Best SUV Philippines That You Should Check Out (2022 Edition)

Updated Dec 28, 2022 | Same topic: Best Advice for Car Buyers

Who said SUVs can't be fuel efficient? Check out this list of best SUV Philippines.

When we’re talking about fuel efficiency, we can’t expect much from an SUV as this type of vehicle comes with large interior space and engine displacement which add weight. And as we all know, the heavier the load, the harder the engine has to work to keep the vehicle moving forward, resulting in consuming more fuel. So many might think that finding the best SUV Philippines that is fuel-efficient is a difficult task.

But thanks to advancements in engine technologies, some SUVs can now be fuel efficient even when compared to an economy car. Moreover, most fuel-efficient SUVs in the Philippines are powered by a diesel powertrain which is generally considered more fuel-efficient than a gasoline engine.

To help you gather the options you need in looking for an efficient SUV, we have listed down five of them below. Take note that the fuel efficiency of a vehicle can still depend on various factors such as your driving style, the road condition, and the number of passengers you normally tag along with you.

1. Toyota Fortuner – 15.5 km/l (combined)

There are good reasons why the Toyota Fortuner is the best diesel SUV Philippines for quite some time now. One of which is its performance capabilities that involve power and fuel efficiency in comparison to its rivals in the local 7-seater midsize SUV segment.

Toyota Fortuner front view

The new Toyota Fortuner LTD flagship variant

According to Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), the official business unit of Toyota in the country, the latest version of its midsize SUV entry launched last 2020 is more fuel-efficient by five percent as compared to the previous model. This is should help the model solidify its name as a fuel-efficient SUV in the market.

The Toyota Fortuner offers a 20 km/l fuel consumption on the highway, while 11 km/l in the city. These numbers make the midsize SUV one of the best in its segment in terms of fuel efficiency. Plus, it is a Toyota so you can expect the utmost reliability in the long run.

2021 Toyota Fortuner Review: Still the King of SUVs? | Philkotse Philippines

Under the hood, TMP is offering this vehicle two engine options. The first engine option is a 2.4-liter diesel engine that can generate 148 hp and 400 Nm of torque. The other engine option is the more powerful 2.8-liter diesel engine which can now make 201 hp and a whopping 500 Nm of torque.

>>>  Related: Toyota Fortuner 2021 price Philippines

2. Ford Everest – 14 km/l (combined)

The only American fuel-efficient SUV on this list is the Ford Everest. Perhaps the most rational explanation as to why this 7-seater midsize SUV is considered a fuel-efficient SUV is because of its small engines. These engines are some of the smallest of all of the diesel SUVs in the Philippines for 2022.

Ford Everest front view

An entry from the Blue Oval Company

Ford Philippines is offering three engine options for its midsize SUV, namely the 2.2-liter diesel, 2.0-liter single turbo diesel, and 2.0-liter Bi-turbo diesel engine. The Ford Everest can make 160 hp to 213 hp and 385 Nm of torque to 500 Nm of torque, depending on the variant.

When tested on the road, the Everest yields 19 km/l fuel consumption on the highway and 9 km/l in the city. Its relatively fuel-efficient characteristic is what makes this 7-seater midsize SUV one of the best family SUVs in the Philippines as families can use this on long road trips.

Ford Everest rear view

The Ford Everest is one of the best SUV in the Philippines. 

As for pricing, the Ford Everest starts at Php 1,738,000 for the base 2.2L Trend variant and goes up to Php 2,299,000 for the flagship Bi-Turbo Titanium+ variant. For the Titanium variant that comes with a single turbo only, the Blue Oval Company is offering it at Php 1,995,000.

>>> Related: Ford Everest 2021 Price Philippines

3. Isuzu mu-X – 13.5 km/l (combined)

The Isuzu mu-X is one of the most practical diesel SUVs in the Philippines for 2022. Part of the said feat is its affordability and relatively fuel-efficient engine offered by the model’s baseline variant, the mu-X RZ4E 1.9, which starts at Php 1,350,000 only.

Isuzu mu-X front view

An SUV worth considering to be the bét SUV in Philippines. 

Moreover, the base variant is powered by a 1.9-liter inline-4 RZ4E Bluepower turbodiesel which is the smallest in terms of engine displacement in its class. And with a small engine, it generally means that it is more fuel-efficient than engines with a larger displacement.

As for its fuel-efficiency ratings, the Isuzu mu-X can return 18 km/l on the highway and 9 km/l in the city. The engine can be paired to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, depending on the variant.

>>> Related: ISUZU CROSSWIND 2013 FOR SALE

Isuzu mu-X front view

The Isuzu mu-X helped grow the brand's business network alongside the D-Max

If you want a more powerful version of the 7-seater midsize SUV, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), the official distributor of Isuzu vehicles in the country, is also offering a larger 3.0-liter inline-4 turbodiesel engine that can generate 175 hp and 380 Nm of torque.

4. Nissan Terra – 12 km/l (combined)

Nissan’s entry to the local midsize SUV is also joining the most fuel-efficient SUV list. Despite it being a relatively new model, the Nissan Terra has already made an impact among Filipino car buyers who want a family vehicle that can comfortably seat up to seven passengers.

Nissan Terra front view

One of the best SUV cars Philippines.

As for its performance capabilities, this vehicle has a fuel efficiency rating of 16 km/l on the highway and 8 km/l in the city. Not bad considering the sheer size the Terra offers for those in the market for an SUV. It is longer and wider than most of its rivals including the Toyota Fortuner, Isuzu mu-X, and Mitsubishi Montero Sport.

The Nissan Terra is powered by a 2.5-liter YD25 DDTi inline-4 turbodiesel engine that is capable of generating 190 hp and 450 Nm of torque. Depending on the variant, the model can be coupled to either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic transmission that comes with a manual mode.

Nissan Terra front view

The Terra is one of the best SUV diesel Philippines. 

Exclusive to the 2.5L VL AT 4x4 flagship variant is the 4WD System that can be controlled with its transfer select switch. If you want the setting that gives you the best fuel economy, you should switch to the 2WD rear-wheel drive which is suitable for daily driving conditions.

The Terra also made it to the list of best SUV Philippines 2020

5. Mitsubishi Montero Sport – 11 km/l (combined)

The last fuel-efficient SUV on this list is Mitsubishi Motor Philippines Corporation (MMPC)’s entry to the local 7-seater midsize SUV segment, the Montero Sport. It comes with an aggressive and bold exterior look that demands a commanding presence on the road.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport front view

A strong entry from the Japanese car brand that also makes it to the list of the best SUV in the Philppines.

We took the Japanese SUV out on the road to see what it can offer in terms of fuel efficiency. On the highway, it recorded 15 km/l at an average speed of 80 km/h, while in the city, it recorded 7 km/l in the city with an average speed of 7 km/h.

The numbers are delivered by the model’s standard 2.4-liter inline-4 diesel engine with Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) that can make 179 hp and 430 Nm of torque. It can be coupled to either a 6-speed manual for the base GLX variant and an 8-speed automatic transmission with sports mode for the rest of the variants.

2022 Mitsubishi Montero Sport GT Review: Feature-packed SUV for the family

In addition, the top-of-the-line GT variant comes with a Super Select 4WD-II that can alter the drivetrain configuration. For the most fuel-efficient setting, you should switch the Super Select 4WD-II to the 2H setting unless you are off-roading or driving through rain.

6. Chevrolet Trailblazer

The Trailblazer is Chevrolet's entrance into the midsize SUV sector. It comes with a 2.8-liter diesel engine produces 200 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. It is an undervalued option in the market, with ample space to transport a complete family and the ability to handle large cargo.

Chevrolet Trailblazer.

7. Nissan Patrol Royale

The Nissan Patrol Royale is the epitome of the Japanese manufacturer's experience in creating off-road vehicles that are also elegant. The Patrol Royale remains a luxurious cruiser with plenty of interior space and convenience features. It is currently Nissan's largest SUV for the Philippine market, and it is positioned above the midsized Terra. It's also worth noting that the Patrol Royale is one of the few SUVs with a V8 gasoline engine on the market.

Nissan Patrol Royale.

8. Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition is another gasoline-powered option. Aside from its powerful 3.5-liter 60-degree V6 EcoBoost engine, the Expedition comes with a collection of premium features that make it a 5-star ride. Most significantly, its massive dimensions translate to a massive cabin that will please your guests while also accommodating your freight loading requirements.

Ford Expedition.

That is the end of our list for the best SUV Philippines that is fuel-efficient. Visit Philkotse.com for more of the latest in the automotive industry.

Know more about Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2024

Mitsubishi Montero Sport

One of the popular midsize SUVs in the Philippines is the Montero Sport by Japanese auto giant Mitsubishi. It continually hits the list of best-selling cars in the country every year. Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2024 price in the Philippines is quite good, ranging from PHP 1,568,000 to PHP 2,567,000 with a lot of variants. Powering this midsize SUV is a 2.4-liter 4N15 inline-4 Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) that makes 179 hp and 430 Nm of torque. It can send power to all four wheels via either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic with Sports Mode. The Montero Sport spans 4,825 mm in length, 1,815 mm in width, and 1,835 mm in height. Currently, this Mitsubishi vehicle is competing against the Toyota Fortuner, Isuzu mu-X, and Ford Everest.

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport, as a third-generation model, displays its benchmark for the brand's contemporary lineup, which is the 'Dynamic Shield' grille that shows a completely redesigned front. Similar to the model it replaced, the Mitsubishi Montero Sport is L200 or Strada pickup based. The chassis and half of its front body structure are the same as its pickup sibling. It still uses the three-link live axle coil spring for the rear suspension and the independent double-wishbone front suspension from the model it supersedes. The full list of Mitsubishi Montero Sport for sale of car dealers on Philkotse.com gets 82 results, you can take a look to make a wise choice yourself.

7 things we like about Mitsubishi Montero Sport | Philkotse Reviews

>>> New and used Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2024 for sale in the Philippines

Mitsubishi Montero Sport Launch

The first-generation Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2024 pickup-based SUV debuted in 1996 in Japan. It was formerly called the Challenger. It was only in early 2005 that the model reached the Philippines. The very first Mitsubishi Montero Sport in Philippine-spec was the modified model that features a split grille in Olivier Boulay-design. In 2008, the second-generation model arrived that was pickup-based like before, longer and came with seats in the third row that added extra seating capacity from five to now seven seats. In early 2016, it was then replaced by the latest third-generation model.

The Mitsubishi Philippines launched the third-generation Mitsubishi Montero Sport replacing its predecessors in terms of power, refinement, and style. On October 4, 2019, the refreshed Mitsubishi Montero Sport was introduced in the Philippines to provide the top-selling SUV with its updated look.

Later in 2022, the marque introduced the all-new Montero Sport Black Series Ralliart Edition at the 8th Philippine International Motor Show. 

Mitsubishi Montero Sport Exterior

The 'Dynamic Shield’ design language helps in projecting a futuristic concept for the Mitsubishi Montero Sport Philippines. The front end has enough amount of chrome, intensely edgy and sharp. At the top grille part, two short strips of chrome are present. The chrome strips also outline the bumper's side surfaces and finish descending lower near the fog lamps. The projector headlamps are also attractive and sleek.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport exterior

Its roofline is properly crafted, enabling it to thin down the windows more. The overhangs of the rear are more extended, making the wheelbase shorter. The tail lights touch the bumper on the back and are upright long. The registration number is ingrained on the trunk lid, and the exhaust time is immersed in chrome.
The Montero Sport measures 4,825mm long, 1,815mm wide, the wheelbase measures 2,800mm, and 218mm of ground clearance.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport Interior

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport Philippines employed a simple-to-operate straight-forward dashboard. The dashboard is mainly composed of materials such as piano-black plastics, polyurethane, and satin chrome plastics. Leather seats for range-toppers come with motorized adjustments.  The Mitsubishi Montero Sport has plenty of space and has an expandable cargo volume because of its configurable seats. Using a specific function available only to the model, the third row is capable of being folded flat onto the floor, thus, creating a big cargo space.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport seats

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport also features front seats that are highly driver-centric with a supportive backrest. The seats in the second row are adjustable and can be shifted slightly forward to provide additional legroom in the last row when the third row is moved backward.

Technology & Safety Features

The GT variant is equipped with an infotainment system, two 8-inch LCD located on the instrument cluster, an Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a power tailgate. The GT and GLS variants both feature reverse sensors, the Tomtom navigation, and the reverse camera. Cruise control is also included, which comes as a standard.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport steering wheel

Safety features that come as a standard are the Brake Override, ABS with EBD, dual front airbags, side-impact beams, ISOFIX child seat tethers, and speed-sensing door locks. On the other hand, both GLS and GT variants are equipped with stability and traction control, extra four airbags, trailer stability control, hill descent control, and hill start, and brake assists.
In 2016, the Mitsubishi Montero Sport Philippines garnered a 5-star rating in ASEAN NCAP for adult occupancy protection and a 4-star rating for child occupancy protection.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport Platform & Chassis

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport Philippines rides on a ladder-frame chassis, available in four-wheel-drive and rear-wheel configurations. It is a five-door midsize SUV sitting on the KR/KS/QE platform. It has a double-wishbone suspension with coil springs and a stabilizer bar at the front and 3-link coil springs with a stabilizer bar at the rear end. All its wheels are equipped with disc brakes.

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport can accommodate seven occupants and has an automatic transmission available. Moreover, depending on the fuel type and variant, the model has a 17.40 km/L fuel consumption on the highway. 

Mitsubishi Montero Sport Engine & Drivetrain

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport Philippines is powered by a 2.4L four-cylinder engine with the addition of the turbocharged formula, giving it a bit more power. A maximum of 78 horsepower can be put out by its diesel motor, which can be considered adequate for its range. The engine can produce a torque power of up to 430 Nm, which can mean better power performance even on rough roads, and is capable of pulling off a tremendous amount of load.

The midsize SUV, when fully loaded, can put up a total of nine kilometers using a liter of diesel in and about the city. And can provide the utmost of 13 km/L on the highway. With its prices not exceeding the Php2-million mark, its engine can be quite surprising.

Available colors for the Mitsubishi Montero Sport Philippines are Sterling Silver Metallic, Medium Red, Graphite Gray Metallic, Jet Black Mica, and White Diamond.

Without a doubt, the Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a decent choice in the local midsize SUV market. It offers the lowest power numbers as compared to segment rivals with 179 hp and 430 Nm of torque. Rivals such as the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Everest 2024 can generate as much as 500 Nm of torque. However, the Mitsubishi SUV makes up for it thanks to its impressive driving dynamics. The 8-speed automatic transmission provides a smooth ride. Also, the MIVEC technology, which is the world's first, improves power delivery and fuel efficiency. Only the Mitsubishi Montero Sport and Ford Everest get to benefit from a sunroof.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2024 Price List

Variants  Price
Mitsubishi Montero Sport GLX 2.4 4x2 MT ₱1,568,000
Mitsubishi Montero Sport GLX 2.4 4x2 MT (White Diamond) ₱1,583,000
Mitsubishi Montero Sport GLS 2.4 4x2 AT ₱1,899,000
Mitsubishi Montero Sport GLS 2.4 4x2 AT (White Diamond) ₱1,914,000
Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2.4 Black Series 4x2 AT ₱2,162,000
Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2.4 Black Series 4x2 AT (White Diamond) ₱2,177,000
Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2.4 Black Series 4x4 AT ₱2,502,000
Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2.4 Black Series 4x4 AT (White Diamond) ₱2,517,000

Mitsubishi Montero Sport Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Rugged exterior stance
  • Impressive powertrain
  • Good cabin space

Cons

  • Interior isn't as plush as exterior
  • Power is low numbers-wise compared to rivals
  • Reverse camera resolution can be improved

Mitsubishi Montero Sport FAQs

1. How much is a new Mitsubishi Montero Sport?

The price varies from P1,568,000 to P2,341,000 for four different Mitsubishi Montero Sport variants. The entry-level is the GLX 2.4 4x2 MT, while the most advanced is the GT 2.4 4x4 AT.

2. Is the Mitsubishi Montero Sport reliable?

Of course. The Mitsubishi Montero engine is powerful and quiet with a smooth gearbox. In addition, the car provides good visibility, a small turning radius, and a great steering feel. Thus, it feels quite comfortable driving down the street.

3. Is the Mitsubishi Montero Sport good for off-road?

Absolutely yes, the off-road capability on the new Montero Sport is enhanced with Terrain mode. With each operating mode, the system will fine-tune the engine performance, accelerator pedal sensitivity, and ESC electronic stability control system to make the car overcome all kinds of harsh terrain.

4. Does the Montero have a reverse camera?

Yes, it does. The Mitsubishi Montero Sport is equipped with keyless entry, reverse sensors, and a camera.

5. What type of car is the Montero Sport?

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a 7-seater midsize SUV that provides high performance and a great steering feel.

 

₱ 1,568,000 - ₱ 2,366,000

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Rex Sanchez

Rex Sanchez

Author

Rex Sanchez grew up in Saudi Arabia where he saw and got into the automotive scene. He started his career for an aviation company in the said region, writing about turbines and rotors which are later distributed for educational purposes. And now, he joined Philkotse.com as a staff writer. Currently, he is the youngest on the team and is more than ready to grow in the field.

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