Budget cars for city driving and family outings
More Filipinos are looking into getting budget cars to conveniently drive around the city and visit neighboring provinces for vacations.
This is because the ongoing global pandemic has worsened Philippine public transportation; with social distancing lowering public vehicle capacity, snowballing into longer lines and waiting time during commutes.
We’ve compiled a list of entry-level vehicles in the Philippines to help you pick your next ride to beat the crowd:
Table of Contents
– Budget cars –
Budget-friendly car models are perfect when you’re single or have a small family, since these 5-seater sedans and hatchbacks are only relatively cheaper than big-sized SUVs.
Here are some recommendations for those looking for the best deals on 4 wheels:
1. Toyota Wigo (from P568,000, ~USD11,065) – small but fuel-efficient and reliable
Base model of the 2022 Toyota Wigo
Image credit: Autodeal.com.ph
The Toyota Wigo is a staple on Philippine roads – we even bet you probably know someone who has one. Wigo owners would swear by the reliability of this car, which looks small on the outside but has a decent amount of room inside for 4-5 people.
The base model is equipped with a fuel efficient 3-cylinder In-Line engine, and is perfect for those who want a city vehicle that can take you from Point A to Point B without guzzling liters of gas.
The wigo also has an extra protective layer of driver and passenger SRS airbags for your peace of mind especially when traveling with loved ones. Its Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) also helps prevent brake skidding.
2. Hyundai Reina (from P683,000, ~USD13,332) – a classy budget sedan
Base model of the 2022 Hyundai Reina
Image credit: Hyundai Philippines
The Hyundai Reina is an entry-level sedan but it boasts a modern, classy look up to par with more expensive models in the market.
With a 4-cylinder gasoline engine, it’s powerful enough for city and expressway driving. Plus, its 475-liter trunk is perfect for hauling groceries, luggage, or weekend activity equipment.
The Reina is a fit for those looking for more cargo space and who’d rather have the luxury of a sedan-sized trunk than the small cargo space of a hatchback.
3. Suzuki S-presso (from P523,000, ~USD10,210) – higher ground clearance for rough city roads
The 2022 Suzuki S-presso
Image credit: Suzuki
The Suzuki S-Presso provides a higher ground clearance, perfect for those who have to endure potholes and speed bumps on the road.
This small crossover has a modest 1-liter gasoline engine which is enough to drive around moderate traffic, a rear parking assist that is helpful in tight spots and parallel parking, and a 239-liter cargo space, big enough to haul groceries and weekend luggage.
Get the Suzuki S-Presso if you’re looking for a budget car with more ground clearance and an SUV-like design in a small package.
4. Volkswagen Santana (from P686,000, ~USD13,403) – an affordable European car
The 2022 Volkswagen Santana
Image credit: Autodeal.com.ph
The 2022 Volkswagen Santana represents well-built European cars without the hefty price tag.
This sedan offers dual front airbags, an Anti-Lock Brake System, and stability control for a safe and smooth ride. It also comes with ISOFIX tethers which are compatible with most child car seats, so you won’t have to get a new one just to work with this car.
Straightforward and classy, the design is unmistakably Volkswagen – perfect for those looking for a daily-driven city car with character.
– Mid-range cars –
Filipinos are undoubtedly family-oriented; that’s why bigger vehicles like vans and SUVs dominate our roads. There always has to be space for extended family.
Below are mid-range vehicles that can carry more than 5 people:
5. Suzuki Ertiga (from P763,000, ~USD14,904) – the all-around budget MPV
The 2022 Suzuki Ertiga
Image credit: Suzuki
The Suzuki Ertiga is a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that can be a reliable cargo- or people-hauler; with its ISOfix tethers for child seats which are perfect for out-of-town trips with kids and folding third-row seats that provide a total of 830 liters of cargo space.
This Suzuki MPV is a 7-seater that uses fuel efficiently. It also has SRS airbags and Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) as safety features.
6. Mitsubishi Xpander (from P1,008,000, ~USD19,713) – a sporty family hauler
The 2022 Mitsubishi Xpander
Image credit: Philkotse.com
The base model Mitsubishi Xpander is another 7-seater MPV fit for the typical Filipino family. Its immediately noticeable sleek front grille and daytime running lights (DRLs) give it a modern look, unlike old-school family vans.
The Xpander offers a fuel-efficient 1.5-liter gasoline engine, spacious cabin space for passengers, and a third row that can fold flush and carry 1,608 liters for more groceries, vacation luggage, or even camping equipment.
7. Toyota Innova (from P1,186,000, ~USD23,220) – upgraded infotainment for easy navigation
The 2022 Toyota Innova
Image credit: SoJoo Cars
The Toyota Innova is another Philippine road staple for bigger families. Avoid getting into traffic jams with the 2022 model’s upgraded infotainment system that can directly connect to navigation apps on your phone.
Get this trusted MPV with a spacious cabin and impressive power, perfect for carrying along up to 8 people on longer trips outside the city.
Budget cars in the Philippines provide safety and comfort
With the pandemic still here, going out, even on a budget car, is a respite for Filipinos everywhere.
Although we still hope for a better public transportation system, having a personal vehicle is a welcome thought.
Check out where you can go on a road trip:
Cover image adapted from: Philkotse,com, Autodeal.com.ph, Suzuki
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