Automotive

The Ford Ranger XLS and XLT are perfect for business owners

Capable, reliable, and tough

Published

December 6, 2019

When you’re on the market looking to buy a new vehicle, going for the top-of-the-line variant benefits you with the latest features, a more powerful engine, and probably added accessories on its body.

The thing is, one doesn’t always need the best model. Sometimes, you just need something that’s capable, reliable, and tough. This is where Ford’s more affordable Ranger models come into play. The Ranger XLS and XLT variants are characterized by a utility-inspired design with features and capabilities reflecting its hard-working personality.

We took them on a road trip outside the metro to experience how they would fare when used as a utilitarian vehicle for a business owner’s needs.

Here’s a glance on what it offers:

Powertrain – The Ranger XLS and XLT variants are powered by Ford’s 2.2-liter TDCI engine. Coupled with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, it delivers 160PS and 385Nm of torque to suit performance demands.
Water-wading – Since it targets customers with workhorse and utility needs, the Ranger XLT and XLS variants boast an 800mm water-wading capabilities.
Towing and payload – The Ranger XLS 4×2 variant has a towing capacity of 2,500 kilograms, while the XLS 4×4 manual variant ups the ante to 3,500 kilograms. All variants of the Ranger XLT 4×2 have a towing capacity of 2,500 kilograms. Meanwhile, all Ranger XLS and XLT variants have a 1,200-kilogram payload capacity.
Features – Both models are equipped with Ford’s Driver Assist Technologies that ensure a safe and comfortable drive whether on- and off-road. These include an adjustable speed limiter, ABS with EBD, childproof door locks, cruise control, front driver and passenger airbags, and front seatbelt pre-tensioners.

Putting the Ranger XLS and XLT to the test

Our first stop was at a hardware store for construction materials. We loaded one Ranger with almost one ton of dry cement and delivered it to a nearby site. The Ranger performed the task easily and without any hiccups, as expected.

Additionally, while at the site, an architect shared a short testimonial of how her very own Ford Ranger not only helped her transport materials in and out of the city, but it was also able to reliably haul her workers around when needed.

After a short break, we hopped back in the Ranger and drove off to our next destination. This time it was in a milling plant and we loaded the truck with a combination of rice and corn totaling to 800kgs.

I personally drove the loaded Ranger and was surprised at how well it handled the task. I knew it could take on all that load but I was expecting its engine to struggle a bit. But in reality, it was like I wasn’t lugging around almost 1,000kg of payload.

We brought the sacks of corn and rice to a nearby farm and its owner gave another short talk enumerating how the Ford Ranger contributed to the success of his family business. From all its features, what stands out to the successful business owner is the 800mm water-wading capabilities of the truck. Because of it, he’s never afraid of taking on floods which is common in some areas that he’s in.

The Ranger XLS 4×2 offers a towing capacity of 2,500 kgs

While we were here, Ford wanted to show off more of what the Ranger can do. Next thing we know, the XLS variant was towing a tractor which was quite impressive to see in person.

Built Ford Tough

This activity further established the company’s promise that its vehicles are built tough. Though these were not the top of the line models, they proved to be as capable as their more expensive siblings and a reliable daily workhorse. Plus, with the base model priced below PhP 1 million, it’s a perfect choice for business owners who want to try out the advantages of owning a pickup truck.

Pricing for the Ranger 2.2L XLS 4×2 MT is at PhP943,000, while the Ranger 2.2L XLT 4×2 AT and MT variants now come with a cash discount of PhP 125,000.

Ford is currently offering this exclusive deal until December 31, 2019. For more information on the promo, you may visit Ford’s website.

Related Topics:Ford Ranger Ranger XLS Ranger XLT

Automotive

Kia unveils the EV5

A more formal launch is scheduled early next year.

Published

October 24, 2025

Luigi Leonardo

Earlier this year, we named the Kia EV9 as one of the most luxurious vehicles we’ve tried so far. Besides the raw power inside, the car’s interior was a spectacle for the tech-savvy. Today, Kia Philippines is expanding its now-iconic lineup with a smaller version of its behemoth. Presenting: the Kia EV5.

At the 13^th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit, Kia Philippines unleashed the EV5. Compared to the gigantic capabilities of the EV9, the EV5 is a five-seater SUV that leverages all the technological capabilities of its all-electric motor.

Under the hood, the car can put out a capable 217 horsepower and 310 Nm of torque. Impressively, the 88.1kWh battery can reportedly last up to 550 kilometers on a single charge.

As expected, the Kia EV5 will feature the brand’s impressive array of tech-filled capabilities. This includes Kia’s ADAS features called DriveWise. It also has, we can assume, a lot of convenience features that straddle the edge of luxury.

Now, we say “assume” because the car hasn’t technically launched yet. Kia Philippines has confirmed that a more formal launch will happen in the first quarter of 2026. This launch will reveal the final price and available features coming to the Philippines.

In the meantime, interested buyers can get a first look at the Kia EV5 during the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit happening until October 25.

Automotive

BYD eMAX 9 DM-i leads the future of luxury family travel

Sophistication and smart performance in a seven-seater MPV

Published

October 23, 2025

MJ Jucutan

The BYD eMAX 9 DM-i is a mid-size MPV built to move modern families toward an electrified future.

Unveiled at the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit, the new flagship MPV from BYD seats seven and runs on the brand’s Super DM-i hybrid system.

The BYD eMax 9 DM-i brings together power and efficiency in one refined form.

Luxury that travels with you

From the outside, the eMAX 9 DM-i stands tall and confident.

It wears BYD’s Dragon Face design with bold lines, signature LED lights, and 18-inch alloy wheels that give every drive a commanding presence.

Inside, the cabin feels like a private retreat. Hands-free side doors and a powered tailgate make entry effortless, while a built-in refrigerator keeps drinks cool for long drives.

Both the Premium and Advanced variants feature a Tri-Zone Cooling System that allows each passenger to set their preferred temperature.

The Premium model adds massage and ventilation to the captain’s chairs. Plus, plush leather seats and a 15.6-inch infotainment display complete the experience.

Power and efficiency

At its core, the eMAX 9 DM-i runs on BYD’s Super DM-i technology, which combines a high-power electric motor with a 1.5-liter turbocharged generator.

Together, they produce 271 PS and 315 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.5 seconds.

The Premium variant comes with a 36.6 kWh battery that delivers up to 170 kilometers of pure-electric driving. Meanwhile, the Advanced model provides 95 kilometers.

With both electric and fuel power combined, the eMAX 9 can travel up to 1,000 kilometers on a single charge and a full tank.

Charging is simple and flexible. AC charging takes around 3 to 5 hours depending on the variant. Meanwhile, DC fast charging brings the battery from 30% to 80% in under 20 minutes.

The eMAX 9 can also share its power through Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, which allows users to plug in small appliances or camping equipment directly into the vehicle.

Safety that gives confidence

The eMAX 9 DM-i is designed to protect every passenger.

The Premium variant features BYD’s DiSus-C suspension system, which automatically adjusts to different road conditions for a smoother and more stable ride.

Its DiPilot driver assistance suite includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist.

Eight airbags, a 360-degree camera, and rear cross-traffic alerts provide added peace of mind for every trip.

Price, availability

With prices starting at PhP 2,678,000 for the Advanced variant and PhP 2,998,000 for the Premium, the BYD eMAX 9 DM-i is a refined statement of sustainable luxury. It is available in Cosmos Black, Deep Sea Blue, and Aurora White.

Every purchase is backed by BYD’s comprehensive warranty: eight years or 160,000 kilometers for the Blade Battery and drive unit, and six years or 150,000 kilometers for the vehicle itself.

Automotive

HONOR, BYD team up for AI-powered smart mobility

HONOR connectivity tech plus BYD’s DiLink ecosystem

Published

October 23, 2025

GadgetMatch

HONOR has announced a strategic partnership with new-energy vehicle manufacturer BYD. The collaboration merges HONOR’s smart connectivity solutions with BYD’s next-generation DiLink system. This aims to create intelligent, AI-powered mobility experiences for everyday drivers.

The agreement was formalized in Shenzhen, witnessed by HONOR CEO James Li and BYD Chairman and President Wang Chuanfu.

A new phase in intelligent mobility

This partnership expands on years of cooperation between the two tech leaders. Their collaboration will now move across three key fronts:

Core technology and features: Joint innovation in cross-device ecosystem integration, AI agent functions, and high-precision Bluetooth-based digital keys.
Channel ecosystem and user benefits: A shared model that connects HONOR’s vehicle tech with BYD’s ecosystem for smoother cross-platform experiences.
Joint communication and engagement: Coordinated marketing efforts and shared launch milestones to engage users more directly.

Building on a strong foundation

HONOR and BYD’s partnership began in 2023 with smartphone NFC car keys. This allowed BYD drivers to unlock vehicles using HONOR devices. In 2024, they expanded to in-car fast charging. This year, Denza became the first brand to integrate HONOR Car Connect, paving the way for other BYD models to adopt the system for seamless phone-to-car connectivity.

Driving the AI era

Both companies aim to push the boundaries of AI-driven mobility, with upcoming projects centered on digital keys, deeper phone-to-car integration, and smarter safety features.

The collaboration will also take center stage at the 2025 HONOR Global Developers Conference and AI Device Ecosystem Conference on October 23, where HONOR will showcase the HONOR AI Connect platform and its role in building human-centric, scenario-based AI solutions.