There are test drives, and then there are TEST DRIVES — the kind that spans highways, beaches and unexpected bonding moments over car features that make you go, “This is cool!” The recent Dongfeng media drive from Pasig to Anvaya Cove in Bataan was exactly that, offering a deep dive into the brand’s growing lineup of electric and hybrid vehicles. I rode in the Aeolus Huge and Forthing U-Tour from Pasig to Bataan. I got behind the wheel of the Forthing Friday with my buddy Eli from Bataan to Makati. Here’s how it all went down.
Like any proper road trip, our journey began with a briefing. Between introductions, checklists and some lost-in-translation moments, the key takeaways were clear: stay safe, don’t break anything, and if you do, pretend you didn’t (kidding, of course). After some breakfast (because no Filipino trip starts without food), we were assigned vehicles. From Pasig to a gas station in Lakeshore, Mexico, Pampanga, I rode in the Aeolus Huge. Then, at Lakeshore, we switched vehicles, and I rode the Forthing U-Tour all the way to Anvaya Cove in Bataan. For the return trip, I finally got to drive the Forthing Friday with Eli back to Makati.
I hopped into the Aeolus Huge — which, let’s be honest, has a name that sounds like it should come with a cape. This hybrid SUV lives up to its name, offering a spacious cabin, soft leather seats and a smooth ride that absorbs road imperfections impressively well. As a passenger, what stood out was the NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) control — or rather, the lack of noise. Conversations inside were relaxed, no need to yell over the usual highway drone. Plus, with plush seating and decent legroom, I could actually stretch out and pretend I was some kind of VIP.
The Forthing U-Tour. I’ll admit, MPVs aren’t usually my thing — they’re often seen as “family cars” (aka: what your Tito drives when he insists on carpooling). But this one has style. The dual 10.25-inch screens and adaptive cruise control made it feel more premium than expected. And on the road, it was smooth, stable, and well-insulated from outside noise. If you’re in the market for a stylish, tech-filled MPV, this might be worth a closer look.
We made a stop at Subic Bay’s airport hangar for a quick photoshoot. There’s something about placing a lineup of sleek new cars in front of aircraft hangars that just makes them look even more futuristic. The contrast of cutting-edge EVs and hybrid SUVs against the backdrop of an old airport made for some striking shots. It was also a great chance to take a breather before the final leg of our drive back to Manila.
The Forthing Friday is one of those cars that makes an impression even before you step inside. With its futuristic front grille, sharp LED lights, and sleek body lines, it looks like it should belong in a sci-fi movie. But the real surprise came from how it drove. Powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor, the 630km China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle range variant I drove delivered instant torque — the kind that lets you overtake effortlessly. The steering felt light, perfect for city driving, but also stable enough for long stretches on the expressway. No, we didn’t get a ticket for overspeeding. We were two well-behaved boys following the rules and just enjoying the ride.
Adding to standout moments are the following: The 10.25-inch touchscreen, which was crisp, responsive and — thankfully — not confusing to use. The Drive Modes — Eco, Normal, and Sport — offered a noticeable difference, with Sport mode giving it a nice kick, proving that EVs don’t have to be boring. Then there was the silence — there’s something eerie but cool about an electric SUV pulling away without a sound.
After two days of driving, riding, and absorbing all things Dongfeng, one thing is clear: they’re here to make an impact. The Forthing Friday makes a compelling case for EV adoption, the Aeolus Huge proves hybrids can be both powerful and comfortable, and the U-Tour is an MPV that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
Would I drive a Forthing Friday daily? With the improving charging infrastructure, absolutely. Would I recommend the Aeolus Huge to someone looking for a hybrid SUV? Yes. And would I take the U-Tour on a road trip with friends? If they chip in for gas, sure! Just kidding. Yes, I will.
Dongfeng may not yet be a household name in the Philippines, but if this test drive proved anything, it’s that they’re gearing up for a serious push into the market. Keep an eye on them — you might just be surprised.
You may check your nearest Dongfeng dealership on their official website at https://dongfengmotorsph.com.