10 Best value-packed cars under P1-million in the Philippines

If you're in the market for a vehicle but only have a P1,000,000 budget, then this list – in no particular order – will help you choose. The list covers four categories that starting with small MPVs and ending with a couple of crossovers. Variants may not always be top of the line offerings, however. 

The Suzuki Ertiga was able to score a 4.0/5 in our review. The vehicle had an impressive fuel economy and the engine performance and handling greatly improved over its previous version. The interior was also something to note, as the plastics were well executed. The downside to the Ertiga is that the ride comfort was on the bouncy side. It was also difficult to find a comfortable driving position. Unfortunately, the vehicle does not come with speed-sensing door locks.

The only variant you will be able to get for under budget from the Toyota Rush model lineup is the E variant. It comes at a disadvantage compared to the rest on the list as its E variant only comes with 5 seats. If you’re willing to spend a little more you can opt for the G variant or even the automatic E variant. Our review of the Rush had it score 3.5/5. It also has its claim to fame for scoring a five-star rating in the ASEAN NCAP crash test.

The Honda Mobilio was also one of our top scorers during our reviews. It was able to get a score of 4.0/5 during our testing. This little MPV can seat seven people even at its entry-level configuration. It boasts a flexible seating configuration in which the second and third rows can be completely tumbled down to allow a larger cargo compartment. You can get your hands on one of these at P958,000 for the V CVT variant.

The Mitsubishi Xpander scored a 3.9/5 in our review. Despite its oddball styling, we liked that the ride was comfortable and refined. We also liked that it cruise control and navigation – at least for the top of the line variant. It also boasted excellent space and storage capabilities. What we didn’t like, however, was the looks which could be a love it or hate it kind of thing. The transmission was also a bit of a let down as it only had four gears.

This little hatchback scored 3.8/5 in our review. What you’re going to like about the Chevrolet Spark is its spritely engine and the features that come with this small form factor. It also has impressive cabin space for its class with plenty of cubby holes for storage. Downsides to the hatchback are that it has a lot of piano black plastics which will easily scratch. Its design is also a point of contention. 

Along with the Spark, this is another hatchback on the list. The Honda Brio comes in with a score of 4.0/5 from our review. The vehicle, despite its small engine and size, has a lot to offer for its price point. What we liked about was it was able to tick the right boxes in terms of features. The handling was also impressive, as well as its fuel efficiency. The current version of the vehicle has a smaller engine compared to its predecessor but it still gets the job done. What you might not like about the Brio is the brakes were a bit on the mushy side. 

Up next is the Kia Soluto, which scored a 4.0/5 from our reviews. What you might like when considering to buy this vehicle is that it has a seamless infotainment system. It is also notably refined for its segment. Another plus is its impressive fuel economy figures. What you might not like its transmission as it has a tendency to shift early, it also lacks a bit when it comes to safety features.

Over at the other Korean carmaker, we have the Hyundai Reina. The sedan was able to score a 3.8/5 during our review. The variant we tested was manual, for those who enjoy driving stick will be happy to know that it has a semi short-throw which is good if you want to be able to row through the gears quickly. Storage is also plentiful in the vehicle as it has a lot of cubby holes and pockets to store your stuff into along with a massive trunk. What you might not like, however, is the design of the rear of the vehicle as it does not match the design language of the front. The car’s handling is something that can be improved as well as its noise vibration and harshness (NVH) insulation.

Moving onto a Japanese car manufacturer, we have the Suzuki Dzire. The little Japanese sedan has a lot to offer despite its size. When we reviewed the unit we gave it a score of 3.9/5. The Dzire had composed and stable even at high speeds. It also has the added bonus of being the only car in its class to have rear A/C vents. The downside to the Dzire is the transmission, you will need time to get used to how it works. It also has a rather shallow trunk which might affect you when you need to store or carry things in the vehicle. It also has no speed-sensing door locks, so you might have to remind yourself or check to see if the doors are locked from time to time. 

Last but not least is the MG ZS. it is one of the older models on the list but is still on sale today. When we got to review it, we gave it a score of 3.9/5. For its price tag, it came with a lot of features, it was also thrifty on fuel. It's also one of the few units on the list that comes with Apple CarPlay and voice commands. For its rather affordable price, it does have its short-comings. The ZS is low on power and low on torque despite having an engine size similar to its rivals. Body roll is also noticeable during cornering at certain speeds. The transmission is a four-speed automatic for all the AT variants.