These 5 Toyota cars captured the most attention in 2023

In discussions about the biggest and most influential car brand in the Philippines, the Toyota brand is the name that sits at the top. Filipino car buyers gravitate towards Toyota vehicles for their famed toughness, reliability, and the ease with which they can obtain replacement parts.

Throughout its history here in the Philippines, some Toyota vehicles have made an indelible mark in Filipino culture. One such car is the Toyota Tamaraw, a flexible vehicle that can transport a family or be used as a rugged workhorse for small businesses. Another nameplate that cemented Toyota’s reputation is the Corolla. Arguably the most iconic version of the Corolla is the Corolla E100 or Big Body, famed for its space, accessible price, and reliability. Even today, the Big Body and the Tamaraw can still be found on the streets, with dedicated owners maintaining their beloved vehicles.

These are among the Toyota models that resonate strongly with Filipinos in their memories. However, when it comes to the current lineup, which Toyota vehicles are currently capturing the attention of Filipinos? To uncover the answer, we delve into our database of inquiries made in 2023 to identify the most inquired-for Toyota cars.

The first on our list is not the car you’d expect but it tops the list nonetheless, it’s the Toyota Raize. At 3.63 percent of total inquiries, the Raize doesn’t get the bragging rights for being the most inquired model on AutoDeal, but it sits at the top among all its stablemates. This result is unexpected for some because back in 2022, the Raize’s current position was owned by the iconic Hilux pickup truck. 

So why do people like the Raize? It’s quite simple really. The Raize gained popularity among many buyers due to its practicality, appearance, and price. In addition, thanks to two powertrain choices, Filipino buyers have the option of choosing economy and performance. Last but not least, the Raize’s 200 mm ground clearance is also a major selling point, considering that most of the roads in the Philippines are underdeveloped or a rutted mess.

Second on the list with 3.16 percent of total inquiries is the previous owner of the top spot on our list, it’s the Toyota Hilux. The Hilux remains a popular choice in Toyota’s lineup because of its toughness and enduring rugged looks. With news of the new GR-Sport entering the market soon, the Hilux nameplate may see another jump in popularity in the near future.

Sitting in third place with 2.50 percent of total inquiries is the Toyota Wigo. Interest in the Wigo nameplate was revitalized with the introduction of the second-generation model in July of 2023. Filipinos like the old Wigo for its affordability and design, however, because of its age, interest in the nameplate scaled down until the next generation’s launch in 2023. The latest Wigo continues to follow the same successful formula as its predecessor, but thanks to the revamped design, people fell in love with the Wigo nameplate all over again.

The Toyota Vios remains unforgettable, despite its age, the Vios still manages to secure a spot with 2.33 percent of total inquiries on AutoDeal. The current XP150 Vios still captures the attention of Filipino buyers and it's easy to see why. The Vios is affordable, economical, and easy to drive in Metro Manila, all the things you ask for in a four-door sedan.

At the end of our list is the Toyota Avanza with 2.13 percent of total inquiries on AutoDeal. The new Avanza launched in 2022 but interest in the seven-seater MPV is still going strong. The third-generation Avanza has a completely redesigned body and modern interior than before, coupled with a price tag that tops out at P1,059,000, the Avanza is a compelling choice for buyers who want an affordable seven-seater vehicle.

Then and now, the Toyota brand remains to be a top contender in the Philippine automotive market. There are only a limited number of car brands in the Philippines with a strong pull and even fewer with a strong, dedicated fanbase like Toyota. If the main considerations in your next car purchase are reliability, toughness, and fastidious build quality, you can’t go wrong with choosing a Toyota. If you’re interested in checking out any of the models in this list, head over to the Toyota Car Guide page on AutoDeal.com.ph.