Automotive

What happens when the car you once loved returns as a Hybrid?

This is what it feels like to meet the Ford Territory… again.

Published

November 3, 2025

MJ Jucutan

When the love of my life turned into the loss of my life, driving felt like a chore I couldn’t bring myself to do. Driving wasn’t simply a way to get from Point A to Point B.

Every press on the accelerator once meant I was on my way to see someone I thought I’d build forever with. I could still picture us in traffic jams, singing songs off-key. Those memories made every drive feel alive.

But life doesn’t move according to your route. After that last drive with the Ford Territory Titanium X eight months ago, no other car or trip felt the same.

Everything since felt like errands. Just me, going somewhere, sometimes with people, but never with someone. For months, I stayed busy rebuilding, but healing sometimes feels like a road trip without a destination.

You start over, take turns you didn’t expect, and in the process, you realize others are evolving too. Case in point: the Ford Territory Titanium X, now reborn as a Hybrid.

I first saw it at its launch in Bonifacio Global City, and I didn’t feel any butterflies. But when I finally stepped inside for a drive to Baguio City, it felt… familiar.

It’s like meeting someone you used to know, only this time, they’ve grown softer and wiser. Maybe, I thought, this was my mirror moment. Maybe, I was meeting the better version of myself, too.

Upgraded, inside and out

At first glance, the Territory Hybrid Titanium X looks much like the one I used to know until you look closely.

Aside from the subtle Hybrid badge, it’s longer and wider, and maybe, even grander in presence. There’s a new grille, hood, and fenders, and a coast-to-coast LED light bar that glows (but only for the Titanium X trim).

It reminded me of the small shifts that happen when you heal. You buy new clothes, cut your hair, and even put up boundaries by saying “no” and then one day, someone will say “you look different.”

Inside, it felt like coming home. The cabin welcomed me with its familiar blend of leather. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the 12-inch infotainment display reminded me of the screen we used to play, but now I’ve used it to stream new songs that I enjoy.

It’s got the same creature comforts I’ve always loved, like the hands-free power tailgate that makes it convenient when you’re carrying loads of bags. Except maybe this time, I learned how to pack light and leave the weight I didn’t need to carry.

The difference now lies within. The hybrid powertrain, combined with the electric motor, kept it quiet that I almost consumed my own thoughts. It was calm that you wouldn’t notice the changes unless you listen closely.

But maybe that’s what growth is: changes that aren’t most visible, but what’s quietly working beneath the surface.

New company on the open road

I shared this drive with Kyle and Gab, fellow creators and journalists I met for the first time. We ditched the driver rotation plan, so we could take on the parts of the route we were best suited for.

Kyle handled the never-ending curves of Kennon and Asin roads. With slippery roads, we relied on the Territory’s electronic stability and traction control, especially during sharp turns. Kyle wasn’t too happy with it, but at least we had his steady hands to bring us back safely.

Gab and I swapped seats for the more monotonous stretches: the long, endless freeways. When Gab took over, the Automatic Emergency Braking kicked in twice. It startled us, especially me, as I sat in the backseat without a seatbelt on.

It was an unexpected jolt, but a much-needed one. Even though it annoyed us, it was comforting to know the car was still looking out for us even when we thought we didn’t need it.

Refilling my own tank

When it was my turn, I found myself recharging the hybrid’s battery along a long stretch of road. It was oddly satisfying, especially since I’d done it before.

As Kyle and Gab fell asleep — which I was proud of, or maybe they were just really tired — I thought of all the times I’d felt drained and how I’d learned to fill my own tank again.

Maybe that’s why I love hybrid cars. They remind me of how great I am at pouring love, keeping myself or others moving forward.

In this case, it was when Kyle took the wheel again, using the energy I restored to catch up with the convoy and speed up.

I’m glad we got our hands on the Titanium X trim. Beyond the shared safety suite such as stability control, traction control, hill assist, and 360-degree cameras, this top variant adds layers of luxury that matter.

For someone like me, who trains and races, the adaptive cruise control and lane-centering features are a blessing when exhaustion hits.

Meanwhile, the Blind Spot Information System and Rear Cross Traffic Alert feel like having an extra pair of eyes.

When your body’s too tired to think, all you need is a reminder that even when you can’t see what’s behind or beside you, the car’s got your back.

Where the road ends (and begins again)

It rained the moment we left Baguio City. The convoy blurred into mist ahead, and all I could see were red taillights. The wipers worked tirelessly while I tightened my grip on the wheel.

Thankfully, the Territory Hybrid Titanium X responded.

I trusted it the way you trust yourself after heartbreak. Not because I’m fearless, but because I’ve been through enough to know I’ll make it out.

At 100 km/h on TPLEX, I kept pace with the storm. Taylor Swift may have said “keep it 100” in her latest single “The Fate of Ophelia,” but I meant it differently.

The drive home didn’t feel like the end of this journey. It felt like closure.

The Ford Territory Hybrid Titanium X wasn’t the same car I fell in love with, and I wasn’t the same person who drove it then.

Both of us transformed, not because we wanted to be, but because life demanded it.

And maybe that’s what love, in all its forms, is supposed to be. Maybe you don’t need to hold on to what was, but you learn to drive forward in the company of new people and what remains.

By the time I parked, I wasn’t thinking about what I’d lost anymore. I was thinking about where I’d go next.

The Ford Territory Hybrid Titanium X starts at PhP 1,599,000 while the Trend variant starts at PhP 1,399,000. Both variants come in Oasis Green, Crystal Pearl White, Star White, Blue Panther, and Panther Black. Get it at dealerships nationwide.

Automotive

Porsche Cayenne Electric launches in the Philippines

Porsche’s electric SUV arrives locally.

Published

October 27, 2026

GadgetMatch

Porsche has introduced the all-electric Cayenne in the Philippines, expanding its flagship SUV lineup with a fully electric powertrain. The new model joins the existing gasoline and plug-in hybrid variants, giving buyers more options as the brand expands its electric vehicle lineup.

The launch also coincides with Porsche’s 30th anniversary in the Philippines, marking another milestone for the German automaker in the local market.

Porsche Cayenne Electric delivers up to 642km of range

The Philippine-spec Cayenne Electric features a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain paired with a 113kWh battery. It produces up to 325kW (442PS) and 835Nm of torque with Launch Control activated.

Porsche claims the electric SUV can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds. It also offers a driving range of up to 642 kilometers based on the WLTP testing cycle.

The Cayenne Electric supports DC fast charging at up to 400kW. This allows for faster charging at compatible high-powered charging stations. For home charging, the SUV comes with an 11kW onboard AC charger.

Digital cockpit and adjustable rear seating

The Cayenne Electric features a 3,023mm wheelbase, providing additional room for passengers. Its rear seats offer 150mm of fore-and-aft adjustment and up to 18 degrees of backrest tilt, allowing occupants to prioritize legroom or cargo space.

Inside, the SUV introduces Porsche’s Flow Display, a curved OLED interface that serves as the centerpiece of its digital cockpit. An optional 14.9-inch passenger display is also available for entertainment and navigation-related functions.

The cabin combines these digital features with a configurable seating layout designed to balance passenger comfort and practicality.

Porsche Cayenne Electric features adaptive air suspension

The Cayenne Electric comes with adaptive air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard. Buyers can also opt for rear-axle steering and an active-hydraulic chassis leveling system.

Its driver-assistance and parking features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Change Assist, ParkAssist with a 2D surround-view system, automated parking functions, and driver attention monitoring.

By offering the electric Cayenne alongside its combustion-engine and plug-in hybrid counterparts, Porsche continues to give customers a choice of powertrains while expanding its electric vehicle portfolio in the Philippines.

Porsche in the Philippines

Porsche Center Philippines has served as the official importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars in the country since 1996. Its offerings include the latest Porsche models, Porsche Lifestyle products, genuine parts, and after-sales services.

Automotive

Psst! You can test drive BYD and DENZA EVs for free this week, but not for long

Four days of EV displays, test drives, and a first look at the DENZA Z9 GT.

Published

October 8, 2026

GadgetMatch

BYD Cars Philippines and DENZA Philippines are opening Super Experience Week to the public starting October 8, 2026.

The event runs until October 11 and gives visitors a hands-on look at the brands’ latest EVs and plug-in hybrids, along with test drives and a few previews. Admission is free.

BYD brings its plug-in hybrids and safety program

BYD’s showcase at the BGC Amphitheater will feature the Sealion 6 DM-i and the Tang DM-i. The brand’s full lineup will be on display at the BGC Garden, where visitors can also take the cars out for test drives.

BYD is also running its “Drive Electric, EV Safety Program” at the event. It’s aimed at helping new and prospective owners learn more about EV use as the community in the Philippines continues to grow. BYD says visitors can also get exclusive offers on all of its models, but only during Super Experience Week.

DENZA shows its premium lineup and a first look at the Z9 GT

DENZA is the centerpiece of the event. The brand is displaying its D9, B5, and B8, positioned as premium smart mobility with an emphasis on design, in-car tech, electrified performance, and comfort.

The main draw is an exclusive preview of the DENZA Z9 GT. The Philippine launch is targeted for the first quarter of 2027, and reservations are already open for customers who want to register their interest before it arrives.

The weekend moves to 5th Avenue

On October 10 and 11, the event expands to 5th Avenue, which will host a dedicated performance and advanced mobility showcase. A special exhibition will feature YANGWANG models, BYD’s ultra-luxury new energy vehicles.

The DENZA B5, DENZA B8, and BYD Shark 6 DMO will also be on show in a street exhibition throughout the weekend.

Test drives across both the BYD and DENZA lineups will be available for the duration of the event, so visitors can check out the tech, performance, and comfort of each model firsthand.

Automotive

Electric luxury reimagined: XPENG launches next-gen EV lineup

XPENG’s PH lineup spans the X9 MPV and the L03, with prices starting at PhP 1,548,000

Published

September 28, 2026

MJ Jucutan

XPENG has officially entered the Philippine EV market. Over 3,000 guests attended the brand’s grand local debut. During the launch event, the automaker introduced a six-variant lineup.

The lineup features the flagship X9 MPV and the sleek L03 SUV Coupé. Prices start at an accessible PhP 1,548,000.

Brand ambassador Anne Curtis joined the celebration on stage, while XPENG showcased its X2 Flying Car and IRON Humanoid Robot. These futuristic displays highlighted the company’s “Physical AI” vision.

XPENG X9: First-class travel for seven

The XPENG X9 serves as the brand’s flagship seven-seater MPV.

It turns luxury mobility into a private lounge experience. Buyers can choose between two Long Range variants. The base X9 Long Range costs PhP 3,858,000. It features zero-gravity second-row seats with a central aisle. This layout ensures quick access to the third row. The Premium Seat Package costs PhP 4,058,000.

It upgrades the middle row to individual captain’s chairs. These chairs feature four-way powered headrests and 16-point massage.

Both variants share identical mechanical hardware. A front-wheel-drive motor produces 235 kW and 450 Nm of torque. A massive 110 kWh battery provides up to 615 km of range.

A compatible DC fast charger boosts power from 10 to 80 percent in 12 minutes. Active rear-wheel steering delivers a tight 5.4-meter turning radius. Dual-chamber air suspension ensures maximum ride comfort.

A powered third row folds completely flat beneath the floor. Color options include Midnight Black, Arctic White, Matte Gray, and Silver Frost. Inside, buyers can select Meteorite Black or Coffee.

XPENG L03: Sleek versatility meets electric freedom

The L03 SUV Coupé blends striking aesthetics with daily utility. XPENG offers four distinct variants. Three models use pure battery-electric powertrains. One model features a range-extended electric setup (REEV).

The L03 EV Standard Range costs PhP 1,548,000. Its 58.3 kWh battery delivers up to 445 km of range. The L03 EV Long Range costs PhP 1,698,000 and offers up to 520 km.

The top-tier Long Range Ultra costs PhP 2,058,000 with 480 km of range. This Ultra trim adds front-seat massage, upgraded audio, and intelligent driving tech.

The L03 REEV costs PhP 1,598,000. It uses an onboard gas engine as an electric generator. Its 37.2 kWh battery delivers 215 km of pure electric driving. Total WLTP combined range reaches up to 1,017 km.

All L03 models feature rear-wheel drive. Fast charging takes roughly 20 minutes to reach 80 percent. Every model includes a 15.6-inch touchscreen and 539 liters of cargo space.

Available colors include Arctic White, Midnight Black, Rock Gray, Silver Frost, and Phantom Purple.

Ownership packages, reservation details

XPENG pairs each model with generous ownership perks. X9 buyers receive five years of free preventive maintenance. The package includes five years of roadside assistance.

XPENG adds a five-year bumper-to-bumper warranty. An eight-year warranty covers the battery and motor. X9 buyers also receive a complimentary 7kW wall charger.

L03 buyers receive two years of free preventive maintenance. The L03 includes identical roadside, bumper-to-bumper, and battery warranties. L03 EV buyers get a 7kW wall charger. The REEV variant comes with a 3.5 kW portable charger.

Reservations cost PhP 25,000 for the X9 and PhP 10,000 for the L03. Buyers can reserve through @xpengphilippines on social media.

XPENG showrooms in Greenhills, Makati, North EDSA, and Cebu are accepting reservations now. Local customer deliveries will begin in the fourth quarter.