Features – Two and Four

Unplugged but Fully Charged: Why the BAIC B60e Beaumont rEV Changes the Overlanding Equation

June 9, 2026

by Zach

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.

Electrified and Adventure-Ready: Toyota Previews Land Cruiser FJ & Hilux BEV Ahead of PIMS 2026

June 5, 2026

by Zach

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The 10th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) is gearing up to be a landmark event for local automotive enthusiasts, with an increasing focus on sustainable mobility and off-road capability. Taking center stage from June 4 to 7, 2026, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is set to wow crowds with a trio of highly anticipated models: the all-new Land Cruiser FJ, the Hilux BEV, and the Land Cruiser 300 HEV.

This year, Toyota’s showcase perfectly balances its legendary 4×4 heritage with its commitment to an electrified future. Here is a closer look at the two models stealing the spotlight.

The All-New Land Cruiser FJ: “Freedom & Joy”

For fans of the iconic Land Cruiser nameplate who want something more accessible and city-friendly without sacrificing trail readiness, the new Land Cruiser FJ is the answer.

Standing for “Freedom & Joy,” the LC FJ packages Toyota’s proven off-road pedigree into a more compact footprint. Instead of an electrified powertrain, the FJ sticks to its rugged roots with a traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE).

While it may be smaller than its LC300 sibling, it is built for serious utility. The FJ comes equipped with standard off-road hardware including a Differential Lock, an Auto Limited Slip Differential, and a 2nd Start Mode. It also features a Panoramic View Monitor to help drivers navigate tight urban streets and rocky trails with equal confidence.

The Hilux BEV: An Electric Workhorse

Toyota is also bringing battery-electric power to one of its best-selling and most durable vehicles: the Hilux. Marking the local debut of an electric 4×4 pickup, the Hilux BEV represents a massive step toward sustainable utility.

Guided by Toyota’s “Tough and Agile” design philosophy, the Hilux BEV sports a much more dynamic and sophisticated front fascia, which the brand calls a “Cyber-Sumo” aesthetic.

Underneath the futuristic exterior, it retains the “invincible spirit” of durability and performance that the Hilux is famous for. The BEV variant features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) system pumping out 193 horsepower, powered by a 59.2 kWh battery capable of an estimated 240 kilometers of range. Interestingly, Toyota is also updating the diesel variants of the Hilux to adopt this bold new design language.

A Hybrid Flagship: The Land Cruiser 300 HEV

Rounding out Toyota’s PIMS 2026 lineup is the Land Cruiser 300 HEV. Toyota’s flagship SUV finally receives a practical hybrid system mated to its 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. This hybrid variant also introduces electronic power steering for a smoother driving experience and features an exclusive Aero body kit with Jet Black Garnish to distinguish it from the purely ICE models.

Catch Them in the Metal

Attendees can view all three vehicles at the Toyota Choice Booth during the 10th PIMS. If you are already sold, Toyota has confirmed that reservations for the Land Cruiser FJ and the Hilux BEV are available online, while the LC300 HEV can be reserved through authorized Toyota dealerships nationwide.

Clear Your Schedules: Legendary Drift King Max Orido is Heading to Manila!

June 3, 2026

by Zach

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From the Touge to the Circuit: The Unstoppable Evolution of Manabu “Max” Orido

Mark your calendars, Manila. Clear your schedules and get your gear ready, because the legend is landing. On June 17, 2026, Manabu “Max” Orido is pulling up to the Auto Complex, and we at Two and Four are practically vibrating with excitement.

For the local JDM community, this isn’t just another celebrity driver appearance—this is a pilgrimage. Max Orido is automotive royalty. We are talking about the grassroots prodigy who conquered both the underground midnight runs and the absolute pinnacle of professional motorsport.

Forged on the Mountain

There are racing drivers who are forged in the sterile, high-budget environments of karting academies and factory simulators, and then there is Orido. He didn’t start with telemetry data or millionaire sponsors. He cut his teeth in the dead of night on the unforgiving mountain passes—the touge—of Chiba, Japan. Back in an era where street racing was about pure survival and earning respect the hard way, Orido learned vehicle dynamics by pitching cars completely sideways toward concrete barriers. He developed a preternatural sense of balance and car control that didn’t just earn him street cred; it made him a global household name.

His defining breakthrough arrived in 1990. Entering a drift contest organized by CARBOY magazine and sponsored by the Bandoh Chain of Commerce, Orido took the grand championship. That victory wasn’t just a shiny trophy for the shelf; it was his golden ticket out of the underground and straight into the professional paddock.

Conquering the Grip World

While many drift kings stay comfortably within the realm of oversteer, Orido proved his raw, untamed talent translated flawlessly to grip racing. He debuted in the Japanese Grand Touring Championship (JGTC) and immediately silenced any purists who viewed him as “just a street racer.”

In 1997, driving a Nissan Silvia for Racing Project Bandoh, he captured his first GT300 class championship. To prove it was absolutely no fluke, he secured a second GT300 title in 2009, this time piloting a Lexus IS350. His relentless adaptability even took him to the ultimate endurance stage in 2004, where he made his 24 Hours of Le Mans debut in a Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, securing an incredible second-place finish in the GT class.

The Architect of Modern Drifting

Despite all the grip racing glory, the man never abandoned his roots. When the D1 Grand Prix was inaugurated in 2000, formalizing drifting into a legitimate professional motorsport, Orido was right there sitting alongside Keiichi Tsuchiya as a founding judge. He helped shape the rules, the culture, and the sky-high standards of modern drifting we obsess over today.

But sitting behind a judging desk wasn’t enough for a driver with gasoline in his veins. In 2005, he famously stepped down to get back behind the wheel as a competitor, eventually campaigning a raucous, ear-splitting V8-powered Toyota 86 that became an absolute crowd favorite and solidified his reputation as the ultimate showman.

The Legacy Continues

Today, Orido is so much more than a driver; he is a global ambassador for Japanese car culture. Through his legendary shop, MAX ORIDO Racing in Yokohama, and his investments in high-end sim racing facilities, he is still out there pushing the boundaries of automotive performance and driver training.

His visit to the Auto Complex this June isn’t just a celebrity appearance—it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for Filipino enthusiasts to connect with a living legend. He is the ultimate proof that with enough raw talent, pure passion, and relentless tenacity, the streets can lead straight to the podium.

We at Two and Four will be right there in the crowd, screaming just as loud as the rest of you. See you at the Auto Complex!

The Hyper-Naked Standard: Analyzing the 2026 Yamaha MT-09

May 12, 2026

by Zach

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The Philippine heavyweight naked bike segment demands a balance between aggressive urban agility and sustained highway power. For years, Yamaha’s “Master of Torque” lineage has dominated this category. The newly updated 2026 Yamaha MT-09 continues to push the boundaries of the hyper-naked class, bringing a refined chassis, advanced telemetry, and a relentless powertrain to the local streets.

Here is a technical analysis of the hardware that makes the MT-09 a definitive streetfighter.

Powertrain and the CP3 Architecture

The defining characteristic of the MT-09 is its powerplant. Yamaha continues to rely on its highly acclaimed CP3 (Crossplane 3) engine architecture.

Engine Specifications: It is powered by an 890cc liquid-cooled, inline three-cylinder engine.
Performance Output: The unit generates an aggressive 117 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and a peak torque of 93 Nm at 7,000 rpm. The CP3 design provides a unique firing order that delivers the low-end punch of a twin-cylinder while maintaining the high-revving top-end rush of an inline-four.
Drivetrain: Power is managed by a 6-speed manual transmission integrated with an Assist and Slipper clutch. This reduces clutch lever effort by 20% and prevents rear-wheel lockup during aggressive deceleration and rapid downshifts.

Chassis Geometry and Suspension

To manage the violent torque delivery of the CP3 engine, the MT-09 utilizes a highly rigid, sport-oriented structural layout.

The Frame: It relies on a lightweight, cast-aluminum diamond frame. This construction keeps the kerb weight down to an exceptional 189 kg, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio that makes the bike highly flickable in tight urban corners.
Damping Systems: The front end is planted via fully adjustable 43mm inverted telescopic forks. The rear utilizes a linkage-type mono-shock with adjustable rebound and preload, allowing the rider to dial in the suspension geometry for either track-day rigidity or compliant street touring.
Braking: Stopping power is provided by dual front disc brakes with radial-mounted calipers and a single rear disc, governed by a highly advanced cornering ABS system.

Telemetry and Rider Aids

The 2026 model integrates a comprehensive suite of electronic driver aids derived directly from Yamaha’s YZF-R1 superbike platform.

The IMU: At the core of the electronics is a 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). This system constantly monitors the pitch, roll, and yaw of the motorcycle.
Traction and Control: The IMU feeds data to a highly adjustable three-way Traction Control System (TCS), Slide Control System (SCS), and front-wheel Lift Control System (LIF). These systems work in tandem to keep the 180/55 rear tire planted under heavy acceleration, even at extreme lean angles.
Instrumentation: All telemetry is monitored through a sharp, full-color TFT display, allowing the operator to toggle seamlessly between multiple riding modes (including a dedicated Sport mode) to adjust the engine mapping and throttle response on the fly.

Market Positioning

With an official retail price of ₱799,000, the 2026 Yamaha MT-09 remains a premium but highly competitive option in the hyper-naked segment. It offers a calculated, mechanical solution for riders requiring superbike-level electronics and relentless mid-range torque within an upright, urban-friendly ergonomic package.

Urban Geometry: A Technical Look at the 2026 Kawasaki Eliminator 500

May 12, 2026

by Zach

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The middleweight cruiser category has seen a massive resurgence, pivoting away from heavy, chrome-laden V-twins toward agile, performance-oriented parallel-twins. Kawasaki has aggressively re-entered this space with the 2026 Eliminator 500, dropping the classic namesake onto a thoroughly modern architecture. Here is an objective breakdown of the platform’s mechanical and ergonomic systems.

Powertrain and Delivery Instead of developing a new, low-revving cruiser engine from scratch, Kawasaki utilized a proven high-performance platform.

The Engine: The Eliminator is powered by a 451cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC parallel-twin engine, a displacement bump directly derived from their Ninja sportbike lineage but retuned specifically for urban tractability.
Performance Output: It delivers a healthy 52 horsepower and 42.6 Nm of torque. The engine tuning heavily emphasizes low-end and mid-range torque, providing immediate, predictable roll-on power for highway overtaking without needing to wring out the throttle.
Transmission: Power is managed by a 6-speed manual transmission equipped with an Assist and Slipper clutch. This significantly lightens the clutch lever pull during heavy stop-and-go traffic and prevents rear-wheel hop during rapid downshifting.

Chassis Architecture and Ergonomics The Eliminator departs from traditional heavy cruiser frames, utilizing sport-oriented construction to minimize mass.

The Frame: It relies on a high-tensile steel trellis frame, a design choice that keeps the kerb weight down to an exceptionally light 176 kg. This results in a power-to-weight ratio that makes the bike highly responsive during tight urban maneuvers.
Suspension Geometry: The front end utilizes 41mm telescopic forks, while the rear features a classic twin-shock setup optimized for straight-line stability and passenger comfort.
Rider Positioning: True to the cruiser ethos, it features a highly accessible 735mm seat height. Paired with mid-mounted footpegs rather than extreme forward controls, it creates a natural, upright riding triangle that reduces lower back fatigue on longer transit routes.

Telemetry and the SE Package The cockpit strips away analog bulk in favor of streamlined, digital instrumentation.

Instrumentation: Vehicle data is centralized in a single, compact circular LCD digital display. It provides clear readouts for the tachometer, gear position indicator, and fuel gauge, integrating seamless smartphone connectivity via Kawasaki’s Rideology application.
The SE Variant: For operators seeking expanded utility, the Eliminator SE variant comes factory-equipped with functional upgrades. This includes a compact headlight cowl for high-speed wind deflection, rubber fork boots for stanchion protection against trail debris, and an integrated, waterproof USB-C outlet mounted on the handlebars to power navigation devices.

Market Positioning Priced at ₱366,000 for the standard model and ₱386,400 for the SE variant, the 2026 Kawasaki Eliminator 500 offers a highly accessible but mechanically robust entry into the cruiser segment. By combining the aggressive styling of a low-slung street bike with the high-revving DNA of a sport bike engine, it delivers a modern, agile solution for the everyday rider.

Mechanical Evaluation: The CFMOTO 450MT

May 4, 2026

by Zach

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The middleweight adventure segment in the Philippines requires vehicles capable of sustained highway transit and immediate transition to unpaved, technical terrain. The CFMOTO 450MT is engineered precisely for this dual-purpose application. Rather than a modified street platform, the 450MT utilizes a purpose-built chassis and powertrain designed for the rigors of off-road environments. Here is an objective analysis of the hardware.

Powertrain and Delivery

The 450MT operates on a dedicated 449cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine architecture.

Crankshaft and Firing Order: It features a 270-degree crankshaft. This firing order provides linear torque delivery at lower RPMs, which is critical for maintaining traction during low-speed ascents on loose surfaces.
Output Specifications: The engine generates 44 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 44 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. The tuning heavily prioritizes mid-range torque over peak top speed, managed by a Bosch Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system.
Transmission: Power is routed through a 6-speed gearbox integrated with a CF-SC slipper clutch to prevent rear-wheel lockup during aggressive deceleration.

Suspension and Chassis Geometry

To withstand severe impacts on off-grid trails, the 450MT utilizes premium suspension components and structural reinforcements.

Damping Systems: The front end is equipped with 41mm KYB inverted telescopic forks featuring adjustable compression damping. The rear utilizes a multi-link KYB shock with adjustable preload and rebound. Both front and rear systems provide 200mm of total travel.
Ground Clearance: The chrome-molybdenum trellis frame is designed to keep mass centralized while providing a high 220mm ground clearance.
Wheel Configuration: True to off-road standards, it rides on a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoked wheel setup, providing the optimal circumference to roll over large trail obstacles and deep ruts effectively.

Telemetry and Rider Systems

The vehicle integrates digital monitoring systems to aid the operator without overwhelming the dashboard.

Instrumentation: The cockpit features a 5-inch curved TFT display providing real-time data on engine temperature, range, and system diagnostics.
Braking and Traction: Stopping power is provided by a 320mm front disc with a four-piston J.Juan caliper. It utilizes a Bosch dual-channel ABS and Traction Control System (TCS). Critically for trail use, the rear ABS can be manually disabled directly from the switchgear, allowing the operator to lock the rear wheel for controlled slides during off-road maneuvering.

With a retail price starting at ₱328,900, the CFMOTO 450MT delivers a calculated, mechanical solution for operators requiring genuine off-road capability without the excess weight of a heavyweight adventure platform.

Sharpening the King: The Suzuki Raider R150 Blade Edition

May 4, 2026

by Zach

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The underbone category is an undeniable pillar of Philippine motorcycle culture, and the Suzuki Raider R150 has long been recognized as the undisputed king of that segment. For 2026, Suzuki has elevated the platform with the release of the Raider R150 Blade Edition, focusing on aggressive aerodynamic refinement and track-inspired aesthetics.

The DOHC Powerplant
Suzuki wisely retained the legendary engine architecture that earned the Raider its reputation on both the streets and the drag strip.

Engine Specs: The Blade Edition is powered by the proven 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, 150cc DOHC, fuel-injected engine.
Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP): The integration of SEP technology ensures that the high-revving nature of the dual overhead cam setup does not excessively compromise daily fuel efficiency.
Slipper Clutch Assist System (SCAS): A critical upgrade for aggressive riding, the SCAS prevents rear-wheel lockup and hopping during rapid downshifts when diving into tight corners.

Aerodynamics and Styling
The “Blade” designation is reflected directly in the updated exterior geometry.

Muscular Contours: The fairings have been redesigned with sharper, more dynamic lines that cut through the air efficiently while giving the underbone a distinctly muscular, race-ready presence.
Modern Lighting: It features a highly visible, full-LED headlight and tail light assembly, ensuring maximum illumination for night riding.
Digital Upgrades: The cockpit is fitted with a full digital instrument panel, providing clean, instant readouts, and is secured by a one-action key shutter system alongside Suzuki’s Easy Start integration.

The Raider R150 Blade Edition proves that even after years of dominance, Suzuki is still finding ways to sharpen its flagship underbone for the modern street rider.

The Urban Voltage: A First Look at the Honda WN7

May 4, 2026

by Zach

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As electric mobility steadily gains traction in the Philippines, major manufacturers are moving beyond small-displacement commuter scooters. The 2026 Makina Moto Expo provided a definitive look at the future of urban riding with the preview of the Honda WN7—the brand’s first full-sized electric motorcycle designed specifically for the local market.

Electric Powertrain and Output

The WN7 is built to deliver immediate, uncompromising power tailored for city overtaking and fast-paced urban transit.

The Battery: Power is drawn from a high-capacity 9.3-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack.
Performance Metrics: The electric motor generates an impressive 67 horsepower and a massive 100 Nm of torque. Because it is a fully electric drivetrain, that torque is available the exact millisecond the throttle is twisted, providing acceleration that easily rivals traditional middleweight combustion engines.

Design Architecture
Visually, the WN7 abandons the utilitarian look of early EVs for a sharp, aggressive streetfighter stance.

Lighting and Visibility: The front fascia is defined by compact twin projector LED headlights integrated with angular daytime running lights (DRLs), giving the bike a distinctive signature in rearview mirrors.
Instrumentation: Telemetry is managed through a 5-inch TFT instrument cluster, providing precise readouts on battery state-of-charge, range estimation, and motor output.

With an official showroom release slated for June 2026, the Honda WN7 represents a serious shift in the Philippine market, offering a high-performance, sustainable alternative for the daily rider.

The Neo-Sports Evolution: The 2026 Honda CB650R E-Clutch

May 4, 2026

by Zach

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The middleweight naked segment is highly competitive, but the Honda CB650R has always held a distinct advantage: the inline-four engine. While many manufacturers have transitioned to parallel-twins to cut costs, Honda retains the high-revving howl of a true four-cylinder. Fresh off its launch at the Makina Moto Expo 2026, the updated CB650R brings refined neo-sports cafe aesthetics and a major leap in transmission technology.

The Inline-Four and E-Clutch Integration The heart of the CB650R remains its exceptionally smooth 649cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine. However, the defining feature for the 2026 model year is the introduction of the Honda E-Clutch System.

Seamless Operation: The E-Clutch allows riders to start from a standstill, shift up and down through the six-speed gearbox, and come to a complete stop without ever touching the clutch lever.
Rider Control: Unlike a fully automatic transmission, the system retains the standard foot pedal for gear changes. For purists navigating tight mountain twisties who prefer manual modulation, the system can be instantly overridden simply by pulling the clutch lever.

Telemetry and Visual Updates The cockpit has received a significant modernization to match the premium engine.

TFT Display: The analog gauges have been replaced by a sharp 5-inch full-color TFT display. Honda utilizes an optical bonding process that injects resin between the screen and the glass, heavily reducing glare during midday rides.
RoadSync Integration: The system is equipped with Honda RoadSync, allowing seamless Bluetooth integration for turn-by-turn navigation, calls, and media control via an intuitive handlebar switch.

Market Availability Priced dynamically between ₱525,000 for the standard model and ₱565,000 for the E-Clutch variant, it is available locally in Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic, Grand Prix Red, and Matte Jeans Blue Metallic. The 2026 CB650R proves that the classic inline-four formula still holds a premier spot in the modern riding landscape.

The 2026 Mitsubishi Destinator

May 4, 2026

by Zach

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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.