9 real SUVs ready for your next outdoor adventure
Updated Mar 10, 2022
Introduction
SUV is something of a cliché for any high-riding vehicle with five doors these days. One might say that it’s a marketing strategy. Another term that should be used more often is crossover, but since it’s a relatively recent moniker and doesn’t quite carry the same cachet as SUV, the latter is used more often.
More than just high riding vehicles
However, there is a huge difference between the two. True SUVs are designed with a ladder frame chassis that offers better off-roading capabilities thanks to its strength, rigidity, and flexibility. Meanwhile, crossovers are finished with a lighter unibody platform which provides a smoother driving experience.
With that being said, SUVs are the better choice if you want to go for outdoor adventures. To know more about vehicles that fall in this category, we have listed down nine of them.
1. Suzuki Jimny
Don’t be surprised if the Suzuki Jimny makes it as an entry on this list. Sure, it does come with small dimensions as compared to other SUVs. But it is still an off-road capable vehicle, thanks to features such as the ladder-frame chassis, AllGrip Pro 4x4 terrain management system, and brake LSD (limited-slip differential) control.
Small yet capable
The interior is equipped with off-road features that allows this relatively small package to conquer any road. These include a clinometer, compass, altimeter, and barometer which are exclusive for the top-of-the-line GLX variant. All these functions are displayed on the vehicle’s 9-inch touchscreen multimedia audio unit.
Know more about Suzuki Jimny 2024
The Suzuki Jimny 2023 is a 4x4, ladder-frame mini-SUV. In the local market, this model is available in three different variants. There’s the GL 1.5 MT, the GLX 1.5 AT (Monotone), and the GLX 1.5 AT (Two-tone). Their prices range from Php 1,258,000 to Php 1,330,000.
Under the hood, the Suzuki Jimny uses a 1.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine capable of producing up to 101 horsepower and 130 Nm of torque. The entry-level GL variant may come with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the GLX exclusively uses a four-speed automatic transmission. All then come with the Suzuki 4x4 All Grip Pro drivetrain.
Size-wise, the Suzuki Jimny has a length of 3,480mm, a width of 1,645mm, and a height of 1,725mm. It then has a wheelbase length of 2,250mm, and a ground clearance of 210mm.
Locally, the Suzuki Jimny technically doesn’t have direct competitors. Then again, the closest off-road-focused recreational vehicles available locally are the Toyota FJ Cruise and the Jeep Wrangler. Size-wise though, the Jimny is more in line with the Hyundai Kona, MG ZS, Geely Coolray, Kia Seltos, Chery Tiggo 2 Pro, and Mazda CX-3, among others.
₱ 1,258,000 - ₱ 1,330,000
Explore2. Nissan Terra
When Nissan Philippines launched the facelifted Terra in the country, it looked like one tough midsize SUV that can drive through off-roads with ease. It sported design changes highlighted by the larger V-Motion grille finish, new quad-LED headlights with auto-leveling function, and a new set of 18-inch wheels.
Nissan is going all out with its lineup including the Terra
With its 2.5-liter turbodiesel engine capable of generating 450 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm, the Nissan Terra can take you to your outdoor adventures even with a full load of passengers. For increased crawling capability on unpredictable terrain, the top-spec VL trim is equipped with a part-time 4WD (2H/4H/4L) system and an electronic locking rear differential.
Know more about Nissan Terra 2024
The Nissan Terra is a midsize, seven-seater SUV. In the Philippines, this model has a total of six variants, the Terra EL, VE, VL 4x2, and VL 4x4, Sport 4x2, and the Sport 4x4. Currently, Nissan Terra 2023 Philippines price ranges from Php 1,709,000 to Php 2,459,000.
The Philippine-spec Terra exclusively uses a 2.5-liter inline-4 turbodiesel engine for all of its trims. At maximum, this engine can churn out 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. Only the VL and Sport has a 4x4 version, while the rest are rear-wheel-drive. In turn, only the entry-level Terra EL can come with a six-speed manual gearbox. The rest of the Terran trims then utilizes a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Size-wise, the Nissan Terra has a length of 4,900mm, a width of 1,865mm, and a height of 1,865mm. It also has a wheelbase length of 2,850mm, as well as a ground clearance of 225mm.
Locally, the 2023 Nissan Terra competes against the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, Isuzu mu-X, Ford Everest, Maxus D90 among others.
₱ 1,709,000 - ₱ 2,459,000
Explore3. Ford Everest
American automaker Ford is known for its capable off-road vehicles, and the Ford Everest is no exception. It features one of the most powerful engines in its class numbers-wise thanks to its 2.0-liter TDCi Bi-turbo diesel engine. This range-topping powertrain is capable of producing 210 hp and 500 Nm of torque.
The Blue Oval company delivers
The said engine is paired with a full-time 4x4 system and an electronic locking rear differential. Meanwhile, the lower Everest variants use a 2.0-liter TDCi single turbo diesel mill that’s good for 178 hp and 420 Nm of torque. It is complemented by an electronic locking rear differential which should be more than enough for most outdoor adventures.
Know more about Ford Everest 2024
The Ford Everest 2024 is a ladder-frame, rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive, midsize, seven-seater SUV. In the Philippine market, this model has four different variants. The Trend 4x2 AT, Sport 4x2 AT, Titanium+ 4x2 AT, and the Titanium+ 4x4 AT. Locally, its price ranges from Php 1,799,000 to Php 2,525,000.
Size-wise, the 2024 Everest is 4,904mm long, 2,201mmwide, and 1,884mm in height. It also has a wheelbase length of 2,900mm, and a ground clearance of 223mm.
Powering the all-new Everest are two engines. For the Titanium+ 4x4, it uses a 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine four-banger capable of outputting 210 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. The rest meanwhile uses a 2.0-liter turbodiesel that can dish out 170 horsepower and 405 Nm of torque. Only the top-spec trim gets a 10-speed automatic gearbox paired with a 4x4 drivetrain. The rest then gets a 4x2 drivetrain and a six-speed automatic transmission.
Locally, the 2024 Ford Everest Philippines competes against the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Nissan Terra, Isuzu mu-X, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, among others.
₱ 1,799,000 - ₱ 2,525,000
Explore4. Jeep Wrangler
If we’re talking about off-roading, there’s no way we can’t forget about the Jeep Wrangler. Tracing its lineage to the original military vehicle that helped the U.S. win the Second World War, the Wrangler is thoroughly designed to storm even the toughest of roads unchallenged. Features such as its Tru-lok front and rear locking axles and a full-time 4WD system helped bolster the Wrangler’s terrain-conquering reputation.
It is born for the off-roads
Under the hood, Jeep Philippines offers the SUV with a 2.0-liter inline-4 DOHC turbodiesel engine that makes 268 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Power is sent to all four-wheel via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Know more about Jeep Wrangler 2024
The Jeep Wrangler 2023 is an off-roader SUV that is considered one of the most iconic in its market, with the 2-door as a compact SUV and the 4-door as a midsize. Jeep Philippines is offering this model with three variants. These are the Unlimited Sahara, Rubicon, and Unlimited Rubicon priced at Php 5,290,000, Php 5,490,000, and Php 5,690,000 respectively.
Powering the Wrangler is a 2.0-liter inline-4 DOHC DI Turbo Engine with an Electronic Start Stop (ESS) function, making 268 hp and 400 Nm of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission is connected to the engine as standard.
Dimensions-wise, the Wrangler is 4,785 mm long, 1,874.52 mm wide, and 1,869 mm high. This American SUV is competing against the likes of the Land Rover Defender and Toyota FJ Cruiser in the local market.
₱ 5,290,000 - ₱ 5,690,000
Explore5. Isuzu mu-X
Isuzu Philippines recently debuted the new mu-X in the country following the launch of the new D-Max pickup truck in early 2021. This midsize SUV is available with a pair of powerful engines that make it capable enough for off-road adventures. It can come with either a 1.9-liter turbodiesel rated at 150 hp and 350 Nm of torque, or a larger 3.0-liter turbodiesel that makes 187 hp and 450 Nm of torque.
A rugged SUV with Isuzu engineering
However, the lack of a rear locking differential is seen as a liability by some. The mu-X somewhat compensates for this handicap with a Terrain Command Select Dial with Rough Terrain Mode switch (4WD system) for the top-of-the-line LS-E variant.
Know more about Isuzu mu-X 2024
The Isuzu mu-X Philippines 2023 is the Japanese marque's entry to the 7-seater midsize SUV based on its pickup truck sibling, the Isuzu D-Max. It is offered in five variants with a price that ranges from Php 1,650,000 to Php 2,505,000. For the Philippines market, the Isuzu-made SUV has two available engine options. The smaller one is a 1.9-liter RZ4E Bluepower turbodiesel capable of making up to 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. It can either come with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the larger engine option for the mu-X is a 3.0-liter inline-4 turbodiesel. At most, this mill can produce up to 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. Only a six-speed automatic transmission is available with this engine.
Dimensions-wise, the mu-X is 4,850 mm long, 1,870 mm wide, and 1,825 mm high, with a wheelbase and ground clearance rated at 2,855 mm and 235 mm, respectively. Locally, this midsize SUV is competing against the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Nissan Terra, and Mitsubishi Montero Sport.
₱ 1,650,000 - ₱ 2,505,000
Explore6. Mitsubishi Montero Sport
Much like its pickup platform vehicle (PPV) contemporaries, ruggedness is par for the course where the Mitsubishi Montero Sport is concerned. This Japanese midsize SUV is one of the most popular choices in the market for an outdoor-ready vehicle. The Montero Sport is powered by a 2.4-liter (4N15) turbodiesel MIVEC engine across the range, producing 179 hp and 430 Nm of torque.
Flaunts a robust look thanks to its Dynamic Shield fascia
However, only the top-spec GT variant gets the upper hand when it comes to off-road capabilities. It is equipped with a Super Select 4WD-II with Off-Road Mode that supplies grip depending on the road condition. Also, it uses an 8-speed automatic transmission, manually actuated with paddle shifters in Sport Mode for a more spirited driving experience.
Know more about Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2024
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 2023 price in the Philippines is quite good, ranging from PHP 1,568,000 to PHP 2,341,000 with five 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.
₱ 1,568,000 - ₱ 2,366,000
Explore7. Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner is one tested and proven midsize SUV that managed to belong to the top 10 best-selling cars in 2020. That said, going on any type of road adventure is child’s play for this vehicle, with an IMV platform shared with the Hilux pickup and Innova MPV. It joins the 500 Club thanks to its 2.8-liter turbodiesel that makes 500 Nm of torque starting at 1,600 rpm only.
The Fortuner LTD offers a unique styling
As for its off-road capabilities, the top-of-the-line Toyota Fortuner LTD variant features a 4x4 drivetrain with auto disconnect locking differential. It also boasts ventilated discs on all four wheels for powerful braking performance.
Know more about Toyota Fortuner 2024
The Toyota Fortuner 2023 sold in our market spans six five trim levels and 11 variants. Toyota Fortuner prices in the Philippines range from PHP 1,633,000 for the Fortuner G 2.4 M/T to PHP 2,509,000 for the flagship GR Sport 2.8 A/T. This midsize SUV spans two turbodiesel options, with most of the range equipped with a 6-speed automatic gearbox (6-speed manual for the base variant) as well as a 4x2 drivetrain (4x4 is available on the LTD trim and is standard on the GR Sport). The Fortuner brings a length of 4,795mm, a width of 1,855mm, and a height of 1,835mm on a 2,745mm wheelbase.
The lowest monthly installment starts at Php 19,683 for the G 2.4 4x2, with 60-month payment terms on a 50 percent downpayment. As a contender in the midsize SUV segment, the Toyota Fortuner faces off against a slew of rivals including the Mitsubishi Montero Sport, Nissan Terra, Ford Everest, Isuzu mu-X, and Foton Toplander.
₱ 1,736,000 - ₱ 2,595,000
Explore8. Toyota FJ Cruiser
Despite being discontinued in other markets, the Toyota FJ Cruiser continues to be sold in the Philippines. As such, it joins this list as a noteworthy entry at number eight. Among the models in this list, the FJ Cruiser features the largest engine, a 4.0-liter gasoline V6 mill that is capable of generating 268 hp and 380 Nm of torque.
A familiar sight of the nameplate
Design-wise, the Toyota FJ Cruiser is undeniably an off-roader highlighted by its boxy body, 17-inch alloy wheels, and round headlamp design. It sends power to all four wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission only.
Know more about Toyota FJ Cruiser 2024
After recognizing its demand, the country's leading carmaker Toyota Motor Philippines brought the FJ Cruiser in the country in 2013. The 2023 Toyota FJ Cruiser maintained its predecessor’s aesthetic principles – tough, intimidating, and boxy with rounded corners. At the same time, it received modern technological updates. Locally, the FJ Cruise only has one variant, and it is priced at Php 2,293,000.
Under the hood of the Toyota FJ Cruiser Philippines is a 4.0-liter 24-valve DOCH Dual VVT-I V6 power plant that produces 268 hp and 380 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. It then uses a 4x4 drivetrain. Size-wise, the FJ Cruiser measures 4,670mm long, 1,905mm wide, and 1830mm in height. It also has a wheelbase length of 2,690mm, and a aground clearance of 244mm.
In the local market, the FJ Cruiser competes against the likes of the Jeep Wrangler and the Land Rover Defender. And technically, it also belongs in the same niche as the Suzuki Jimny.
Discontinued
Explore9. Foton Toplander
Last on the list is the Foton Toplander. This vehicle may not be the flashiest among its rivals in terms of design, but it has the engine to get the job done. Under the hood, the Toplander is powered by a 2.8-liter Cummins diesel engine as standard which is capable of generating 174 hp and 365 Nm of torque.
This gets the job done
The only downside to this model is the lack of a 4x4 drivetrain, although it does come with a limited-slip rear differential. Regardless, it sits on a body-on-frame chassis, making it a true SUV. The engine is paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission as standard, while cruise control is available for the top-spec EX variant, useful on long highway drives.
Discover more car lists only at Philkotse.com
Know more about Foton Toplander 2024
The Foton Toplander 2023 is a midsize, rear-wheel-drive, body-on-frame SUV. In the Philippines, this seven-seater model has two variants; the Toplander EL 2.8 4x2 AT priced at Php 1,388,000, and the Toplander EX 2.8 4x2 AT price at Php 1,498,000.
Under the hood of the Toplander is a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine that can make up to 160 horsepower and 360Nm of torque. It is then paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox sending power to its rear wheels.
Size-wise, the Foton Toplander is 4,830mm long, 1,910mm wide, and 1,870mm in height. It also has a wheelbase length of 2,790mm and a ground clearance of 220mm.
Locally, the Toplander competes against Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, Nissan Terra, Ford Everest, among others.
₱ 1,388,000 - ₱ 1,498,000
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