7 value-packed hatchbacks in the Philippines for under P700k

If you are in the market for a new car in the Philippines this year, we highly suggest you consider these great hatchbacks a closer look. They offer quite a lot of practicality for the price of just under P700,000. As a first car, it’s always the best option to think through because of its cheap maintenance cost, fuel efficiency, and practical space.

Hatchbacks are compact and could seat up to five people comfortably while offering plenty of room for travel necessities. They have the true character to be adept in the city, as well as a getaway car for long road trips. All thanks to its light steering that’s puts away the stress in driving.

The Kia Picanto is the brand's smallest hatchback on its lineup with a bold exterior design crowned by the signature tiger grille. Its new styling and competitive price tag give it an edge over its competitors. It's cute, stylish, and has a wide array of pastel colors to choose from. Inside, the Picanto has a well-integrated dashboard with an orange hue. And if you need more space, the rear seats can be entirely folded to maximize the cargo space.  

Depending on the variant you get, the Picanto could either be run by a 3-cylinder 1.0-liter gasoline engine that's capable of churning out 66 hp and 95 Nm of torque or a 1.2L engine gasoline engine that produces 83 hp and 122 Nm of torque. Both powerplants are given the choice of a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Only the LX trims sit below the P700,000 price range, while the EX variants will require you to shell out a bit extra.

The Chevrolet Spark is one of the most affordable road-going cars in the Bowtie brand’s lineup. It’s a hatchback that features a youthful design in the way of cheerful accents. Inside offers instrument gauges benefitting from LED technology while a MyLink touchscreen head unit ensures you get the best entertainment during your trip.

Regardless if you’re in or out of the city, the Chevrolet Spark provides ample storage for your drinks or loose items. If you need extra room for cargo, the 60:40 split allows you to stretch those empty spaces for generous accommodation. Out of two variants, the Spark 1.4 LT MT is the only trim that can be had at just under P700,000.

The Suzuki Celerio is one of the marque's best-selling vehicles, armed with practicality, notable fuel efficiency, and classic hatchback looks. Even with the diminutive size, its 2,425 mm wheelbase offers generous interior space even at the second-row seats. It’s also one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the road today, topping DOE – Petron Fuel Economy Run among participating gasoline engine vehicles in 2016.

Under its hood is a three-cylinder 1.0-liter DOHC engine that can produce up to 67 hp and 90 Nm of torque coupled to either a five-speed manual transmission or a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) making it the first model in its segment to offer a CVT. Notably, its entire variant range sits at just under P700,000.

The Mitsubishi Mirage is a hatchback that should be noted with great regard because it brought Filipinos a car that provides value for money. Never before seen in a car at this price point offering dual airbags, a 1.2-liter engine that could either be paired with a 5-speed manual or a CVT gearbox to meet the fuel efficiency standards for the eco and budget-conscious drivers. It also offers a good balance between exterior dimensions and interior space for five adults and their luggage. 

Years have passed and car prices have already gone up, with both the GLX MT and GLX AT variants retailing above the P700,000 mark. The Mirage deserves a special mention though, given that it is truly a great hatchback to have in this era and will surely bring you to your destination safe and sound.

A decade has passed and Toyota still continues to offer the Filipino a wide array of choices for their motoring needs including the Wigo – the smallest car in its stable. It may not be the most powerful car in this segment but it is reassuringly spacious and practical for the city dweller. Interior plastics don’t bring a premium flair but it’s hard and durable to last for the whole time the car can still crank up its engine. 

To put things in tune, it’s a Toyota that offers an abundance in parts, ease of maintenance, and reliability that serves as a hand-down present to your children. From the E grade up to the G, prices retail at just under P700,000.

The Suzuki S-Presso is the latest model to join the brand's small vehicle lineup. It's not your average hatchback as it does sit a bit higher than the usual, 180 mm to be exact. The interior packs a good amount of space and it gives you all the basic things you'll be needing throughout your journeys such as air conditioning and a decent touchscreen. Currently, it's only available with one manual variant, and it's insanely affordable, with its price retailing at just under P600,000.

If there's one hatchback in the Philippines that shouldn't be overlooked, it's the Honda Brio. Armed with great looks and urban maneuverability, the smallest Honda is one value-packed proposition, especially with its plethora of safety and security features. Even the entry-level S MT variant comes in with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, immobilizer, and a keyless entry system.

The Brio is also one of the more powerful small hatchbacks you can buy, coming out of its 1.2-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine that produces 89 hp and 110 Nm of torque. Buyers are given the choice of pairing its engine with a 5-speed manual or a CVT. Both the S MT and V CVT sit under the P700,000 price range.

Now, if you're interested in any of the hatchbacks listed above 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.