Automotive
The car that lasted longer than the road trip
We drove the BYD Seal 5 DM-i for 800KM on a three-day adventure in three provinces.
Never in my life did I think I’d find myself driving a total of 800KM in just three days. I was crammed into a hybrid sedan, speeding down coastal highways, winding across mountain roads, and occasionally being caught in excruciating traffic jams. Yet, here we are.
That’s exactly what went down when we took the BYD Seal 5 DM-i on a three-day adventure across Pangasinan, Zambales, and Bataan. We had a mix of sun, sand, long roads, and a hybrid system put to the test.
The great escape (or so we thought)
We kicked off the trip at Seda Manila Bay, hoping to make a quick getaway via the Skyway.
Newsflash: Manila traffic doesn’t care about your road trip ideas. We left during rush hour, inching forward at a turtle’s pace, which gave us ample time to truly appreciate the Seal 5 DM-i’s cabin.
Because what else do you do when you’re basically parked on an elevated highway?
I got first dibs on the front passenger seat — AKA DJ duties. I connected my iPhone to the BYD Seal 5 DM-i via Apple CarPlay.
It was mostly to show to my mates, Milo and Paulo, that BYD clearly prefers Android Auto which is a nod to its Chinese roots. (I kept getting disconnected when using Apple CarPlay.)
My Sunday’s Best playlist was on full blast as we explored the spacious, tech-packed interior that felt premium and futuristic.
Milo tinkered with the massive touchscreen and digital instrument cluster — switching between hybrid power and full electric mode — while I got lost admiring the minimalist but sleek interior.
The insulated cabin, wrapped in soft leather seats, blocked out the city’s honking symphony.
For a moment, it was just us, the open road, and James Ingram’s “Just Once” playing in the background.
Jesus takes the wheel
We took turns driving, making designated stops so everyone could get a feel for the hybrid sedan. When my turn came, I wasn’t fully confident.
Blame it on waking up at 5 AM, sleeping past midnight, and the tragic absence of Starbucks.
But here’s what I love about BYD’s vehicles: they drive you rather than the other way around.
The Seal 5 DM-i’s driver-assist features are intuitive and responsive, making it feel like I was piloting a top-tier luxury car.
On the freeway, lane-keeping assist kept me steady at 90-100kph, even as I struggled to match the lead car’s pace. As the second car in the convoy, I was setting the rhythm for the group, which was a daunting task but made effortless by the sedan’s smooth handling.
Adaptive Cruise Control stayed off (too much overtaking for that), but the hybrid sedan’s suspension held firm. No excessive body roll, no unexpected jerks. Just steady, confident driving, even on uneven provincial roads.
Passenger princess mode
After a lunch stop at Red Baron Restaurant — a must-visit Northern Loop gem featuring vintage motorcycles and mouthwatering food — I finally claimed my well-earned backseat nap.
By then, we’d clocked over 200KM, and Paulo took over the wheel.
Unfortunately for him, he got the nerve-wracking stretch — crossing the country road from Pangasinan to Zambales, overtaking on a two-lane highway filled with 10-wheelers, tricycles, and pedestrians meandering onto the road.
Meanwhile, I was fully embracing my passenger princess mode. The backseat was incredibly comfortable, and the cabin remained whisper-quiet.
Milo was tapping away on his phone, while Paulo stayed laser-focused on driving. As for me, I was curled up with my denim jacket, half-asleep from the gentle hum of the road.
A coastal retreat
Our first night was at Kalinto Resort in Botolan, Zambales. It’s a hidden sanctuary where modern comforts meet nature’s best.
Ocean in front, mountains behind, and a cozy stay in between.
There was no bonfire session for us (due to a sudden downpour), but after dinner, I knocked out. I got nine hours of uninterrupted sleep, waking just before sunrise.
That morning, Kalinto revealed its magic. I walked along the coastline, soaking in the sound of waves, the cool morning breeze, and the pinkish hue of the pre-sunrise sky.
Armed with a Spanish latte and a classic Filipino tapa breakfast, I was ready to take on another day of driving.
The BYD Seal 5 DM-i, parked on the driveway, looked even better in the daylight. It’s one of those cars that belong anywhere, whether parked outside a fancy resort or tearing down provincial highways.
The sporty, elegant sedan aesthetic isn’t usually my thing, but something about this car just spoke to me.
It felt like a reflection of my journey: Chasing dreams, navigating challenges, but always finding time to play and unwind.
Fuel efficiency face off
The next day, we turned the trip into an efficiency contest. Whoever’s car had the highest range and fuel by the end of Day 2 would win.
What I realized too late was that we forgot to switch to EV mode after topping up the battery with regenerative braking.
On the first day, Milo started the drive purely on EV mode, dropping our battery to 27%. When Paulo and I took over, we used HEV mode, running on fuel but completely forgetting to go back to electric.
With that in mind, we strategized better for the next leg. Switching between EV and HEV was seamless with a simple press of a button in the center console.
One minute, I was gliding on electric power. The next, the 1.5L engine kicked in with enough muscle, especially for overtaking.
A lunch stop in Subic
After two hours of driving, we arrived in Subic Bay, a place I haven’t been to in decades.
There was something refreshing about the tree-lined streets and wide roads, which is a complete contrast to Manila’s traffic chaos.
We pulled up at Subic International Golf Club, a hidden gem that felt like a different world altogether. There were just lush greens, perfectly manicured fairways, and a peaceful ambiance.
You don’t even have to be a golf enthusiast to appreciate this place.
Lunch was an absolute feast, and I started admiring the view — realizing that road trips are only as good as the stops you make.
A quick game followed on who could fit the most items in the BYD Seal 5 DM-i’s compartment.
We lost (I’m too meticulous about packing neatly), but it was fun.
With our stomachs still full and the afternoon heat kicking in, we were back on the road. Next stop: La Jolla Resort in Bagac, Bataan.
On the zigzags
Reaching La Jolla Luxury Beach Resort in Bagac, Bataan, meant tackling winding mountain roads with sharp curves and steep downhills.
When it was my turn, I gripped the steering wheel and felt the weight of each turn.
Though the BYD Seal 5 DM-i made it easy to maneuver through the curves, I was consumed by my fear and anxiety.
In my head, I kept thinking what if we topple over, crash, or fall out of a cliff?
After an intense drive that felt like a car chase with the lead car, I finally let Milo take over.
He, of course, had other plans — channeling his inner race car driver and pushed the hybrid sedan to its limits.
And just like that, we arrived at La Jolla Luxury Beach Resort just in time for sunset.
That night, we reveled in some much-needed cocktails, good food, and good vibes.
Oh, we also won the efficiency contest — making our car-slash-team the most efficient drivers for the group.
Battle with motion sickness
The next day, we struggled with another set of curved roads. This time, they’re steeper, and luckily, it was Milo who was assigned to drive that leg. (He’s an expert in drifting, I guess.)
For whatever reason, even when I was riding on the front passenger seat, I had to take out my Poy-Sian menthol inhaler to avoid feeling like throwing up.
Milo told me to focus on the road ahead, instead of looking elsewhere to feel better. That didn’t help though, so I just stuck my inhaler to my nose and closed my eyes.
Thankfully, it was only half an hour of driving in the curves, and we’re suddenly in the clear to have lunch again. At that time, we already had over 600km and by the time we arrive in Manila, we’ll reach a total of 800km drive.
I was excited to go home, even when I reveled at luxurious resorts and marvelous views. Though the BYD Seal 5 DM-i is comfortable enough for long-distance drives, whether you’re a driver or a passenger, I still believe that three days of being on the road can take a toll on both your mind and body.
We took our lunch at Daloy Bistro, before we rushed back to Manila — taking a three-hour drive down to two and a half hours.
At that moment, the fifth car in our convoy almost ran out of fuel so we had to stop and wait. They were the only car to almost get down to zero for its range, and we realized that the BYD Seal 5 DM-i’s efficiency will still depend on the driver’s behaviors and usage.
And luckily, a total of eight cars in the convoy proved different in terms of driving behaviors. And we’re still the most efficient one.
Is this your GadgetMatch?
After three days, 800KM, multiple drivers, and all kinds of terrain, the BYD Seal 5 DM-i proved itself as a road-trip certified machine.
It’s not just a fuel-efficient hybrid. It’s a comfortable long-distance cruiser with the ability to handle tight turns, steep climbs, and even heavy city traffic.
If I had any doubts about hybrid sedans before, they’re long gone. The BYD Seal 5 DM-i isn’t just a car for daily drives — it’s built for adventure, efficiency, and everything in between.
Swipe right if you’re a city driver who wants hybrid efficiency without sacrificing power, who’d occasionally go on road trips packed with comfort creatures and tech-filled cockpit that make long drives cozy, on a vehicle that’s sleek and sophisticated.
Swipe left if you’re looking for a more aggressive, high-performance drive, and if you aren’t ready to hop on the hybrid/electric hype.
Because for us, we’ll be confident to say this: The BYD Seal 5 DM-i isn’t just good. 800KM later, it’s road-trip certified and deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.
It’s a super swipe because it balances performance, efficiency, and style at a price that won’t make your bank accounts and wallets cry.
The BYD Seal 5 DM-i starts at PhP 948,000 with the Dynamic model, and PhP 1,198,000 for the Premium variant.
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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