Best cars for first-time buyers in the Philippines

Choosing your first car can be a difficult decision as there are many options available in the Philippines. You have a whole range of sedan options to choose from with the likes of the Honda City and Toyota Vios being popular options. You also have the very featured-packed crossover segment that has recently bloomed over the past few years with more and more models vying to be the next big hit. Aside from this the well-established SUV segment still offers many great options for those looking to get their next off-road-ready 7-seater vehicle. 

With that in mind, we have created a shortlist of brand new cars today that we deem the best for newbie drivers. These vehicles come with a balanced range of features along with prices that many will enjoy. The vehicles mentioned also come with certain features that will help you learn the ropes of driving without compromising comfort and safety.

On top of the list is the Toyota Vios, which is almost everywhere in the country. The Toyota Vios is popular in the Philippines for good reasons. The 2023 model is made with a 1498 cc engine and CVT, making it an appropriate choice for the crowded city streets of Manila, not to mention the traffic and other urban areas. The 1.3-liter engine is just right for everyday city driving, while the 1.5-liter option offers more power for occasional longer drives, maybe to places like Tagaytay or Baguio. The stability and ease of driving of Toyota Vios make it a safe choice for those who are new to driving in the Philippines

An all-around car for Filipinos, the Honda City has spacious interiors and modern features, making it a good choice for first-time car buyers in the Philippines. Honda City's 1.5-liter engine is also efficient, which is important for daily commutes in traffic-prone areas, while its comfortable ride and stable handling make it a suitable choice for those who are into comfort and a smooth driving experience, whether in busy cities or on longer drives to provinces. 

Looking at the more economical options, you cannot just skip Mitsubishi Mirage G4 GLS CVT, priced at P899,000. The vehicle is made with features like a 7-inch infotainment system, which is compatible with Filipinos, who are becoming more interested in cars with high-technology features. The 1.2-liter engine is also efficient, which is another point of consideration in a country where fuel economy is important as it can help you save tons due to traffic conditions, especially in Metro Manila and even in cities like Cebu and Davao. The compact size of the vehicle is a bonus for driving through the typically tight parking spaces and narrow streets.

Starting at P609,000, the Suzuki Dzire is definitely a good deal considering it offers a spacious interior, a good factor to consider for Filipino families or those who often travel with friends. The car's fuel efficiency is another major advantage, given the fluctuating fuel prices in the Philippines. The 1.2-liter engine provides enough power for common driving scenarios in the country, from city driving to occasional trips on provincial roads.

In the small yet feature-rich car category, the Mazda2 Hatchback is definitely a good choice for the Philippine market, where compact cars are favored due to their ease of maneuverability in cities. If you are a first-time car buyer, then its safety features would align with the concerns of new drivers in the Philippines since it provides a sense of security amidst the often hard driving conditions in the country.

Yes, we know the Ford Territory may be more expensive, but hey, it comes with advanced features, which makes its price a good deal. Its 1.5-liter engine is strong enough for most driving conditions in the Philippines, from flat highways to hilly areas. Features like adaptive cruise control and wireless connectivity cater to the growing demand for tech in vehicles among Filipinos. Ford Territory's performance in traffic, a common scenario in Metro Manila, is also something to consider.

One of the most talked about cars in 2023, the Suzuki Jimny, got the Philippine market inquiring and asking for it everywhere, for a reason. The car is equipped with a 1.5L engine, making it a good choice for both city driving and off-road adventures, perfect for exploring the different Philippine road conditions. The good reputation of the car in terms of stability and handling makes it a good option for those driving through both the crowded streets of Quezon City and the rugged paths in more rural areas.

Getting your first car shouldn't be scary. It's actually pretty exciting once you know what you're looking for. Whether it's your first time buying a car or not, start by getting a quote for the car you like. You may visit AutoDeal and ask for a quote for the car you want, like the Toyota Vios or the Mitsubishi Mirage. Make your first car-buying experience easy and fun.