GAC Motor distributor Astara Philippines previewed its first electrified model back at the 2024 Manila International Auto Show with the Emkoo Hybrid, marking the brand’s intentions to enter the hybrid electric vehicle market.

Five months had passed since then, but now it looks like GAC is getting ready to roll out units of their electrified crossover. As we found out, dealerships are now starting to accept reservations for the Emkoo Hybrid. The dealership tells us that a launch is scheduled to take place by next month, and the indicative pricing so far is set at under PHP 1.7 million.

Once launched, the Emkoo Hybrid is set to serve as the new top-spec variant of the Emkoo lineup. While its exterior and interior features are similar to the Emkoo GL, the difference is seen once you pop the hood of the Emkoo Hybrid.

Instead of a 1.5-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder, the Emkoo Hybrid is powered by a 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine assisted by an electric motor. The engine makes 140 PS at 6000 rpm and 180 Nm of torque at 4500 rpm. But combined with the electric motor, the Emkoo Hybrid makes a total system output of 238 PS and 300 Nm of torque.

Unlike ICE variants of the Emkoo, the hybrid’s powertrain is paired to a 2-speed dedicated hybrid transmission. According to GAC Motor, the Emkoo Hybrid is capable of achieving 22.1 km/l.

If GAC keeps its pricing of under PHP 1.7 million for the Emkoo Hybrid, that would mean the electrified model only costs PHP 200K more than the top-spec Emkoo GL. On a market standpoint, that would also give GAC competitive pricing as they could undercut the GWM Haval H6 HEV and even the Toyota Corolla Cross GR-S.