Picture this: You now have a family and you need a set of wheels. More specifically, you need a reasonably priced car, one that can easily swallow up people, luggage, and everything your child needs.
Sure, there’s the secondhand market, but it’s not always a guarantee that you’ll get a good example. Besides, a warranty adds that extra layer of peace of mind. At the same time, going for a brand-new car means it’s fresh and free from blemishes, not to mention flexible promos that make it more attainable.
These days, P1.2 million seems like a good budget cap for a new car. Which is why we’re setting the limit at that price point. So, what are some of the cars we recommend under that? Here’s five:
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1) Honda City 1.5 S CVT (P998,000)
We kick things off with a good ol’ sedan. When it comes to interior space efficiency, it’s hard to beat the City. The cabin is a marvel in packaging, offering legroom that rivals bigger cars, crossovers and SUVs included. Add to that a massive 519 liter cargo capacity and it makes you wonder if you really need an SUV.
But those aren’t the only reasons why the City is worth considering. Regardless of variant, all are equipped with Honda Sensing, the brand’s advanced driver assist system. Despite not being electrified, it’s easy on gas, and we have to mention the suspension tuning that’s among the top of its class.
2) Kia Sonet 1.5 EX AT (P998,000)
For those who insist on getting a crossover, we heartily recommend the Kia Sonet. The mid-spec EX is a nice balance of value and features, and it won’t really leave you wishing for more features. Granted, it misses out on the advanced driver assist of the decked-out SX trim, but still well-equipped nonetheless.
It’s then wrapped up in a body that’s stylish and charming. Kia has been nailing it in the design department lately, both for exteriors and interiors. The little Sonet also offers a good ride and even an enjoyable drive for what it is.
3) Nissan Kicks e-Power EL (P1,179,000)
Okay it’s getting a little bit, er, older now, but the original electrified subcompact crossover in the country deserves some attention. That said, we will admit that in its most basic form, the Kicks e-Power won’t spoil you with an avalanche of features. Instead, it will change your perception of just how a fuel-efficient vehicle should be. Anything you try after this will feel like a gas guzzler.
To top it off, it offers peppy performance, solid driving dynamics, and a surprising amount of space given its rakish exterior. If you’re willing to sacrifice a touchscreen for never ever going below 10km/L even in biblical gridlocks, the base Kicks e-Power is worth a shot.
4) Hyundai Stargazer 1.5 GLS IVT (P1,198,000)
So far, all the cars we’ve covered have one thing missing—a third row. So, what’s the top MPV we can suggest for that? Well, it’s none other than our Big Test winner, the Stargazer. In this case, we’re going for the mid-spec GLS. It doesn’t come with advanced driver assists, but regardless of variant, the Stargazer is our pick for a couple of reasons.
For starters, it has perhaps the most spacious second row seats we’ve experienced in a subcompact MPV. The best part is, the third row is actually livable. The egg-like shape also means there’s enough cargo space even with all rows up, a tough feat in a small MPV. We also lauded it for its performance within its class, its fuel economy, as well as its comfort. It may not be the best-selling model in its segment, but the Stargazer will amaze you with its abilities.
5) MG G50 Plus 1.5T Comfort DCT (P1,198,888)
But for those looking for the biggest and most spacious car under P1.2-M, you’d be hard-pressed to pass on the G50 Plus. For starters, it’s larger than an Innova, and the interior volume is far greater than the aforementioned popular Toyota. That means there’s more than enough wiggle room for all eight occupants on board.
Some of you are probably wondering why we’re recommending such a big vehicle for a family that’s just starting out. Well, lolo and lola would like to tag along from time to time too, right? With that much space inside, everyone will be comfortable on that (extended) family road trip.
