Automotive

Starting the newly engaged life with the Kia EV9

Wedding planning doesn’t have to be impossible with the right (electric) support system.

Published

September 2, 2025

Luigi Leonardo

Two months ago, I became the happiest man on the planet.

I proposed to my girlfriend of seven years. For two months, my life has been a dream, both because it all feels so surreal and so… unknown. No matter how much you say to yourself that you’re ready, nothing can truly prepare you for the next chapter. Or even just the transition period before the next chapter, a.k.a. the wedding.

Though we decided to hold our wedding in 2027, our days have already been filled with constant planning: hunting for creative ideas, finding compromises between our eclectic tastes, and stressing out over absurd prices.

When you’re busy planning for the next milestone in your life, the last thing you need is to stress out over everything else besides the wedding. So, when I got the Kia EV9 for a week, I learned to appreciate all the little things and focus on what’s really important.

Testing out new limits

A relationship comes with its fights. When you’re planning for your first major event as a couple, you find new limits and disagreements. Sometimes, you don’t agree on a design or the budget.

Likewise, when you drive a new car, you need to test its limits. The Kia EV9 taught me patience, because the car itself practically has no limits. This beast has 384 horses and 700Nm of torque.

Though I kept within the speed limit, I felt the raw power lurking underneath. Thank goodness I have a lighter foot because even a small tap revs this baby up. Driving it on SLEX was bliss on all four wheels.

But keeping safe within those limits

Easy driving is crucial when you’re starting to plan for a wedding. That’s because everything starts with a good venue. And hunting for a good venue comes with several oculars, often out of town. Besides its power, the Kia EV9 makes long road trips a breeze with its ADAS features.

Our first ocular was a quaint space in Laguna called Lakehall at Nena’s Sanctuary. From the very beginning, we knew we wanted something like this: a spacious garden-type venue with picturesque views of a lake and a golf course. It felt perfect, based solely on how it looked in photos. But obviously, it was quite a drive from our homes in Quezon City, spanning both the Skyway and SLEX.

Of course, the car has cruise control and blind spot detection. The highlight, however, is its sensitive lane keeping and lane following assists. The EV9 will keep you from changing lanes when it detects another car coming fast from the next lane. It also has forward collision avoidance, which is perfect for those trips on the fast lane.

Both side “mirrors” are just rear-facing cameras with screens mounted inside the vehicle on either side. It takes some getting used to, but they offer great views of traffic beside and behind. Likewise, the rearview mirror is convertible into a screen. If you’re travelling with a lot of luggage, the camera system offers an unobstructed view of the back.

With all of these nifty features, I felt safe for long trips.

A new life in comfort

After our big day in Laguna, we went to a wedding of a mutual friend in the city.

Now, a plethora of safety features is also important for city driving. But what I really want for driving around Metro Manila is an even more impressive array of comfort and convenience features, especially when facing tough traffic conditions.

It’s not an exaggeration when I say that the Kia EV9 is the most luxurious car I’ve ever driven. There are so many creature comforts. The driver’s seat, for example, moves in eight directions, has lumbar support, massage functions, and cooling. Likewise, passenger seats have the same, if not a bit lesser, functionalities. Whether you’re a driver or a passenger, the EV9 makes you feel like you’re travelling in first class.

The entire cabin comes with tri-zone climate control. It doesn’t matter much if you’re travelling with someone who gets cold easily. Personally, I prefer keeping the driver’s area cool, while my fiancée likes it warmer. Of course, I still get too cold, especially when my fingers are dab smack in front of the vents. Thankfully, the steering wheel has heating, so I can keep driving comfortably.

Entertainment is no issue, either. The EV9 comes with fourteen Meridian speakers, a huge 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and support for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. It also has an abundance of USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad on the center console, and a plug at the back.

All of these were so useful while going through Manila traffic between the church and the reception venue. We also had a lot of time in between, so we decided to just chill in the car for a while. It was like staying in our own little hotel room.

In it for the long haul

Finally, we capped off our short Kia EV9 stint with a date at Café Giya in Angono. A trip to Rizal had us going up and down winding roads. It’s a different beast compared to open freeways and tight streets. Because it’s our third big trip, we started worrying about the range of the Kia EV9.

Actually, we had nothing to worry about. The car has a gargantuan 99.8kWh battery. A full charge can supposedly last over 500 kilometers. Even if this estimate is generous, getting mileage close to this number is already impressive for a full EV. Our short stint wasn’t enough to truly test the battery, but our long trip from Quezon City to Laguna knocked off only 20 percent of the battery.

By the time we went to Rizal, the car didn’t have full range anymore. In fact, we were hovering around 30 percent. At this time, we decided to give the regenerative braking a try. The EV9 has paddles for increasing the intensity of the braking. At full force, it also has i-PEDAL STOP.

The higher levels are usually what you’d expect from regenerative braking. However, at maximum, the i-PEDAL STOP makes it so that you don’t even need to brake anymore. It feels a bit jerky at first, but it’s oddly satisfying to rely purely on the car to brake for you.

Because the car is fully electric, I didn’t have a gas tank to rely on for a full recharge using the braking. Still, using Rizal’s many slopes to recharge helped me keep my dwindling battery alive until I got to a charging station. With 11kW AC charging, it takes almost 10 hours to charge, but only 83 minutes with 50kW DC or 24 minutes with 350kW DC charging.

Range anxiety, begone!

This is how you start a new chapter

This three-leg trip was our first major event as a newly engaged couple. We had disagreements. We had tough spots. But we had fun. We found new ways to love.

The engaged life is fraught with challenges, but it doesn’t have to be an unnavigable nightmare. With the right support and the right mindset, love will always find a way to rise to the top.

Like Pegasus to Hercules, the Kia EV9 was our loyal steed. We pushed the car (and ourselves) to the limit, but it delivered everything we needed.

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.