We already know GAC Motor PH will be launching the M8 luxury MPV in Q1 of 2024. Not only will it serve as the successor to the GN8, but the M8 is also set to deliver a luxurious riding experience for its passengers. It’s also likely to be priced competitively which means it may sell for significantly less compared to its closest rival, the Toyota Alphard.

Aside from the all-new M8, another luxury MPV that we wish could make its way here to the Philippines is the GAC E9. But wait a moment, isn’t the E9 just a flashier-looking M8? Well, not exactly.

From the outside, it may look like the E9 differs from the M8 via the unique horizontal style grille and the more prominent set of LED daytime running lights. But unlike the M8 which is available with either a 2.0L turbo or a 2.0L turbo hybrid powertrain, the E9 is actually a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

That’s right, the E9 is essentially the PHEV version of the M8 and it gets more than just a prettier face. At the heart of the E9 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that’s assisted by a front-mounted electric motor and a floor-mounted battery pack.

The engine alone already makes 190 PS and 330 Nm of torque. But thanks to the electric motor providing extra get-up and go, the E9 actually has a total system output of 372 PS and a healthy 630 Nm of torque.

This makes the E9 more powerful than the M8 and M8 Hybrid. On a full tank of gas and a fully charged battery, GAC claims the E9 can travel up to 1,032 km. On battery power alone, GAC says the E9 can cover up to 136 km without a single drop of fuel.

When it comes to amenities, the second row comes with captain seats with semi-aniline leather complete with a touchscreen that can adjust the seats’ settings. It also has a high-tech dual digital display on the dashboard just like the M8 which can serve as both infotainment and manage the onboard controls.

There are no reports yet if the GAC E9 will be offered in the Philippines. But since the automaker will already be bringing the M8 next year, perhaps they will first see how will the local market accept the M8. Afterward, GAC Motor PH might start thinking about bringing the plug-in hybrid E9 next.

Do you think the E9 will make sense here should GAC bring it to the Philippines?