Exploring the North and Chasing Sunsets is What the Haval Jolion HEV Does in Style | Motourismo

Text and Photos by Monch Henares

Budda heads at the Isdaan Talavera in Sto. Domingo, Nueva Ecija

Road trips offer the best way to experience the beauty of the countryside, discover hidden gems, and immerse in local culture. On a recent adventure from Manila to Ilagan, Isabela, via Nueva Ecija, we put the Haval Jolion HEV to the test, passing through scenic towns like Sto. Domingo, Dupax del Sur, Ramon (Magat Dam), Alicia, Cauayan, and Dipaculao. More than just a road trip, the highlight of our journey was witnessing the Bambanti Festival, a grand celebration of Isabela’s rich culture and agricultural heritage. With its fuel efficiency, comfort, and smart technology, the Jolion HEV proved to be the perfect companion for an adventure-packed trip.

At the St. Vincent Ferrer Parish Church in Dupax del Sur, Nueva Ecija

Our journey kicked off in the early morning, gliding through the highways of Nueva Ecija with the Haval Jolion HEV’s whisper-quiet hybrid system. The fuel-saving electric motor came in handy as we cruised through the vast rice fields of Sto. Domingo, offers a smooth and efficient ride.

The real test of power came as we climbed the Sierra Madre mountain range toward Dupax del Sur. The Jolion HEV’s 190 hp and 375 Nm of torque made uphill drives effortless, with Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane-Keeping Assist reducing driver fatigue. As we descended into Ramon, we made a quick stop at Magat Dam, one of the country’s largest hydroelectric plants. The Jolion HEV, an eco-friendly hybrid, felt right at home beside this renewable energy powerhouse—both representing the future of sustainability.

#MagatDam

Atop the Magat Dam overlooking the Cagayan River in Ramon, Isabela

Reaching Ilagan, Isabela, we were greeted by the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the Bambanti Festival. Known as one of the grandest festivals in the north, Bambanti (which means “scarecrow” in Ilocano) celebrates the province’s agricultural success, rich history, and strong community spirit.

Beautiful Bambanti performers dressed in intricate costumes inspired by the province’s agricultural heritage

The streets were alive with elaborate scarecrow-inspired floats, cultural dance performances, and local delicacies that showcased the best of Isabela. The festival’s highlight, the street dance competition, featured talented performers dressed in intricate costumes inspired by the province’s agricultural heritage. As visitors, we immersed ourselves in the local food scene, trying famous dishes like pancit cabagan and inatata (sticky rice treats wrapped in banana leaves).

Haval Jolion HEV’s two-tone spacious cabin

With the Haval Jolion HEV’s spacious cabin, we had no problem storing festival souvenirs and local goodies. The large cargo space and premium interior made post-festival relaxation easy, offering a comfortable ride after a full day of festivities.

Corn fields in San Agustin, Isabela

Before heading back, we decided to take a scenic detour through Dipaculao, Aurora, known for its breathtaking coastal views. The road from Isabela to Aurora had a mix of highways, mountain roads, and rough patches, but the Jolion HEV’s smooth suspension and high ground clearance handled the terrain with ease.

Stunning Pacific Ocean view from Dipaculao, Aurora

Driving along the coast, we took a moment to appreciate the stunning Pacific Ocean views while enjoying the SUV’s panoramic sunroof—a feature that made the journey even more special.

Hanging bridge at Camp Vizcarra, Ramon, Isabela

During our long-haul drive to Isabela, the hybrid system’s fuel economy of 5.0L/100 km kept costs low while delivering a smooth and powerful ride. Whether it was the uphill roads of Dupax del Sur or the coastal detours through Dipaculao, the Jolion HEV handled every terrain effortlessly. Returning to Manila, the comfort of the plush leather seats, spacious cabin, and quiet hybrid drive made all the difference, keeping driver fatigue to a minimum.

Yet, the adventure didn’t stop there. The next day, after a well-deserved rest, we were back on the road—this time heading south to Batangas City for a laid-back Sunset Session by the shore.

A Coastal Drive to Remember

The drive to Batangas City was a welcome change of pace. As we left behind the city’s hustle and entered the open roads of SLEX and STAR Tollway, the Jolion HEV’s smooth handling and responsive acceleration made highway cruising a delight.

With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly syncing our favorite road trip playlist, the drive felt effortless. And thanks to the SUV’s advanced safety features, including Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind-Spot Monitoring, long-distance driving felt more secure and stress-free.

Driving into the Sunset, FORE!

As we neared Batangas Bay, the golden hour began to set in. Parking along the coast, we stepped out to witness one of nature’s greatest shows—a breathtaking Batangas sunset, with hues of orange and pink painting the sky. The scenery was so perfect,  I could not stop myself from hitting a few golf balls into the horizon. With the Jolion HEV’s panoramic sunroof, even those last few moments in the car were a visual treat, allowing us to soak in the view before heading out to the city.

Sunset sessions at Batangas Bay
(Photo by Arabelle Jimenez)

After experiencing both the thrill of a festival-packed northern adventure and the tranquility of a coastal retreat, one thing became clear: the Haval Jolion HEV is built for every kind of journey. Whether you’re chasing cultural experiences, scenic road trips, or quiet moments by the sea, this hybrid SUV delivers.

Haval Jolion HEV, made for the traveller

From the mountains of the north to the shores of the south, the Haval Jolion HEV proved to be more than just a car—it’s a travel companion built for adventure, relaxation, and everything in between.

So, where to next? With the Jolion HEV, every road leads to a new experience worth taking.