GAC M8 set to be launched in PH early next year

The Philippines is one of the largest markets for the Toyota Alphard luxury minivan. The best proof is the fact that it’s not difficult to spot one plying our roads, and how many buyers are having difficulty in finding a brand-new unit to purchase.

A good alternative to it was the GAC GN8 but that has already been discontinued locally. There’s nothing to worry about though as a replacement is coming soon as GAC Motor Philippines, under the distributorship of Astara Philippines, announced today that they will be launching the all-new GAC M8 in the country early next year. 

“We’re excited to present the GAC M8, a genuine fusion of opulence and innovation, to the Philippine market. Featuring cutting-edge technology, exquisite design, and unmatched comfort, the GAC M8 establishes a fresh benchmark in the premium MPV segment, and assures our customers an unmatched and pleasurable journey,” said GAC Motor Philippines Brand Head Franz Decloedt.

The GAC M8 was first unveiled in China last year, during the 2022 Chengdu Motor Show, as the second generation of the GAC GN8, which was also known as the GM8. The GAC GN8 did not really sell that well though there are a handful of examples on our roads. Surprisingly, the all-new M8 seems to be having good reception already with several gray market examples already running locally so GAC Motor Philippines has announced this at the right time.

Looking at its exterior, it is definitely imposing with the large front grille and LED headlights, and the wraparound LED taillights at the rear. Its interior is also very modern with large screens and makes use of premium materials. It also features aircraft business class-like seats like we can see on the Toyota Alphard.

GAC Motor Philippines has not given any specifics as to what powertrain we can expect under the hood of the all-new M8. Looking at the Chinese spec version, it could come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that produces 251 hp and 380 Nm of torque. Another option and one that can compete directly with the Toyota Alphard is another 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with 190 hp but paired with a 181 hp electric motor that is sourced from Toyota. The latter option can also be the first hybrid vehicle for the Chinese automaker locally.

In terms of safety, we can expect it to feature, just like the rest of the local GAC Motor Philippines lineup, a full suite of advanced driver-assist safety tech, dubbed as ADiGO. It could come with stuff like autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, among others.

The GAC M8 is set to be officially launched by the first quarter of next year. Do you think it has what it takes to eat into the segment dominated by the Toyota Alphard?