In the market for your first set of four wheels? Is buying your first car on your 2025 bucket list? Look no further, we got you covered.
Before we get started, a note of praise for the Toyota Vios and the Mitsubishi Mirage. These two cars have stood the test of time, and rightfully garnered the praise of Filipino drivers. The Vios and the Mirage have been cost-friendly, relatively comfortable, and definitely reliable for years. These are no-brainer options for first time car buyers.
Which is why we left them off this list—you’re probably considering them already. What we have prepared are five cars that are slightly unconventional, but are still all-around great options for those ready to make the purchase. We’ve taken cues from the Vios and the Mirage, and gave them a modern twist. Plus a bonus option if you’ve got a little more money to play around with.
1) Kia Sonet
The Kia Sonet was our underrated car of the year back in 2024, and we’ve got the review to prove it. The Sonet is a stylish, and comfortable crossover that starts at just P888,000. It’s an ideal starter car for someone who just got their license, and needs a brand-new daily driver.
2) BYD Seal 5 DM-i
This is not our bonus car, that comes at the end of this list. The BYD Seal 5 DM-i surprised us through and through during its launch back in November last year. It starts at just P948,000, and guarantees a 1,000km driving range on a hybrid powertrain. It’s a modern choice for new drivers, or even those picking out their first new energy vehicle.
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3) Mazda 2
The Mazda 2 is a great first car for JDM gearheads, as it is actually made in Japan. The car looks timeless, and it stands firm as one of the few hatchbacks remaining in the Philippine market. Starting at P1,250,000, the Mazda 2 is a modern classic that you can daily.
4) Mitsubishi XForce
While MPVs are dominating Philippine streets, crossovers aren’t too far behind. The Mitsubishi XForce has been making a name for itself in the competitive crossover segment. It’s got a distinct look, a dynamic driving experience, and starts at a decent P1,367,000.
5) Toyota Yaris Cross
At the end of the day it all boils down to what you need out of your ride. And more often than not, the Toyota Yaris Cross can accommodate whatever you need. It starts at a friendly P1,204,000, and tops out with a hybrid powertain in case you’re looking for one.
Bonus: Honda Civic e:HEV
This one is more of an emotional pick, as we simply couldn’t leave it out. If you have a more flexible budget, then there may not be a better and more reasonable reward than the Honda Civic RS e:HEV. It drives like butter, can zoom like crazy, and gets around 16km/L—insane. The Honda Civic RS e:HEV would make a great first car, kicking off a love affair with driving and car ownership that may springboard into buying a second, and third, and so on.
