Automotive
Ford Everest Sport: Ideal companion for out-of-town reunions
Spacious enough to carry laughter, tears, and new memories
“The beauty of being an adult is you can make a new family with new traditions.”
Words from Captain Raymond Holt from the iconic comedy Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Words I held dear these past few years when I built a family through friends I met along the way.
It’s been two years since we’ve seen each other with the pandemic separating us. My friends-turned-family decided to plan a holiday reunion and celebrate all occasions we can squeeze in a few days. Unlike when we were younger, we can’t throw ourselves in different cars and commute by bus whenever we have a trip.
What changed is that one of my dearest brothers had an adorable son on the onset of a pandemic — which led us to find a suitable car that can bring us all together safe and sound.
Luckily, Ford Philippines responded to my request and lent me the Ford Everest 2.0L Sport 4×2 Automatic. I was about to sacrifice my dignity and ask one of my suitors to drive us around. That or we’ll be renting a car. Thank god, I didn’t. Whew!
So handsome, I could kiss you
When the Everest Sport arrived, I was stunned by its size, color, and overall vibe. It looked handsome and reliable, especially with that Deep Crystal Blue color. Somehow, it made me want to cradle my fingers across its body.
If I would personify the car, the Everest Sport would be the guy in reunions who wore dark, neutral clothes, seemingly unusual and brooding with mystery as he kept quiet in the corner. He’s totally reserved, but we know he can totally punch above his weight class.
Both the exterior and interior were designed smart and sleek, hosting features that everyone would rave about — not just techies, geeks, and drivers alike.

Everything is so damn reachable through the vast number of buttons that you can find on the steering wheel.
It’s a learning curve especially for the old-school drivers, but the youngsters appreciate modernity since it prioritizes safety, convenience, and ease.
Before we hop on a long trip up north to Pampanga, we decided to drive it around Alabang, so we can test it and stroll together with my godson.
Big space for the big boys
The Ford Everest 2.0L Sport 4×2 Automatic is a 7-seater SUV. If you’re going to occupy the third row, there’s barely space left for the compartment.
Since we’re only five adults and our adorable toddler refuses to sit in a booster seat, we folded the backseat flat so we can have a bigger cargo area.
It was roomy enough to place the baby stroller, along with our backpacks carrying our essentials: Laptops, extra clothes, care packages for the baby, and drinks.
I had to sit in the second row this time so I can take a few photos. I had one of my best friends, Oliver, take the wheel while my other best friend, Mark, is in charge of navigation and DJ-ing.
From afternoon to dusk, and even in the evening, the Everest Sport made us feel safe while driving around — especially with its bright LED headlamps. Some find it blinding and annoying, but it was quite helpful to us when driving in dimly-lit streets around the metro.
Excellent off-road capability

One of my best friends, Mark, took the steering wheel at some point due to his better grasp of driving at night. Blessed be his excellent eyesight 🤲🏻
Off the road, here we go!
Throughout the long drive to Pampanga, I had put my faith in my best friend, Oliver (and Jesus, somehow) who took the steering wheel.
My other best friend, Mark, took the family through a Manual Transmission Mitsubishi Mirage for an exhausting drive to get to the venue on time. (It was old and creaking, I pity my friend’s knees and feet throughout the trip.)
The Everest Sport became a storage solution, loading most of our suitcases and heavier baggage (bags, not feelings). By evening, we took the Stage 3 Skyway to reach North Luzon Expressway so we can enjoy a smooth, quick ride.
Just when I thought we’d be set for the rest of the night, we stumbled upon a muddy, uneven road full of craters on the way to the resort. While I commend my friend for crossing the off-road smoothly, the Everest Sport proved that it can take a beating — rocks and all.
Aside from the strength of its alloy wheels, the Terrain Management System and smart driving assistance features, together with the Everest Sport’s excellent suspension system, contributed to our victory in overcoming our sudden obstacle.
All things considered, the Everest Sport felt like an off-road truck but with a veneer of a family car.
Do you like it reverse or parallel?
We were the last car to arrive at the resort. Luckily, parking is a breeze with Everest Sport’s Enhanced Active Parking System. Whether you do reverse or parallel parking, the car can help you with its rear view camera.
Though, in a way, the vehicle knows how to park on its own. You just need to maneuver and assist the vehicle as it does the heavy lifting.
After unloading our baggage (again, literal bags and not feelings), we were delighted to set our sights on a Korean-inspired table to celebrate a friend’s birthday.
Lots of lettuce, grilled meat, side dishes, and Soju filled our tummies. It was a night to remember.
Like home but on the road
The next day, we drove around Angeles to pick up a cake for a baby shower, have lunch, and head to San Fernando, Pampanga for our annual Christmas reunion.
We don’t have the luxury to celebrate around December, what with all the flights abroad and going our separate ways to grow our own families. It was the season to squeeze in all the celebrations that we can.
This time around, we had more passengers. If there’s one thing that everyone keeps muttering: It’s so comfortable. The leather seat felt premium and kept us warm even if it was wintry inside.
There was enough legroom for both the power-adjustable driver seat and the passenger seat. Even the rear seat on the second row has enough space, except for the middle part. Whoever sits there might find it close-fitting since the driveshaft tunnel passes through with a hump.
In our case, it was Lorraine — the group’s mom who kept her toddler in place, playing around with the car’s temperature through a knob he discovered as he was snugged tightly in the middle.
Nevertheless, we were all eager to go around Pampanga. I’m still astounded with how safe and cozy everything was when riding the Everest Sport. Road trips are exhausting for most people, but the experience made us want to be on the road for several days.
We were rollicking while listening to Ariana Grande, Dua Lipa, and Bruno Mars through Ford’s musical soundstages and SYNC technology: a system that controls the vehicle’s temperature, music playback, and other safety features through a single tap or via voice commands.
Kind of like a tablet placed in front. It also connects with any smartphone through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. There are no Android versus iPhone here — we’re all welcome to enjoy the vehicle.
Four celebrations and a wedding
It wasn’t just us and our bags that were inside the Everest Sport. Throughout our get-togethers, we were planning a surprise wedding to recreate a ceremony that we weren’t able to attend, due to the sudden lockdown a few months back.
We brought cakes, cookware, and kitchen equipment to a contemporary villa in San Fernando. That’s on top of props to be used for the gender reveal, baby shower, late birthday celebration, and Christmas party.
On some occasions, I had to use the Everest Sport to do errands, such as buying fresh flowers to be used for the wedding. It was cozier than any other car in our garage, and of course, the car looks handsome like yours truly. If I’m going to parade myself, I’ll pick a car that’s worth showing off.
The nights we spent together felt like Taylor Swift’s latest re-recorded album Red (Taylor’s Version). There was a myriad of emotions felt.
Everything was just all over the place, like a fractured mosaic of feelings that somehow fit together in the end. We were happy, free, confused, euphoric, wild, nostalgic, elated, and fondly remembering the past while we create new memories.
Holidays just got merrier, and our bonds — thicker than blood — got tighter after our reunion. Distance may have made our hearts grow fonder, but feeling each other’s presence made them beat faster.
We were able to share love, laughter, tears, and sorrow. And everything we’ve been carrying for two years in the week we all spent together. Thanks to the Everest Sport, we were able to come together and get home safe and sound — ushering bittersweet memories that we’ll fondly recall in the coming months.
Pricing and availability
The Ford Everest 2.0L Sport 4×2 Automatic is available at a starting price of PhP 1,928,000. It comes in various colorways: Aluminum Metallic, Absolute Black, Deep Crystal Blue, and Snowflake White Pearl which can set you back by an additional PhP 15,000.
To know more about the latest offers, visit ford.com.ph/shopping/latest-offer/ or any Ford dealership nearest you.
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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