MANILA: The GAC GS8 sport utility vehicle (SUV) will get a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) variant soon.
GAC International Philippines has confirmed its arrival during the brand’s recently held dealer conference, where it previewed the said iteration of the nameplate.
Before we talk about the GAC GS8 HEV, here is a quick look at what transpired at the recent dealer conference.
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The 2026 GAC Philippines Dealer Conference was conducted under the theme “Building Success Together as One GAC,” and was the first time that GAC International Philippines has brought its entire dealer network under one roof.
Members of its dealer network took the opportunity to align with the “One GAC” philosophy, One Channel, and One Service programs, which aim to provide consistency in service, sales, and customer experience.
Photo from GAC International PhilippinesSince the exit of Astara Philippines, the brand’s previous local distributor, the company has been managed directly by GAC International.
“The change to self-operation shows strong confidence in the local market. It also means we will invest more resources, strengthen the local team, and fully support all partners for win-win growth,” Senior Vice President of GAC International Steven Wang was quoted as saying.
At the time of writing, the model’s specifications and features have yet to be published by GAC International Philippines. However, it is said that the GS8 HEV uses the brand’s “Mega Wave THS” hybrid system, which uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and two electric motors.
The setup is touted to provide a good balance of performance and makes the beefy SUV even more efficient for both daily drive and spontaneous weekend adventures.
Photo from GAC International PhilippinesDespite the new powertrain system, the upcoming GAC GS8 HEV will retain its boxy design and seven-seater interior layout, which could please fans who fell in love with its rugged appeal.
GAC International Philippines noted that it will begin accepting orders for the electrified SUV in March 2026. On that note, more details, specifically the model’s pricing and full specifications, will be shared in due time.
While we wait for the official data, let’s check the GAC GS8 HEV’s specifications in the global market.
Other regions get the GAC GS8 HEV with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that can produce up to 188 horsepower (hp) and 320 Newton-meters of torque. Its front motor adds a further 180 hp and 270 Nm, while its rear motor provides 53 horses and 121 Nm of pulling power.
Unlike the non-hybrid GAC GS8, which uses an eight-speed automatic gearbox, the GS8 HEV uses an electronic continuously variable transmission (E-CVT).
Photo from GAC International PhilippinesSuspension-wise, the hybrid model rides on a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link arrangement.
Maintaining its almost go-anywhere capabilities, the GAC GS8 HEV’s global versions comes with an all-wheel-drive system (thanks to its dual electric motors), as well as several terrain/drive modes.
Notable features of the global-spec GAC GS8 HEV include the following:
There is still no confirmation when GAC International Philippines plans to release the GS8 HEV.
However, given the ripe landscape where more Filipino car buyers are going for hybrid cars over fully electric vehicles, we suspect that it could happen in the following months.
This year, organizations will be staging some much-awaited auto expos, in the form of the Manila International Auto Show, Philippine International Motor Show, and Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit.
And since the model is a hybrid, we think it could fit in either of the events.
Also read:
GAC GS8: The 4 available colors
GAC Motor PH brings in Empow, all-new GS8
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