Automotive
My first long drive with the Next-Gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4
My knees were in pain, but my heart is giddy from new memories made
Many moons ago, I was an adorable passenger prince, providing food and entertainment to my designated drivers. I was happy being the navigator and staring at myself in the side mirror.
I guess life took a 180; I found myself taking the wheel, driving an enormous pickup truck across cities.
Having the Next-Gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 for a week gave me a fair amount of opportunities to try things for the first time.
Navigating an expressway alone (and not missing an exit), speeding up to 100km/h, crossing pitch-black roads at midnight, and being able to drive under heavy rain; It was euphoric to have sundry accomplishments for a few days.
But my biggest win was driving from East to South to North and back. It was my first long drive and boy, you never really forget your first. I was living on the road for a week!
Ready for battle
It wasn’t my first rodeo at the Next-Gen Ranger. I brought the XLT variant with me when I took part in a back-to-back Spartan race in the trails of Vermosa.
However, I didn’t take it past my set destination because, at that time, I was still afraid of hauling a gargantuan vehicle.
Having the Ranger Wildtrak was a game-changer, though. Being in the driver’s seat was so comfortable, thanks to the 8-way power adjustable driver seat. Having short legs didn’t bother me at all.
Driving didn’t feel like a chore then, so I volunteered to pick up my friends from their homes in Laguna and Cavite. (Who am I?)
With only a grande Starbucks cold brew and a Taylor Swift driving playlist from Spotify streaming via Apple CarPlay, along with a charged iPhone and highly responsive Maps appearing on the 12-inch Portrait Touchscreen, I felt armed enough to drive alone.
It was an adventure, navigating different types of roads under different conditions. I crossed a flooded street after a heavy downpour and it didn’t even reach half of the tires. (That’s what I like about driving huge, towering cars.)
I even took on slopes, curves, and dimly lit highways while raining. Not once did I feel scared knowing the vehicle I have sports C-Clamp LED headlamps on its grille. Some motorists even thought we were on high beam!
And in some occasions, we even had to navigate narrow streets that seemed one-way. My skills were tested as I had to make way for other passing vehicles.
I’m incredibly grateful for the 360-degree camera on how it helped me alight in tight spaces. I’m certain I would cry in panic if I didn’t have the technology with me.
When I became Mr. Overtaker
What gave me the confidence boost to take on my first long drive is how accustomed I’ve been to Ford’s Advanced Driver-Assist Technology.
Being familiar with its system assured me that the vehicle had my back, and sometimes, it could even do the brunt of the legwork for me.
On occasions when I speed up on the freeway, the Ranger often alerts me when it can’t feel my grip on the steering wheel, then automatically navigating and helping with lane centering. This is extremely helpful in the curves.
I was also dubbed ‘Mr. Overtaker’ by my friends, seeing how I easily maneuvered the vehicle on the freeway and national highways. The Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic helps me in overtaking slower cars and changing lanes
When vehicles in front of me abruptly stopped or slowed down, the Ranger was quick enough to issue a forward collision warning. The system worked even faster when there was a truck in front of me that suddenly hit the brakes, and I had a close call. The automatic emergency brake helped prevent a possible collision.
Moreover, it helps when reversing and passing motorcycles won’t just give way. I vividly remember how the Ranger prompted me to step on the brake because of incoming motorists and pedestrians as I was trying to reverse back to the highway.
Built for adventure
Everything about the Next-Gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 screams adventure, with its tough-looking exterior and sophisticated interior.
It felt apt for the Next-Gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 to be our vehicle of choice as we joined the staff of Spartan Race Philippines. We were part of the media team (and your boy is an official photographer) for the two-day race, where national athletes, top trail runners, and even celebrities competed.
The venue was situated on the hilly side of Bacnotan, La Union, making the roads steep, narrow, and a bit rocky.
Even the bypass roads between San Fernando and San Juan were cranky and muddy; I had to trail off and feel the power of the vehicle so we didn’t get stuck. On certain parts of our drive, I just had faith in the Ranger because I know it’s made for the great outdoors. Like yours truly, it can handle any obstacles you throw at it.
I’d like to think my passengers and I had a comfortable ride all throughout, knowing I haven’t heard any complaints since then.
At some point, they were all freezing from the air conditioning inside, but I took control of the temperature so they couldn’t do anything about it.
I’d do it again in a heartbeat
We took a detour to Poro Point to see the lighthouse and the baywalk before we drove back to Manila. Lots of stop-overs, heartfelt conversations, a barrage of laughter, and misadventures occurred during our long drive.
New memories were made and I don’t have any regrets when my knees screamed in pain after the trip. It was extremely fun to take on long drives with people close to your heart.
The tailgate lift assist is perfect for hanging out and dillydallying when you have free time. During one of our stopovers, we sat at the truck bed and exchanged stories while eating and drinking.
My first long drive, which started in the slopes of Rizal down to the forested part of Laguna, across the busy streets of Cavite, and towards the beachside and mountainous trails of La Union, is quite a memory that I’d like to cherish.
Every moment is worth remembering, and it’s great to have companions who are game for every adventure you’d like to try. And yes, the Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 is a great outdoor buddy.
It’s strong, adventure-ready, and packed with creature comforts to make any long drive cozy and feel like home — even when on the road. Plus, the safety features and technology make you feel like the Ranger has your legs and back.
Don’t get me wrong, though; I’d still love to be a passenger prince and stare at myself in the side mirrors. But if you ask me for a long drive once more with a Next-Gen truck like the Ranger Wildtrak 4×4, I’d do it again in a heartbeat, no doubt.
Next-Gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4
For more information about the Next-Gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4×4, visit the Ford Ranger page. Reserve the Next-Gen Ford Ranger through www.ford.com.ph or check your nearest Ford dealer.
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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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