The 10 Best Used Cars Under PHP250,000

Today’s cars may be better than ever, but they are also more expensive than ever. With even the most decent small cars rarely going below the P500,000 mark, it’s a wonder how the minimum-wage earning Juan dela Cruz could ever afford them. If you can relate, then consider it good news that our country has a sizable used car market filled with affordable options for you. Now all you have to do is find the best ones in the bunch, and with that, Carmudi presents to you the top ten used cars below PHP250,000.

1. Mitsubishi Mirage

 

The Mitsubishi Mirage has come a long way since it was unveiled in 2012. Despite its humble beginnings as an entry-level urban driver, it’s got that well-known Mitsubishi dependability backing it up. So even if you’re looking at a used first-gen Mirage, you know you’ve got a quality car in your hands.

 

2. Honda Civic

During the 90s and 2000s, many considered the Honda Civic to be the best sedan in the market. Guess what, those bestselling cars now cost a fraction of what they used to. A 1990s Honda Civic is inexpensive to keep filled with gas, and the model is widely known for its reliability. Don’t shy away in case the odometer reading reaches beyond the hundred thousand, as this sedan can easily turn over a quarter of a million kilometers before needing any serious repairs.

3. Kia Pride

The Kia Pride was a ubiquitous taxi option during its heyday, so its reputability is all but guaranteed. Ride quality and handling is decent as well for both hatchback and mini sedan versions. That said, it’s best to avoid ex-taxi units to ensure your investment is well-spent.

4. Mazda 323

If you’re looking for a hatchback or city car under P250,000, then a 1990s Mazda 323 fits the bill. This compact driver is not only immensely practical and great in urban settings, but it also manages to offer a pretty solid drive. Look for seventh generation 323s (1994-1998) as these cars tend to be reliable, and surprisingly, well-taken-care of. The design has certainly aged well, and this includes those from the sixth generation. If you want a sedan version, you can go with the equally capable and equally cheap Mazda 626.

5. Mitsubishi Lancer

 

The Mitsubishi Lancer’s popularity as a mid-size four-door family sedan means that inventory is plentiful. Supply often exceeds demand for a used Mitsubishi Lancer, particularly the Mirage-based models belonging to the third generation, which lasted from 1988 to 2000. This means that you can easily find a great deal on an older Lancer for not much more than a beginner driver would pay in yearly insurance premiums on a new model.

6. Hyundai Eon

The Hyundai Eon maybe small in stature, but in terms of features, it has a lot to offer. Range toppers come with electric-powered gadgetry such as front power windows, and central locking. And pound-for-pound, it offers one of the best mileages around. The Eon’s design has also aged well, with even the first-gen units managing to fit in with today’s design standards.

7. Toyota Corolla

It’s looks utterly plain and ordinary in every way, but if there are two things that the Toyota brand has going for it, it’s affordability and dependability. The 1990s Toyota Corolla practically defined basic transportation, that’s why it was the number one selling car for pretty much that entire decade. Though unremarkable, it’s frugal fuel consumption and acceptable driving dynamics make it a good in-between car for while you’re saving up for that future Toyota Camry.

8. Toyota Tamaraw

The Toyota Tamaraw’s charm lies in its workhorse pedigree and ability to carry as many as 10 passengers, all for a very, very, very (repeat seven more times) low price. Choose the diesel variant and you get a family or business hauler that’s easily within your means to operate. Though it may be difficult, you may still find a Tamaraw out there that didn’t experience heavy use. Choose the ones with the lowest mileage to keep repair costs low down the road.

9. Toyota Avanza

With the Tamaraw’s aging looks, it was definitely time for Toyota to come up with an MPV with a more contemporary design. Enter the Avanza, Toyota’s new workhorse model. The range of variants is what makes this MPV used car worth considering. Quite simply, there’s one for every budget. So whether your looking to ferry your family or haul cargo for your business, you can easily find an Avanza to suit your needs.

10. Volkswagen Polo

The Volkswagen Polo is an obvious answer to the ‘under P250,000’ inquiry. With its solid mix of fun and enjoyment, not to mention the minimal headache offered by its build, you’d be wrong not to include this German car in your short list. Granted, the Polo will likely lean on the more expensive end of the cost spectrum, but you’ll be rewarded for the extra cost.

Updated on July 16, 2020

Also read:

4 Best Sedans for the Money this 2020

Cheapest Cars in the Philippines You Can Use as Taxi or Ride Sharing Service: 2018 Edition