Is the GAC Empow Hybrid coming to PH?

GAC Empow Hybrid recognized by the DOE

GAC Motor Philippines distributor officially joined the electrified car market when they launched the Emkoo Hybrid. With a price tag of PHP 1.698 million, it's more affordable but equally as powerful (and efficient) against the likes of the Toyota RAV4 HEV and the Honda CR-V e:HEV. The Emkoo Hybrid is also a nice alternative to the likes of the BYD Sealion 6 and the Ford Territory Hybrid.

GAC then followed it up with a preview of the M8 PHEV, which they showed at the 2025 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). The automaker plans to launch it later this year with a price tag below PHP 4.3 million. Once launched, the M8 PHEV is set to go up against the likes of the Toyota Alphard HEV, as the LTO has already cleared the M8 PHEV for the local market.

Now, it looks like GAC Motor Philippines has its sights set on the Honda Civic RS e:HEV. This comes after the Department of Energy (DOE) recently recognized the Empow Hybrid as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV).

Based on the initial listing, the Empow Hybrid will get a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine that runs on the Atkinson cycle. Thanks to an electric motor that's powered by a lithium-ion battery pack, the Empow Hybrid has a combined system output of 238 PS and 300 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to the front wheels via an E-CVT. From a standstill, GAC says the Empow Hybrid can go from 0 – 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, which makes it faster than the turbocharged Empow (0 – 100 km/h in 6.95 seconds).

Crossovers and SUVs may be more popular nowadays with customers. But in the Philippine market, the sedan is still a regular sight on public roads. With that, could GAC Motor Philippines be simply waiting for the right time to launch the Empow Hybrid? Moreover, will the Empow Hybrid be more affordable than the PHP 1.99 million Civic RS e:HEV?