Best sedans in the Philippines for first-time buyers

Sedans are probably one of the easiest cars to drive around, it does suit the needs and tastes of first-time drivers. Its compact dimensions and easy drivability do provide first-timers ease and confidence, especially when going through tight spaces. Not to mention, they’ll also save time and money from having trips to the gas station given the esteemed fuel efficiency of these cars. 

So if you’re a first-time driver and ready to purchase your first ride, then you might as well consider the following sedans we’ve listed out below. Ranging from pint-sized to subcompacts, pick the ride that will capture your needs and wants as a first-time driver. Also, don’t hesitate to click on the ‘Get Quote’ button—it’s absolutely free. You could even request to test drive the cars so you would know what you’ll like about them, first hand.

First up is the Kia Soluto, which is the smallest offering in the brand’s Philippine lineup. Notably, it shares a number of mechanical components with the Hyundai Reina, from the platform to the 1.4-liter gasoline engine that produces 94 hp and 132 Nm of torque. Buyers have the choice of pairing its motor with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed manual transmission. Notably, it’s one of the smaller options in the market to come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

This subcompact sedan is hailed as the longest in its class. Not only that, but the MG 5 is also big in terms of features, as opting for the range-topping 1.5 Alpha CVT will give you power-adjustable seats for the driver, a 360-degree camera, and a sunroof. In terms of powertrain, the MG 5 is run by a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that produces 112 hp and 150 Nm of torque. Its motor can either be paired with a 5-speed manual or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Next on the list is the Mitsubishi Mirage G4. Like its hatch counterpart, the G4 is run by a familiar 1.2-liter engine that churns out 77 hp and 100 Nm of torque. You can even opt for a 5-speed manual or a CVT, while it isn’t as flashy as some of its competitors, the Mirage G4 is practical in the sense that it gives you all of the necessities that you’ll be needing for your drive. Not to mention, your passengers also get more than enough leg and headroom which should allow them to stay comfortable throughout the entire trip.

Just recently, the Suzuki Dzire has undergone a minor refresh. It only includes minor changes which include the revised fascia and new gauge cluster. The rest remains as it is, it’s still that small wonder many have come to love. This pint-sized sedan is motivated by a small and extremely efficient 1.2-liter gasoline engine that could either be paired with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed AGS. The Dzire comes with a good amount of convenience features, this includes the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that's exclusive on the top-of-the-line GL+ AGS.

The Volkswagen Santana is currently your most affordable ticket to a German driving experience. This subcompact sedan has been around in the market for quite some time now, that’s why Volkswagen recently gave the car a new set of wheels, a better touchscreen infotainment system, and the addition of a tire pressure monitoring system. Only the entry-level variant comes with a smaller 1.4-liter gasoline, and it can only be paired with a 5-speed manual. On the other hand, the mid-tier S AT and SE AT are powered by a 1.5-liter engine that’s solely mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

It’s the smallest and most affordable Mazda for you. Like its larger siblings, the Mazda2 offers Jinba Ittai dynamics coupled with the brand’s KODO aesthetics in a more compact package. It’s just an easy car to drive, plus, it’s mighty efficient too. The Mazda2 can only be had with a 1.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine paired with the brand’s 6-speed automatic transmission. It is able to produce 108 hp and 141 Nm of torque. Convenience features include steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, automatic climate control, and the 7-inch Mazda Connect touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

It’s probably one of the most spacious and well-equipped cars in its segment. The Honda City combines its simple yet desirable looks with good performance and practicality. All variants of the City come with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, while only the entry-level S can opt for a CVT or a 6-speed manual while the rest of the variant range are only available with a CVT. Almost all of its trims except the S MT, come standard with an 8-inch infotainment system that’s ready with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Philippine roads have been flooded with a bunch of Toyota Vios for years now. Like most Toyotas, the Vios does have a strong reputation in terms of reliability. With its recent upgrades, the subcompact sedan has become a more desirable option in the market. While the 1.3-liter and 1.5-liter gasoline engines were retained, select variants of the car now get a bunch of notable equipment such as the 6.75-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. New for 2021 though is its special GR-S trim which carries a number of aesthetic upgrades in order to make the subcompact sedan sportier than its standard variant. Plus, the new range-topping variant also comes with an improved 10-speed CVT.