JAC showcases RF8 PHEV at Auto Guangzhou 2024, to be launched in PH next year

GUANGZHOU: Jianghuai Automobile Company Limited (JAC) has showcased the RF8 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) at the ongoing Auto Guangzhou 2024.

JAC Motors Philippines — the Chinese carmaker’s Philippine subsidiary — is poised to launch the electrified multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) in 2025.

Its forthcoming introduction stirs excitement in the country’s multi-purpose car category. Further, it means that Filipino car buyers will soon have an added option when purchasing a family vehicle that can help them take the path to sustainable mobility.

While we await the specifications of the Philippine-spec JAC RF8 PHEV, a peek at the nameplate’s global model — which comes in two trims — can give us a glimpse of what to expect when the Astara Philippines-led marque brings in its MPV entry.

JAC RF8 PHEV global specs

Electrified powertrain

Abroad, the JAC RF8 PHEV packs a 1.5-liter hybrid engine paired with a dedicated hybrid transmission.

The said setup allows the MPV’s base variant to have an all-electric range of 150 kilometers (km) and a combined range of 1,150 km. The range-topping model push the numbers up with an estimated emissions-free range of 250 km and a combined range of 1,250 km.

Exterior

Like most Chinese MPVs on the market today, the JAC RF8 PHEV dons a luxurious and eye-catching fascia. It wears a large grille either with a three-dimensional latticework (for top variant) or with long vertical slats (for base model) flanked by a pair of sleek headlamps.

Its side profile features a linear beltline and large windows that boast an air of opulence brought by some chrome appliques. The doors (automatic for top-of-the-line variant) open up nicely for easy ingress and egress. It rides on a set of two-tone 18-inch wheels wrapped in 225/55 radial tires.

At the back, the vehicle has a horizontal light bar that appears to wrap around its rear portion. The tailgate (automatic for range-topping grade) allows access to a decent boot space that could accommodate weekly grocery items or laundry baskets.

Interior

Inside, the JAC RF8 PHEV wows with its screens. The base model seamlessly integrates the instrument cluster and infotainment system, while the top-tier PHEV trim gets a two-part display.

The driver is also treated to a leather-wrapped multi-functional steering wheel and a seat swathed in leather.

Better appointments await its passengers as those sitting in the second row are spoiled with captain’s chairs — also in leather upholstery. Third-row occupants will also get to enjoy decent head and leg room, with leather seats of course.

Finally, dedicated air conditioning vents ensure a more comfortable experience for those who will travel inside the JAC RF8 PHEV.

Possible launch date

JAC Philippines Brand Head Tonette Lee told Zigwheels Philippines that the RF8 PHEV is slated to arrive in the country next year.

Lee also said that its release will be sometime after the upcoming Manila International Auto Show (scheduled for April 10-13, 2025), which means that it can happen anytime in the second or third quarter next year.

By then, we will know if JAC Philippines will bring in two variants or if it will pick one of the aforementioned grades.

When it arrives, it will enter the market as one of the first few full hybrid models in the segment competing alongside the Toyota Zenix. The mild-hybrid Suzuki XL7 may also be seen as one of its rivals.

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