Category: Four Wheels

For decades, the formula for a true full-size 4×4 was simple: bolt a large-displacement engine to a heavy ladder-frame chassis and call it a day. But as the landscape of off-roading evolves, so does the technology required to conquer it. Enter the BAIC B60e Beaumont rEV, a massive 7-seater that proves the future of overlanding does not have to be tied to a charging station.

Today, we are looking past the imposing sheet metal to understand how this ₱3.498 Million flagship merges zero-range-anxiety exploration with the instantaneous torque of an electric vehicle.

The Range-Extender Advantage

When you are miles away from civilization, a dead battery is not an inconvenience; it is an emergency. This is where BAIC’s rEV (Range-Extended Electric Vehicle) architecture becomes a game-changer for trail runners.

Unlike a traditional Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) where both the engine and electric motors can drive the wheels, the B60e Beaumont operates strictly as an EV. The wheels are propelled entirely by a dual-motor, full-time all-wheel-drive system that pushes out a staggering 540 horsepower and 655 Nm of torque. 

Under the hood sits a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine that acts purely as an onboard generator. Its sole purpose is to feed electricity to the battery pack and motors. The result is an estimated 1,200 kilometers of total driving range on a full 85-liter tank. You get the aggressive, instant power delivery of a pure EV, without ever needing to worry about grid infrastructure when you are off the map.

Trail-Rated Hardware

A premium powertrain means nothing if the chassis cannot handle the abuse of deep ruts and rocky inclines. Fortunately, the B60e does not rely on a unibody crossover platform. It sits on a proper body-on-frame architecture that off-roaders demand.

It is equipped with the hardware required to back up its muscular stance:

• Electronic Part-Time 4WD: Featuring front and rear differential lock systems to keep you moving when traction is compromised.

• Suspension: A double-wishbone front and multi-link rear setup that balances trail articulation with highway composure.

• Clearance and Stance: 215 mm of ground clearance rolling on two-tone 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain rubber.

• Water Wading: A maximum wading depth of 800 mm, supplemented by a dedicated Water Wading Mode and an IP68-rated battery shield.

A Cabin Built for Command

Inside, the B60e Beaumont ditches utilitarian plastics for an environment that feels closer to an executive lounge—a stark contrast to its rugged exterior. The cabin is heavily appointed with camel brown leather, heated and ventilated front seats with massage functions, and a panoramic sunroof.

The technology suite is built around a “Six-Screen Command Center,” anchored by a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster that displays dynamic off-road telemetry. For tight trail maneuvers, the 540-degree surround-view camera (which includes a transparent chassis view) acts as a digital spotter, ensuring you do not scrape the underbelly on hidden obstacles. All of this is paired with a 13-speaker Infinity audio setup featuring active noise cancellation, keeping the ride dead quiet even when the terrain gets loud.

The Verdict

The BAIC B60e Beaumont rEV is a bold statement. It delivers the premium appointments and instant torque expected of a modern luxury EV, wrapped in a traditional ladder-frame chassis, and completely untethered by charging infrastructure. For the serious off-roader who wants next-generation technology without compromising on expedition-level range, the Beaumont represents a compelling new chapter in 4×4 utility.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines recently introduced the 2026 Destinator, establishing a new operational tier within its local lineup. Positioned structurally above the XForce and below the ladder-frame Montero Sport, the Destinator serves as a highly capable, seven-seater utility vehicle tailored for multi-passenger transport.

Engine and Thermal Management The Destinator marks the introduction of updated forced-induction mechanics for the brand’s mid-size passenger segment.

• The Powerplant: It is driven by the second-generation iteration of the 4B40 engine architecture.

• Induction System: The system utilizes a newly integrated water-cooled turbocharger. This thermal management design regulates operating temperatures more efficiently under load, resulting in consistent throttle response and sustained power delivery when the vehicle is at maximum payload capacity.

Chassis and Application Built to address the gap between compact crossovers and heavy-duty SUVs, the Destinator prioritizes spatial efficiency and ride stabilization.

• Passenger Capacity: The cabin features a precise three-row layout, accommodating seven passengers with modular folding options for expanded rear cargo volume.

• Clearance and Geometry: It maintains a high ground clearance suitable for uneven provincial roads and urban flooding scenarios, engineered to avoid the top-heavy handling characteristics typically associated with traditional truck-based platforms.

Market Positioning Available in three distinct variants at launch, the Mitsubishi Destinator carries an introductory baseline price of ₱1,289,000. It offers a calculated, mechanical solution for operators requiring high passenger volume and turbocharged performance within a crossover footprint.

The 2026 GAC Emzoom officially entered the Philippine automotive market in late April 2026. Dropping the previous GS3 designation, this updated subcompact crossover focuses on mechanical refinement and upgraded cabin telemetry. Here is an objective look at the specifications of the latest iteration.

Powertrain and Transmission Propulsion is handled by a third-generation 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injection (TGDI) four-cylinder engine.

• Performance Metrics: The unit produces 174 horsepower and a peak torque of 270 Nm.

• Drivetrain: Power is transferred to the front wheels via a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (7WDCT). This powertrain configuration yields a recorded 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.5 seconds.

Variant Distinctions and Exterior Design The vehicle is distributed in two primary trims: the standard GB and the top-tier R-Style.

• GB Variant: Features the standard “Star Diamond” front grille assembly.

• R-Style Variant: Integrates a Black Edition package featuring a “Flying Wing” grille design, blacked-out badging, electric hidden door handles, auto-folding side mirrors, and an automatic power tailgate.

Telemetry and Safety Systems The interior architecture centers on functional digital displays and automated driver assistance.

• Central Interface: Both trims utilize a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment display supporting direct Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

• Driver Aids: The R-Style is equipped with a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) suite. This incorporates Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Keep Assist.

• Market Integration: The Emzoom launches with a competitive pricing structure, starting at ₱1,059,900 for the GB and ₱1,159,900 for the R-Style.

The New Kid on the Dirt: Unpacking the 212 T01 Off-Roader

The 2026 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) didn’t just bring new models to the Philippines; it introduced an entirely new brand. Dedicated strictly to 4x4s and serious trail machines, 212 Motor Philippines has made its entrance with a single, highly capable model: the 212 T01.

Tracing its lineage back to China’s legendary BAW BJ212 off-roader from the 1960s, this modern iteration abandons the crossover trend entirely. It is a boxy, body-on-frame utility vehicle designed specifically to conquer deep water and technical terrain. Here is a look at the hardware that makes the T01 a genuine fortress for both urban floods and weekend overland routes.

The Hardware and Geometry

The T01 is built from the ground up as a dedicated 4×4, prioritizing mechanical grip and articulation over aerodynamic highway efficiency.

• Chassis and Suspension: Underneath the retro-boxy shell lies a heavy-duty body-on-frame platform. It utilizes a 5-link solid axle suspension system, allowing for maximum wheel articulation when navigating deep ruts or rocky inclines.

• Clearance and Wading: Built for the realities of the Philippine climate, the T01 boasts a commanding 235 mm of ground clearance. More impressively, it features a massive 850 mm water-wading depth directly from the factory, making it exceptionally capable during monsoon season.

Powertrain and Drivetrain

While many new entries at MIAS 2026 pushed hybrid and electric platforms, the 212 T01 sticks to the relentless reliability and low-end grunt of a traditional diesel engine.

• The Engine: Power is generated by an AUCAN 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine.

• The Output: It produces a steady 168 horsepower and a very healthy 415 Nm of torque. This torque figure is exactly what you want when crawling over obstacles or pulling the heavy frame out of thick mud.

• Transmission: The engine is mated to a highly reputable ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth gear transitions whether cruising on the highway or locked in low-range off-road conditions.

4×4 Capability and Cabin Tech

Despite its rugged, old-school exterior design, the mechanical and digital systems managing the traction are thoroughly modern.

• Traction Control: Power is routed through a selectable four-wheel-drive (4WD) system. To ensure it doesn’t get stuck when the trail gets severe, it comes equipped with both front and rear differential locks, along with dedicated, terrain-specific off-road driving modes.

• The Interior: Opening the doors reveals a cabin that contrasts sharply with the utilitarian exterior. It features plush leather upholstery and modern digital interfaces, including a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster for the driver and a 12.3-inch central infotainment screen. Crucially for trail driving, it integrates a 360-degree camera system to help spot hidden obstacles on tight tracks without needing to step out of the vehicle.

The Verdict

The 212 T01 is a refreshing counter-punch to the increasingly soft, crossover-dominated SUV market. It doesn’t pretend to be a sporty city car. It is an unapologetically rugged, diesel-powered 4×4 built for those who require genuine off-road capability and high water-wading limits, wrapped in a classic aesthetic.

The Electrified Utility: A Technical Breakdown of the BYD Shark 6 DMO

The pickup truck segment in the Philippines is highly competitive, traditionally dominated by diesel-powered utility vehicles. However, BYD has introduced a significant shift in this category with the release of the BYD Shark 6 DMO.

Recently showcased at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) 2026 and fresh off setting a Guinness World Record for the most cities visited in a continuous journey by a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) across the Philippines, the Shark 6 DMO is a highly relevant vehicle for the local market. Here is a direct look at the technical specifications and engineering behind BYD’s electrified pickup.

Powertrain and DMO Architecture

The Shark 6 operates on BYD’s Dual Mode Off-Road (DMO) Super Hybrid platform. This is a PHEV system designed specifically for heavy utility and off-road applications.

• Engine and Motors: The system utilizes a longitudinally mounted 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with dual electric motors (one on the front axle and one on the rear).

• Power Output: The combined output of the internal combustion engine and electric motors generates over 430 horsepower. This configuration allows the heavy utility vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under 6 seconds.

• Battery and Range: It is equipped with BYD’s ultra-safe Blade Battery, integrated directly into a high-strength steel frame (Cell-to-Chassis technology). The battery provides an electric-only range suitable for daily city commuting, while the combined hybrid system extends the total operational range, eliminating range anxiety during long provincial transit.

• Drive Modes: The system features intelligent torque distribution, seamlessly switching between EV mode and Hybrid mode depending on the load, speed, and terrain resistance.

Chassis and Suspension Engineering

To handle high payload capacities and technical off-road conditions, the Shark 6 utilizes a specialized suspension architecture rather than standard leaf springs.

• Suspension Layout: It features a fully independent double-wishbone suspension system for both the front and the rear. This design maximizes tire contact on uneven terrain and significantly reduces cabin vibration compared to traditional solid rear axle setups.

• Traction Control: The DMO platform relies on electric motor torque vectoring rather than a traditional mechanical transfer case. The front and rear motors independently adjust power output in milliseconds, providing instant traction to the wheels with the most grip during low-traction ascents or mud driving.

Cabin Telemetry and Utilitarian Features

The interior is designed to balance driver comfort with functional utility, utilizing digital interfaces to monitor the complex hybrid system.

• Digital Interfaces: The dashboard features a large rotating central infotainment screen that controls vehicle diagnostics, energy flow monitoring, and multimedia integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). A dedicated digital instrument cluster provides real-time data on battery state-of-charge, engine RPM, and terrain modes.

• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): One of the most critical utility features is the V2L capability. The Shark 6 can output 220V AC power directly from its battery to external outlets located in the truck bed. This allows operators to power power tools, heavy lighting equipment, or campsite appliances in remote areas without needing a standalone generator.

Market Positioning

Priced dynamically between ₱2.098 Million and ₱2.298 Million, the BYD Shark 6 DMO introduces a highly technical, alternative powertrain to the Philippine pickup market. By combining the heavy payload capabilities of a traditional truck with the high torque and efficiency of a PHEV platform, it provides a functional solution for both urban driving and off-grid utility.