Is it a crossover? Is it a hatchback? Is it an APV? I, too, was confused when I first laid eyes on the 2019 Hyundai Kona. It was one of a kind, unique from any segment I was familiar with.
In line with the Mazda CX3 and Honda HRV, the Kona is a subcompact crossover SUV.
This vehicle is a true head-turner. I highly appreciate car companies whose designs are bold and thought of outside the box. In short, designs that make a statement.
The sleek and futuristic look of the Kona is best complemented in the flagship color Acid Yellow that gave my child-like imagination the impression of a glowing radioactive spaceship.
From the front, its fascia is exciting and modern in style with the growing trend of separated headlight design (like the Nissan Juke), streamlined daytime running lights, and low set fog lamps all go together with Hyundai’s trademark grille design.
Side profiles are matched with dynamic character lines as well as accents of matte black plastic cladding around the wheel arches and rocker panels.
Walking around to the back, you will find a design that is very consistent with the front. It’s almost identical and probably has one of the best looking rear-ends in its segment.
If we were to personify this Kona, it would undoubtedly be an extrovert. He’d be that kind of guy who’s not afraid of being a little flashy and would confidently come up to you to get your attention.
What I’m not a big fan of is the unnecessary amount of plastic cladding. Anyone who has ever owned a vehicle with this type of material will agree when I say it demands high maintenance since it tends to fade quickly.
Overall, the exterior feels exciting and fun, but stepping inside is a different story.
The interior is, well, basic. Scratchy-hard and soft plastic, fabrics, and polyurethane are the main materials used for the interior. It doesn’t give you the same exhilaration as the exterior and sadly feels like it stepped out of character.
Mounted on the dashboard, you will find a somewhat unappealing infotainment system — A non-touchscreen mono LCD unit that’s initially confusing to use while underneath is its manual climate control. Oh, and its instrument panel didn’t help spice the interior up, either, as it seemed a little too straightforward for this car’s asking price.
On the up-side, cabin space and comfort are not lacking whatsoever. With head and legroom to spare and plenty of cargo space for everyone. Cup holders, USB ports, and 12V sockets also come as standard.
When it comes to safety, Hyundai didn’t skimp on this crossover as it earned a high safety rating in the United States. With a score of 9.8, it has been given the Top Safety Pick+ award. It has Anti-Lock Braking System, traction control, dual airbags, and side curtain airbags as standard.
The ride is decently high with a ground clearance of 170mm, nearly as much as its bigger brother, the Tucson. Firing up the engine via keyless push-start button, you hear a smooth running 2.0 DOHC engine.
This is then mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission that produces 147hp and 179nm of torque. It’s not the most powerful but is definitely one of the most economical, giving you up to 20km per liter (at best) on highways.
The Kona has three different driving modes you can shift through with a push of a button. You have Normal, Eco and Sport modes which just basically times gear changes differently to give you better responsiveness.
Driving this vehicle is very simple with no unneeded drama. The ride felt smooth and quiet while steering felt properly firm. You do get a bit of body roll around the corners, though.
Lacking from this vehicle is a reverse camera and proximity sensors and, from its price point, you would expect these features as standard. A feature I didn’t find necessary was the hill descent control which would be useful on its AWD variant but not on the FWD version that we have.
For now, the 2.0 GLS is the only variant available here in the Philippines. A straightforward, rather basic but economical ride that would make a perfect daily driver. Although if I were to choose between the two Kona models, I would probably go for the higher AWD 1.6 turbo Ultimate trim model which is a better option than the GLS trim.
To sum it up, it’s a bit of a bummer that it lacks a reverse camera, proximity sensors, and still runs a sub-par infotainment system in this age of touchscreens and Android Auto. What I do like, though, is how it looks. This car unquestionably wins in the looks department. And factoring in its safety achievements and fuel economy, we can easily overlook its shortcomings.
Automotive
VinFast debuts two-wheeler models, opens 21 e-motorcycle showrooms
Evo, Feliz II, Viper officially launched
VinFast is pouncing on its growing presence in the Philippines, expanding with 21 electric motorcycle showrooms housing its new two-wheeler offerings.
The electric vehicle company just launched three two-wheeler offerings in the market: the VinFast Evo, Feliz II, and Viper.
Such milestone marks an important step in VinFast’s expansion in one of Southeast Asia’s largest two-wheeler markets.
The introduction of the three VinFast two-wheeler models offer drivers a modern, cost-effective, and sustainable mobility alternative.
Evo, Feliz II, and Viper each offer distinct characteristics designed to meet a wide range of mobility needs and riding styles.
Evo has a top speed of 80 km/h and a range of up to 150 km with two fully charged batteries. The Feliz II emphasizes practicality and versatile performance, with a top speed of 90 km/h.
Rounding out the lineup is Viper, featuring a sporty design, maximum power output of 5,200W, and a top speed of 90 km/h.
The aforementioned 21 pioneer dealerships will begin operations in major cities nationwide. This allows VinFast to offer products and authorized services directly to consumers.
The network is expected to grow further in the coming period, progressively expanding with VinFast’s presence in the country.
Just over a month ago, VinFast’s early booking program drew thousands of customers nationwide.
The strong market response can be attributed to VinFast’s battery-swapping approach, contributing to the appeal of the e-scooters.
Following the launch, the public can expect immersive experience activities across the new dealerships throughout August 2026.
Customers will be able to see and test ride the three models. They can also learn about battery technology and sales policies, and explore flexible ownership options.
Automotive
Xiaomi debuts SkyNomad Series featuring new Kunlun platform
Intelligent, reconfigurable large-space SUV
Xiaomi EV is ushering in a new era with the launch of the Xiaomi SkyNomad Series in China, the first model built on the new Xiaomi Kunlun Platform.
The new EV is positioned as an intelligent, reconfigurable large-space SUV built around on three core strengths: expansive interior space, completely flat cabin floor, and reconfigurable seating.
It is paired with the Xiaomi Kunlun HyperRange, Xiaomi Armor Scale Battery, and Xiaomi Kunlun Total Safety.
The SkyNomad’s cabin electronics run on a four-in-one domain control model built on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 platform. It features Dual 5G and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity.
The launch unveiled two models: the first is the flagship 7-seater extended-range SUV Xiaomi SkyNomad N90 Max (RMB 299,900) while the other is the 5-seat AWD SUV Xiaomi SkyNomad N70 Max (RMB 259,900).
These EVs have a battery capacity range of 52 to 76kWh. On CLTC, the N70 Max can reach up to 505 kilometers of EV-only range. Dual-motor all-wheel delivers 310kW of peak power.
Design born for space
The Xiaomi SkyNomad’s design philosophy is based on prioritizing function, while form complements it.
Every design feature traces back to a specific spatial need. And the spatial logic shows up directly in the body, through squared-off proportions.
Three lines define the upright stance: a flat roofline for maximized second and third-row headroom, a continuous waistline, and a rising sill line to lift the visual center of gravity.
A rounded-rectangle motif carries theough the headlights, taillights, door handles, and side cameras for a cohesive design language that features over 140 aerodynamic optimizations.
Smart electric doors open by touch or voice, while rear doors open to nearly 90° for easy passage.
Xiaomi Kunlun built for space
Where the Xiaomi Kunlun architecture comes in is for optimizing packaging across three axes to minimize structural intrusion in the cabin.
The front cabin integration includes a five-in-one EREV system, integrated water-cooling module, mid-mounted HVAC unit, and PTC-compressor two-in-one, compressing the front cabin length to just 1,265mm.
Springs and shock absorbers, on the other hand, are separated into a split layout. This releases 15mm of wheel-arch height for the third row.
Moving the shock absorbers outward optimizes the overall wheel-arch packaging for a full-cabin spatial experience.
Lastly, the rear electric drive unit comes with a highly integrated rear coaxial electric drive to free up 145mm of vertical space.
An integrated-linkage independent suspension uses an H-arm structure to lower the floor by an extra 37mm. Additionally, the large battery pack control module relocated inside reduces floor thickness by 180mm.
The N90 Max comes with 2,760mm of total occupant space and 1,831L of cargo space.
The cabin also includes 34 storage compartments, including an 18.4L front passenger glove box and extended door-panel storage.
Elevated cabin experience
Inside, the SkyNomad’s cabin has an elevated and homelike atmosphere. A cabinet-style center console extends 1,530mm horizontally for a wider visual and physical footprint.
Hidden mechanical air vents keep the dashboard clean while retaining precise manual adjustment. There’s also an accessory port for 27W fast charging, along with mounts for phones, action cameras, and more small devices.
There is a customizable head-up display, 25-speaker audio system, and 6.9-inch rear control screen for full control from the back seat.
Moreover, the front and second row backseats use a 12-layer comfort structure, with the front seats coming with 16-point massage ventilation and heating.
Built on a flat floor, every model comes with extra-long seat slide rails with up to 900mm of travel for both second and third rows.
These rails use aerospace-grade 7-series reinforced aluminum alloy, validated through 15,000 cycles.
The entire interior varries OEKO-TEX certification, applying to infant-grade safety standards.
Extensive personalization options
The Xiaomi SkyNomad comes in three colorways: Volcanic Gray, Mountain Green, and Valley Blue.
Meanwhile, owners can choose from Cream Beige and Mocha Brown for the interior.
The N90 Max wheel options include standard 21″ Prism-shaped Rims, plus optional 21″ Beam-shaped Rims, and 21″ Starbust-shaped Rims Stealth Black Edition for a sportier look.
The variable space inside is designed around real usage patterns. There are plenty of seating configurations, which can all be accessed through the Xiaomi HyperXiaoAi AI assistant.
The independent first and second row seats can face each other. The second and third rows can slide all the way back for even more leg room like a first-class cabin.
Moreover, one touch can turn the second and third rows into a bed. The front seats can be rotated as well to extend the bed’s length.
For transporting plenty of cargo, one touch can activate Ultimate Storage Mode as well.
Safety features
Through Xiaomi Kunlun Total Safety, the SkyNomad’s engineering comes with a system spanning materials, structure, airbags, battery, and the variable-space design itself.
Safety features include:
- high-strength steel and aluminum alloy (90.4% of the EV’s body)
- 2,200 MPa ultra-high-strength steel in 16 critical locations
- 2,200 MPa embedded roll cage for roof-crush load of nearly 14 tons
- 2,200 MPa anti-collision beams
- 13-in-1 integrated hot-formed door ring
- 2,000 MPa integrated hot-formed front floor frame
- 12 airbags across all rows
- 9 collision sensors including added front and C-pillar sensors
- triple-redundant door handles
- dual emergency pull handles
- emergency wading up to 750mm
- 26 standard driver assistance safety features
- 39 anti-pinch points
- Sentry Mode
Automotive
GAC launches new trio of MPVs
New models deliver tailor-made experiences for every user, journey
GAC has officially launched a new trio of multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) in the Philippines: the GAC GN6, GAC E8 HEV, and GAC GN8 PHEV Executive.
The three new models form a purpose-built lineup engineered to deliver tailor-made experiences for every user and every journey.
The lineup is designed around three foundational pillars: flexible space, thoughttul engineering, and reliable performance.
Having three models also cater to a wider range of consumers, from the entry-level segment to the luxury flagship tier.
GAC GN6: flexible comfort, smart space
Price: PhP 1,298,000 (with PhP 100,000 introductory discount)
The entry point to the GAC MPV family, the all-new GAC GN6 represents flexible mobility.
It is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, with up to 176.6 PS and 270 Nm of torque.
A 190mm center aisle allows easier movement between the first and third rows. The GAC GN6 also comes with 324L of luggage space with all seven seats in use.
In case additional cargo space is needed, the third row seats fold flat to expand the capacity to 1,100L.
The cabin includes a 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and dual-zone automatic climate control with rear controls.
Safety features include: six airbags, electronic stability control, 360-degree HD panoramic camera, and advanced driver assistance systems.
GAC E8 HEV: Premium comfort, hybrid efficiency
Price: GL – PhP 1,858,000 / GX – PhP 1,998,000 (PhP 1,778,000 / PhP 1,918,000 introductory prices)
Meanwhile, the GAC E8 HEV is designed for a more premium MPV experience that combines an efficient hybrid powertrain with first-class passenger comfort and flexible space.
The hybrid system pairs a 2.0L hybrid dedicated engine, producing 140 PS and 180 Nm, with an electric motor generating 182 PS and 300 Nm.
Managed by a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission, the system delivers a combined driving range of more than 1,000 kilometers from the 60L fuel tank.
Built on a 2,930mm wheelbase, the E8 HEV features a low 375mm step-in height to make entry and exit easier.
The interior offers up to 18 seating configuations. Second-row occupants benefit from One-Touch Zero Gravitt seats with power leg rests, ventilation, and massage functions.
The third row Magic Storage seats, meanwhile, can fold flat for up to 1,917L of cargo space. Users can also configure it for Tea Break Mode.
Other features include: acoustic laminated glass, dual sunroofs, power-sliding doors, wireless phone charging, 14.6-inch touchscreen, and ADiGO intelligent driving technologies.
GAC GN8 PHEV Executive: Flagship luxury, comfort
Price: PhP 3,488,000 (with PhP 150,000 introductory discount)
At the top of the MPV hierarchy is the GAC GN8 PHEV Executive.
This seven-seat flagship is created for executive chauffeuring, VIP travel, and flagship family comfort.
Measuring 5,247mm long and riding on a 3,070mm wheelbase, the GN8 PHEV Executive combines a 2.0L turbocharged Miller-cycle engine with a permanent-magnet synchronous motor. The system produces a combined 373 HP and 630 Nm of torque.
Its 25.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery provides an electric driving range of up to 120 kilometers. The total combined range is up to 1,038 kilometers. DC fast charging can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in about 45 minutes.
Inside, the vehicle offers a cabin designed to function as a private luxury lounge or mobile boardroom.
It has a Zero Breeze Air Conditioning system with more than 1,600 micro-vents, while hidden six-directional seat vibration dampers help absorb road movement for a smoother and quieter ride.
Second row captain’s seats feature four-way power leg rests, position memory, heating, ventilation, fold-out tray tables, and massage functions.
The flagship cabin also includes soundproof glass for the first and second rows. There is a 16-speaker audio system, a streaming-video rearview mirror, tri-zone automatic climate control, PM2.5 air filtration, and more.
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