Automotive

How the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV made me look like a reliable driver

The speed maniac in me finally slowed down

Published

October 23, 2023

MJ Jucutan

If you’ve been my passenger, you’ve probably stayed on high alert or got impatient. I barely find the sweet spot; the balance between slow and fast.

I’ve always been dubbed a speedster and an overtaker. Perhaps, being young, wild, and free made me look like I was driving a getaway car most of the time.

Even on the busiest city roads, I’m one to throw a fit inside a car whenever motorists abruptly cut me off or exhibit a blatant disrespect for road rules.

However, having the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV allowed me to change my and other people’s perceptions of me.

Suit up so you’d look like a reliable guy

The Corolla Cross HEV didn’t give a tough impression. Its facade looks more like a trustworthy vehicle that you can rely on. Think: Meeting a person with green flags. It didn’t make my heart race but gave me a soothing feel. Yes, this feels nice.

When you’re accustomed to red flags, you’re unsure how to approach someone or something that looks calm and collected.

The same goes when I saw and drove the Corolla Cross HEV. It was the first hybrid crossover in Toyota’s lineup in the Philippine market and has a reputation that we all know of.

Just one look and you know it’s a killer. The double trapezoid front grille exudes a wide appearance, like a man’s broad shoulders that you’d want to cry on.

Its side and back profile emanate a sophisticated air. Having the Corolla Cross HEV meant needing to step up my game. I thought to myself, “I need to look sleek, reliable, and worthy of driving this hybrid vehicle.”

So, yes, we did play dress-up while driving between the business districts of Metro Manila.

Everything within reach

On days when we don’t have a choice but to brave a horrible traffic jam, having creature comforts inside your vehicle would be a great relief.

Luckily, the Corolla Cross HEV comes with cozy features for both the driver and its passengers. On the driver’s seat, it was easy to tailor my seat to my preference through its 8-way power adjust driver’s seat.

Most features and controls are also accessible with just a single press. For instance, Smart Entry, Push Start System, Power Adjust for side mirrors and power windows, Speed-sensing Door Locks, and even Rain-sensing Windshield Wipers.

The steering wheel also has quick controls that adjust Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) features. For instance, when reversing, you can watch what’s on your rear through the camera installed, which is previewed through the 7-inch multi-information display.

Other than that, you also get to connect your smartphone to navigate Maps or play your favorite tunes. It’s compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so pick your poison.

If you struggle with Bluetooth connectivity, there’s a USB-A port that allows you to connect your smartphone to the vehicle. It will simultaneously charge and connect the device to the multi-information display.

Sadly, I’ve been using USB-C to USB-C cables or Lightning-to-USB-C for most of my devices. I just used my power bank to recharge my device and rely on Bluetooth connectivity so I can play the whole folklore album while driving in the rain.

What do the passengers say?

With my all-black get-up inspired by Taylor Swift’s reputation era, I looked like a high-end chauffeur. I picked up and drove my friends Rodneil, Vikka, and Nicole when we attended an event at Blackbird at the Nielson Tower.

It’s an elegant, art deco restaurant serving grilled meat, seafood, pasta, and curries.

Playing dress up paid off since our outfits matched the sophisticated vibe of the hybrid vehicle. Moreover, they had a good time as my passenger.

The cabin is wide and spacious and there’s ample legroom for the backseat — my friends found it cozy to sit and share their stories. Funny enough, they all know I’m a bad driver with a penchant for being a little bit reckless and aggressive. Still, they found the whole ride to be quiet and comfortable.

They can feel how the electric motors make no to little noise while running, and how powerful the vehicle is to have a smooth acceleration even when I step on the pedals hard.

With an optimized front and rear suspension, my passengers didn’t find themselves rolling inside whenever I sped up and drove in curves.

While I have yet to prove that I’m a driver who prioritizes safety and security, the Corolla Cross HEV showed me that it has my back.

Peace of mind when going out for a drive…

Every trip with the Corolla Cross HEV gave me control of how my adventure should look like. I had the option to choose between three available driving modes: Eco, Power, and EV. Of course, I chose EV.

We’re here to consume less fuel so that there are fewer CO2 emissions. I already contribute enough CO2 emissions when flying, so let’s try to lessen it when driving. We’re not going to follow in the footsteps of our mother dearest Taylor Swift, also the patron saint of carbon emissions.

The blue Toyota logo indicates a hybrid vehicle.

I like how a hybrid vehicle doesn’t fully rely on charging stations to power it up. Every step on the brake recharges the vehicle.

Through the information display, you’ll be able to see if the vehicle switches between battery and gas. Having that hybrid system allowed it to be fuel-efficient.

In three consecutive days of driving back and forth from East to South and back, I didn’t have to worry about running out of fuel.

And more peace of mind

The Toyota Corolla Cross HEV is equipped with 7 SRS airbags, an anti-lock brake system (which is incredibly helpful for a forgetful person like yours truly), two front and four rear clearance sonars, a reverse camera, and more safety features across all variants.

I also got a glimpse of its active safety features which fall under Toyota Safety Sense (TSS). The Pre-Collision System (PCS) was always in play as I entered Gil Puyat Avenue in Makati since a lot of motorcycle riders cut me off just when I stepped on the gas pedal.

The Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) were also helpful when I was driving on highways since I’m still struggling with navigating major thoroughfares in Metro Manila. It helps me stay on my lane when needed and assists me in changing my lanes gracefully whenever I need to exit.

The Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RTA), though helpful, can get a bit annoying when driving in bumper-to-bumper traffic. Its system detects vehicles approaching from the rear and continuously alerts me through visual and audio signals.

I had to put it on mute every time it alerted me, especially when I knew I was in the middle of a traffic jam. Nevertheless, I welcome the advanced safety features. It’s added security for both new and seasoned drivers — something you’d appreciate if you come across certain incidents on the road that could be prevented.

Made to make you look reliable

The way we present ourselves gives an impression of what kind of person we are. Driving the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV, with its reliable and trustworthy look, made me look like a reliable driver for once.

Even my passengers felt how the hybrid vehicle tamed me down from doing a wild ride. I honestly would prefer to be a bit more daring, but it feels nice to give peace of mind to the people you love.

The Toyota Corolla Cross HEV makes for a great daily driver, especially when braving Manila traffic. It’s got everything you’d expect that would suit you and your personality. An elegant interior, a sophisticated exterior, an exceptional riding experience, and an environment-friendly and fuel-efficient technology that would make for a quiet, comfortable drive.

For more information about the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV, visit its page and follow Toyota PH.

Automotive

VinFast debuts two-wheeler models, opens 21 e-motorcycle showrooms

Evo, Feliz II, Viper officially launched

Published

August 3, 2026

GadgetMatch

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

Published

August 1, 2026

GadgetMatch

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

Published

August 1, 2026

GadgetMatch

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.