The same anonymous reader who asked about hybrids just a little while back messaged me again recently, this time for a friend (who also wishes to stay anonymous) who’s in the market for either a.) a new truck or b.) a new hybrid.
“Would you have insights on what would be a better purchase? My friend feels the pickup is more spacious while the hybrid is a sensible purchase for the coding system and fuel economy.” Our would-be car buyer supposedly has a budget of P1.7 million. While that’s quite the purchasing power, that’s also quite the apples-to-oranges comparison. But what the heck, let’s do this.
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Hello, anonymous friend of our anonymous reader—let’s start with the Navara. I’ll be the one to tell you that it’s a very ideal choice in the segment because it’s got a potent turbodiesel engine, great handling, and a relatively nicer ride than most trucks. If you’re going to maximize your budget, you can even opt for the 2.5 VL 4x4 AT variant, which is the highest trim that isn’t a Pro-4X Navara. That gets you subtler and arguably classier styling to go along with a bunch of safety features and off-road capability.
The problem with this option is that I was told you’d have no particular use for the bed and for the 4x4 drivetrain, and you’re considering the Navara because it’s more spacious than the hybrid you’re eyeing. I’ve got an easy answer for you, then: Don’t get a pickup.
If you want more room inside the cabin—I’m guessing that’s what you’re referring to, anyway—then you’re better off getting an SUV because believe me, pickups don’t really offer that much in terms of interior space. The Terra starts at P1.709 million and that better addresses your needs. While that base trim has a manual gearbox, at least you’re still getting the same diesel engine and with two extra seats at the rear as a bonus.
Now, if you’re satisfied with the room inside a pickup, I can also suggest you do away with all the diesel powertrains altogether. You can just get the Kicks instead. It might feel slightly more cramped than the Navara when you’re inside, but it can ferry just as many people, has a proper and secure trunk, and most important, is also a hybrid. The top-of-the-line trim Kicks stickers for P1.539 million—after your purchase, you even have some change for a few aftermarket upgrades here and there. It caters to your needs in terms of space while giving you benefit of coding exemption.
So at this point, this discussion’s starting to look like a hybrid-versus-hybrid given your other option is the Corolla Cross. That’s actually something we’ve already done before, but with an HR-V Turbo on the side—you can check out that Big Test episode here.
Your budget is just enough for a Corolla Cross 1.8 V HEV CVT variant which goes for P1.68 million, so clearly, the sportier-looking GR-S trim isn’t an option. Between that and the SUV I mentioned above, you might be better off getting the Corolla Cross, especially if you’re content with a five-seater. It’s simply more practical than a large diesel-powered machine. This means you can completely disregard the first part of this article, then.
It now boils down to choosing between the Kicks and the Corolla Cross. If you don’t care much about styling, then we can keep this very simple. If you want a roomier and better-looking interior, get the Corolla Cross. If you want more exciting driving dynamics and could also use the cash savings, then get the Kicks e-Power. Simple, right?
My take on all this, though? If you’re not that keen on getting a crossover and are open to buying a sedan, consider the Corolla Altis. The GR-S HEV trim is slightly over budget at P1.73 million, but it’s also just a bit more expensive than the hybrid Corolla Cross. The Altis gives you a better ride, a more exciting drive, and a more comfortable and roomy cabin. Of course, it’s also a hybrid, so it addresses your concerns about coding and fuel consumption.
I hope these suggestions help. If you (or any of our readers, for that matter) have any further questions, feel free to reach out. Good luck with your upcoming purchase!
