Volkswagen Santana GTS
P 1,029,000Flexible & Timeless – The Santana GTS marries the practicality of a wagon with the size advantage of a subcompact.
Volkswagen Philippines underwent a monumental change to its lineup in the country a few years ago. What the company has done since they have made the switch to SAIC-produced models is completely change what they offer to Filipinos at a lower price point – a German-designed automobile for the same price as a Japanese one. In this episode of Behind the Wheel, we present the most affordable wagon, The Santana GTS, it’s a “Volkswagon” for all.
Designed to be very straightforward, the Santana GTS has simple lines that are very German and direct to the point. Slats for the grille, headlamps that work, tail lamps that also work, and four wheels; two of which are receiving power from the engine. It is quite possibly one of the most simply styled subcompacts to date, and did we mention that it is also a wagon. So, no, it isn’t a hatchback. Don’t ever call it a hatchback.
Similar to its sedan counterpart, the GTS dons the same general interior that mimics the exterior. It cuts to the chase and isn’t overly styled. Of note, however, is the faux carbon fiber trim paired with red accents throughout the cabin. It also features a flat bottomed steering wheel and a cruise control button layout that you may need to get used to.
Couple that with its frugal 1.5L MPI engine and 6-speed automatic, and you’ll be humming along nicely to the tune of your engine as well as the optional Blaupunkt infotainment system if you fancy it. At 108 hp, and 150 Nm of torque, you’ll be running swimmingly through the streets and highways of the Philippines, and of course, you can take your whole family and all of their luggage if need be.
The Santana GTS is the perfect family car for those who want straightforward German styling in a practical body style. The Santana GTS is the most affordable wagon in the Philippines, coming in at P998,000, it almost touches the one million peso mark, but it brings with it space and value that is only enhanced by its extended roofline.
Flexible & Timeless – The Santana GTS marries the practicality of a wagon with the size advantage of a subcompact.
The 2019 Santana GTS is Volkswagen's most affordable wagon in its Philippine lineup.
The Honda Brio is here for another episode of Behind the Wheel, and it is surprisingly good for its class, price point, and size.
On this episode of Behind the Wheel, we take the new XE variant of the Toyota Vios for review to find out if it’ll be worth your hard-earned Philippine Pesos.
MG Philippines celebrates a strong 2024 with record sales performance.
Volkswagen’s Golf R was showcased at TAS 2025, and we can’t help but hope that this thing eventually makes its way to the Philippines.
Volkswagen reveals the latest electric SUV, the ID.UNYX, offering two trims with impressive ranges.
Volkswagen is entering the race to make an affordable electric vehicle with its latest initiative, Project TinyCar.
Although hot hatchbacks aren’t popular in the Philippines, the upcoming Golf GTI Clubsport makes us wish they were.
Big, bold, and powerful, the 2025 BYD Shark 6 DMO is the brand's apex predator whether on or off road. With a strong powertrain with 429 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque combined, the electri...
Tokyo Auto Salon week is always a time for car enthusiasts in and out of Japan. Earl decided to go on a trip with his friends to check out the scene and experience driving around Japan once...
The all-new Audi Q6 e-tron is now in the Philippines! The latest EV from the German manufacturer boasts a whole host of new technology and advanced driver assist systems. Paired with a strik...