spa mode that’s controlled, so you can expect cooling, heating, a lounge-like recline, and even seat massaging.
Other luxuries can be found inside, like soundproof glass, an eight-speaker sound system paired to a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch infotainment with smartphone integration, a full suite of ADAS systems, three-zone automatic climate control with a plasma purifier, a panoramic sunroof with illumination to complement the ambient lighting, and a fragrance system.
The only questions that remain are how much and when it will launch. Of course, even with a supposed official brochure, everything is up in the air until it’s officially confirmed. Will you get this over the likes of the BYD eMax 9 DM-i or newly-introduced Denza D9?
Photos by Julian Panlilio and GAC Motor
