Cheapest Cars in the Philippines: 2018 Edition

The Tax Reformation for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law took effect last January 1, which spelled price increases for many car brands and their models. Fortunately though, due to the complicated nature of the law, the cost of some models remained unchanged while some even saw a price drop. For those looking to buy a brand-new car, it helps to know your options for your specific price range and budget. If you're looking for the cheapest options out there, CARMUDI has got you covered. Below are nine of the most affordable brand-new cars for sale in the local market.

BAIC MZ40 Cargo – PHP488,000

The MZ40 is BAIC’s smallest multi-purpose van. It’s powered by a compact A12 1.2-liter in-line four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission that produces 80hp and 108 Nm of torque. The MZ40 comes in three variants, and the Cargo is the cheapest of the bunch.

Chery QQ3 – PHP499,000

The latest generation of the QQ3 features a very similar look as the BYD F0, especially at the back where both cars feature an all-glass rear hatch. There’s no obvious reason for the similarities in appearance though, except that both cars are Chinese-made. Under the hood of the QQ3 is a 1.0-liter inline three-cylinder gas engine married to a five-speed manual transmission that delivers 69 hp and 93 Nm peak torque.

FOTON Gratour Dropside – PHP485,000

The Dropside is the commercial version of Foton's popular Gratour Minivan. Think of the Dropside as a reverse mullet--party in the front, business in the back. While the Minivan was a multipurpose people hauler, this one is definitely for cargo. The 1.2-liter engine and five-speed manual transmission pairing yields 85 hp and 112 Nm of torque.

Haima 1 Deluxe – PHP499,000

Another Chinese hatchback makes the list. But while BYD F0 and Chery QQ3 embrace the new, the Haima 1 is more of a throwback, bearing strong similarities to the Daewoo Matiz from the late 90s. The Haima 1 is equipped with a 1.2 liter, 16-valve four-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual transmission. Power output is 91 hp and maximum torque is 112 Nm.

Hyundai Eon 0.8 GLX 5 MT – PHP508,000

Though the 0.8-liter 55-hp engine doesn’t sound like much, the Hyundai Eon is easily the urban driver that you’ve been looking for without knowing it. Granted, it’s an entry-level car, but the no-nonsense approach guarantees you get your money's worth. With its alluring exterior lines and a decently configured cabin, the Eon certainly doesn’t disappoint.

Lifan 320 Ex – PHP498,000

Dubbed 'the poor man's MINI,' it’s no secret that this subsequent Chinese make is inspired by the iconic English-German brand. The 320 Ex comes with an economic 1.3-liter gas engine and a five-speed manual transmission combo that produces 84 hp and 110 Nm of torque.

Lifan 520 DX – PHP498,000

A sedan that barely breaks the half-mil mark? Lifan has got you covered. Enjoy an acceptable 87 hp and 115 Nm of torque when ferrying your entire family, courtesy of a 1.3-liter engine paired with a five-speed manual gearbox.

Mitsubishi Mirage GLX MT – PHP630,000

A hatchback that just gets better and better with every iteration—that’s the Mitsubishi Mirage GLX in a nutshell. At this price range, it’s surprising how the Mirage GLX manages to be so well-appointed (not that we’re complaining). A well-built solid interior courtesy of Mitsubishi's Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) means that the Mirage GLX is one of the safest small cars out there. And you can never go wrong with the 1.2-liter, 78 hp engine.

Suzuki Alto 800 Standard – PHP445,000

It's brand-new, it's basic. It doesn't get any clearer than that. If you can get past the dated design (the 800s platform dates back to the late 90s), then you got yourself a perfectly serviceable car. Powered by a 0.8-liter engine and five-speed manual pairing, the Alto 800 manages a dismal 46 hp and 68 Nm.

Tata Indigo LX – PHP535,000

One of two cars on this list that are NOT made in China, the Tata Indigo LX is proudly Indian-made. We say proudly, because the brand has been steadily growing its quality, and with it, the bottom line. Don't expect much from the Indigo though. That said, the Indigo 1.4-liter diesel engine going for it, so you're assured of cheaper fuel all the way through. A five-speed manual helps the powertrain deliver 70 hp and 135 Nm of torque.

Toyota Wigo 1.0 E – PHP542,000

Europe says 'Aygo,' Philippines says 'Wigo." Regardless of what it's called, all that matters is that Toyota’s diminutive hatchback can 'go.' And go it does, thanks to its inspired 1.0-liter engine that delivers a respectable 65 hp. And it also packs the durability- and efficiency-centered engineering that Toyota is known for.