Top 10 Cars for Philippine roads and driving conditions

Driving on Philippine roads can really test a car's limits. Think about the endless traffic, bumpy roads, and sudden floods—it's tough and quite tricky on any vehicle. That's why many people stick to car brands they know can handle the wear and tear.

So, how do you pick the right car? Where do you even begin in selecting the best fit for such a list of demands? What models can truly handle everything from really tight road corners to bumpy rural streets in the Philippines? You'll need a car that's not just tough but also checks the boxes for fuel efficiency, space for both passengers and cargo and, of course, fits your budget. Let's take a look at the top 10 cars that might be perfect for these challenges and for you.

Starting off the list with the Philippine favorite Toyota Vios. Why settle for less when you can have this tried-and-true vehicle? Available with either a 1.3-liter or a 1.5-liter engine, the Vios delivers sufficient power for all types of drivers without being overly aggressive, making it ideal for the streets and open highways of the Philippines. Its fuel efficiency is another huge plus for both everyday rides and longer trips, making sure you get the most out of every liter of fuel.

Despite its lower ground clearance, which might challenge flood-prone areas, the Vios remains an icon on Philippine roads due to its reliability. It's built locally and made for local tastes and conditions, which explains its unchanging popularity. The interior might not be fancy like some competitors, but the Vios excels where it counts: dependability and cost-effectiveness.

If you have ever come across Chinese cars, then you might have heard about the Changan CS35 Plus. It's making quite the noise for good reasons. In contrast with the Toyota Vios, the subcompact crossover offers high ground clearance that makes it capable of handling the unexpected potholes and floods common in the Philippines. It's equipped with a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 7-speed DCT, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience that's also fuel-efficient.

The biggest benefit, however, that really sets the CS35 Plus apart from its competitors is its price-to-feature ratio. You get a vehicle that's easy to manage in tight spots, comfortable for family trips, and filled with features like adaptive cruise control—all without breaking the bank. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking for great value in a compact package.

Now,if you are looking for a family-friendly vehicle that won't let you down, the Suzuki XL7 Hybrid might just be your best bet. With its 1.5-liter engine, the XL7 is economical, making it perfect for driving city and country excursions without frequent fuel stops. It’s built to handle the rougher sides of Philippine roads with a higher ride height compared to its cousin, the Ertiga.

Inside, the XL7 offers ample space with three rows of seats, making it a comfortable option for families. Its features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support will let you stay connected no matter where you drive. If you need a car that has both practicality with the durability to withstand local driving conditions, the XL7 should be on your list.

If we're talking about cars for Philippine roads, we can't miss out on this Filipino family favorite, the Mitsubishi Xpander. The model combines the usefulness of an MPV with the trendiness of an SUV, giving a spacious interior and high ground clearance ideal for driving through flood-prone areas in the country. Its 1.5-liter engine is adjusted for efficiency, making sure that your fuel budget stretches further, whether you're on school runs or weekend getaways.

Moreover, the Xpander's updated design and inclusion of modern tech features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay make it a contemporary choice that keeps pace with your lifestyle. Known for its reliability and ease of driving, the Xpander continues to be a preferred choice for those needing a good and economical family car.

Moving on to the future, or futuristic-looking vehicle, rather, the Hyundai is next on the list that offers exceptional space and comfort. Ideal for large families or small businesses, the Staria's modern design and extensive cabin make it a standout choice. Its 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine guarantees powerful performance while being economical on long trips, making it perfect for Philippine highways and city roads alike.

What's more, the Staria comes in several configurations, including a passenger and a cargo variant, offering flexibility for different needs. Its advanced safety features and spacious interior make it a top contender for anyone looking for a van that combines style with functionality.

If you think a luxury minivan is out of reach, think again. The Kia Carnival, often compared to the pricier Toyota Alphard, offers a plush experience at a more accessible price point. This "Grand Utility Vehicle" comes with a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine known for its fuel efficiency and robust performance, ideal for long family trips without frequent fuel stops.

Inside, the Carnival brags features usually found in more expensive models, like captains' chairs and expansive legroom, providing comfort even in heavy traffic. If you value a car that has a touch of luxury with practicality, making every journey enjoyable, the Carnival is hard to overlook.

Let's talk about something new and improved. The Ford Territory has been updated with Philippine roads in mind. With a high ground clearance and a newly improved interior, it's made to take on both the city roads and rural tracks. The latest model comes with a powerful engine upgrade, now producing 161 hp, and a dual-clutch transmission for smoother rides.

The Territory is also packed with features like a 360-degree camera and adaptive cruise control, making it a top choice for families needing a reliable and comfortable vehicle. Its spacious interior and modern amenities provide it's a pleasure to drive, no matter the destination.

A truck that probably does it all (which explains its long-standing popularity), the Ford Ranger is a strong pickup made for the Philippine roads. With 235 mm of ground clearance and the ability to wade through 800 mm of water, it’s assembled to handle challenging roads while offering a comfortable ride. Its 2.0-liter Bi-Turbo diesel engine delivers 210 hp and 500 Nm of torque, providing ample power for towing and hauling.

Despite its size, the Ranger is equipped with features that sweeten its maneuverability, like a 360-degree camera. So, regardless if you will use it for work or weekend adventures, the Ranger is a good companion that has strength with advanced technology, making it a favorite among Filipino drivers.

If you are looking for a crossover that ticks all the boxes, the Toyota Corolla Cross is really the game-changer in the compact crossover segment, with Toyota’s reliable engineering with a hybrid powertrain. The model offers an exceptional balance of space, comfort, and fuel efficiency, making it perfect for both city driving and weekend escapes.

The Corolla Cross stands out with its high ground clearance and smooth ride, completed by a quiet hybrid engine that excels in fuel economy. It’s the ideal choice for those who want a dependable, eco-friendly vehicle that doesn’t compromise on style or comfort, and of course, not heavy on the wallet when it comes to fuel. 

For many people, the perfect size car would probably be somewhere in between a subcompact and a compact crossover. Tall, but not too wide and long, the Nissan Kicks is a perfect entry for the Philippine market, but it offers consumers an X-factor that no other brand currently has, and that’s the e-Power technology. The technology allows the car to be powered by an electric motor, using a gasoline engine only to generate electricity, making sure you get a quieter, smoother ride.

Not to discount the other models that offer hybrid technology, but Nissan’s execution is one of the most novel and most “EV-like” of all. With the system, you’re propelled thanks to the electric motors, and not because of the gasoline engine, and that’s one of its highlights. It performs exceptionally well in traffic, and it does great on the highway, getting up to 100 km/h quickly and efficiently. Oh, and the fuel economy? Definitely going to be lower than what you’re used to, so you can save a buck and get on board with the electric trend in the market. 

If you're tired of worrying about how your car will hold up on challenging local roads, you're not alone. We've all been there. That's why we've put together a list of 10 cars that are perfect for dealing with everything about driving on Philippine roads. If you are still looking to check out more options, you may head over to AutoDeal and grab a quote for your next car.