Ford Explorer 2.3 Limited EcoBoost (2016) vs GAC GS8 HEV 2.0T Hybrid AWD (E-CVT) (2026)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Ford Explorer 2.3 Limited EcoBoost (2016) vs GAC GS8 HEV 2.0T Hybrid AWD (E-CVT) (2026) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | Ford Explorer 2.3 Limited EcoBoost (2016) Ford ₱2,748,000 | GAC GS8 HEV 2.0T Hybrid AWD (E-CVT) (2026) GAC ₱2,338,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2016 | 2026 |
| Warranty | 100,000 km/3-years | 5-years/150,000km |
| Availability | Current | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-4 | Hybrid |
| Displacement | 2353cc | 1991cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-valve | 16-Valve |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Hybrid |
| Max Power | 274 PS @ 5500 rpm | 190 PS |
| Max Torque | 408 Nm @ 3000 rpm | 320 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed AT | E-CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | SUV | Large Crossover SUV |
| Segment | J | SUV |
| Doors | 5 | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2+3+2 | 2+3+2 |
| Length (mm) | 5029 | 5015 |
| Width (mm) | 2006 | 1950 |
| Height (mm) | 1778 | 1718 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2865 | 2920 |
| Fuel Tank (L) | 70 | 58 |
| Construction | — | Unibody |
| Exterior Colors | — | Crystal White, Elegant Black, Moonlight Grey, Speed Silver, and Ink Seal Green |
| Curb Weight (kg) | — | 2120 |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | Independent MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut w/Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link | Multi-link with Coil Spring |
| Front Wheels | 20 Alloy | 20 |
| Rear Wheels | 20 Alloy | 20 |
| Front Tires | 255/50 R20 | 255/50R20 |
| Rear Tires | 255/50 R20 | 255/50R20 |
| Front Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Steering Type | EPS | EPS |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | No | Yes |
| Differential Lock | No | No |
| Steering Column | — | Tilt & Telescope |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Stability Control | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes | Yes |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | No | No |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | No |
| Hill Start Assist | No | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | No | Yes |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | No |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Front Curtain Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Side Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Engine Immobilizer | Yes | Yes |
| Security Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | Central Locking |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Dual Electronic Automatic Temperature Control | Automatic Climate Control Dual Zone |
| Rear A/C Vents | Yes | Yes |
| Seat Material | Leather | Leather |
| Parking Brake | Manual | EPB |
| Key Type | Keyless Entry | Keyless Entry |
| Push-Button Start | Yes | No |
| Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | Yes |
| Paddle Shifters | Yes | No |
| Reverse Camera | No | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | No | Yes |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Power Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | Yes |
| Eco Mode | No | No |
| Antenna | yes | yes |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Speakers | 12 | 7 |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | No | Yes |
| Android Auto | No | No |
| USB | Yes | No |
| AUX Input | Yes | No |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| CD Player | Yes | No |
| DVD Player | No | No |
| MP3 Playback | Yes | No |
| iPod Support | Yes | No |
| SD Card Slot | No | No |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | Halogen | LED |
| Fog Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | No | Yes |
Ford Explorer 2.3 Limited EcoBoost (2016) vs GAC GS8 HEV 2.0T Hybrid AWD (E-CVT) (2026): which should you buy?
For the Filipino buyer prioritizing daily value and lower running costs, the GAC GS8 HEV is the superior choice. It offers a lower purchase price of ₱2,338,000 compared to the Ford Explorer's ₱2,748,000, saving approximately ₱410,000. Additionally, the GAC GS8 provides a longer warranty (5-years/150,000km) versus Ford's 3-years. However, the Ford Explorer 2.3 Limited EcoBoost delivers significantly more performance with 274 PS and 408 Nm of torque, whereas the GAC GS8 produces only 190 PS. The Ford also offers a 7-seater layout (2+3+2) with FWD, while the GAC GS8 is a 5-door large crossover with AWD. If budget and warranty coverage are priorities, choose the GAC; if maximum power and a 7-passenger capacity are required, the Ford is the logical selection.
Frequently asked questions
Which vehicle is cheaper?
The GAC GS8 HEV is cheaper at ₱2,338,000 compared to the Ford Explorer 2.3 Limited EcoBoost at ₱2,748,000.
Which car has more power?
The Ford Explorer 2.3 Limited EcoBoost is more powerful with 274 PS and 408 Nm of torque, while the GAC GS8 HEV has 190 PS and 320 Nm.
Which has a longer warranty?
The GAC GS8 HEV offers a longer warranty of 5-years/150,000km, whereas the Ford Explorer comes with a 100,000 km/3-years warranty.
Which is better for daily commuting in the Philippines?
The GAC GS8 HEV is likely better for daily commuting due to its lower price and hybrid fuel type, while the Ford Explorer offers more power but costs ₱410,000 more.