Here are the most searched SUV models on ZigWheels PH

Because of their sporty looks and versatile interiors, SUVs continue to rule the country's roads and remain one of the top vehicle choices among Filipinos.

We take a look at the five most searched brand-new SUV models on ZigWheels Philippines and see what makes them popular among our readers.

Toyota Veloz

This newcomer has already captivated the interest of many Filipinos. A former Avanza variant, the Veloz now has its own nameplate.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) launched the all-new Toyota Veloz last April as its newest contender in the subcompact SUV segment. This seven-seater features a spacious cabin that ensures comfort, convenience, and safety on the road.

Every ride on the Veloz lets passengers “Discover the Extraordinary” through a full sensory experience. The Toyota Veloz is underpinned by a new global design platform and is developed to provide an improved driving and riding experience that combines driving power and pleasure.

The Toyota Veloz comes in two variants: the G CVT and V CVT. Both variants are powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 106 ps and 134 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with three drive modes: Normal, Eco, and Sport.

The Toyota Veloz features a sleek and stylish look that is accentuated by a contemporary front grille and split-type LED headlamps with sequential turn signals. The design is completed by an aggressive rear with an LED line guide back door garnish. The Veloz is also equipped with outside rearview mirrors with auto-fold function and a welcome lamp, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels. The Philippine version comes with an over fender to exude a true SUV character.

The keyless Smart Entry and Push Start System features make every trip convenient and ideal for the customers' on-the-go lifestyle. Ambient lighting that complements the tone of the interior welcomes passengers. The Toyota Veloz comes with fabric and synthetic leather seats with an optional long sofa mode for more comfortable and spacious seating.

The Toyota Veloz is also equipped with a seven-inch TFT multi-information display and a nine-inch multimedia display with Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity.

The Toyota Veloz comes with six SRS airbags and an electronic parking brake with an auto hold feature.

The V CVT variant further enhances the SUV’s safety features as it comes with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) features such as Pre-Collision System, Automatic High Beam, and Lane Departure Alert. Other advanced safety features include a panoramic view monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, and hill start assist control.

The G CVT variant is priced at P1.185 million, while the V CVT retails for P1.225 million.

Toyota Fortuner

The Toyota Fortuner has always been one of the most popular SUVs in the country. Its sporty and muscular exterior, premium interior, and active safety features have been well-loved by Filipino motorists.

Under the Toyota Fortuner’s hood is a four-cylinder diesel engine that generates up to 204 ps of power and 500 Nm of torque. The Toyota Fortuner comes in six-speed automatic and manual variants.

The athletic look of the Toyota Fortuner is highlighted by the mesh-type front grille, split-type LED headlamps, mudguards, and roof rail. It is also fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels.

The leather seats provide a luxurious ambiance in the Toyota Fortuner’s cabin, alongside the dual-zone automatic climate control, nine-speaker JBL sound system, wireless charger, and cool box. The Toyota Fortuner is also equipped with a 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display and eight-inch display audio with Apple Carplay, Android Auto, and Smart Device Link (SDL) connectivity. Other audio functions include Bluetooth connectivity, USB, and voice command.

Just like the Veloz, the Toyota Fortuner also comes with TSS features, including Adaptive Cruise Control.

In 2021, TMP introduced the GR-S variant of the Toyota Fortuner, giving the best-selling SUV special features inspired by the carmaker's Gazoo Racing performance division.

The Toyota Fortuner GR-S features a two-tone paint job of White Pearl and Attitude Black, black 18-inch wheels, and red brake calipers.

The Toyota Fortuner comes in eight classy neutral colors that contribute to its sophisticated appeal. Price ranges from P1.671 million to P2.514 million.

Kia Stonic

The iconic Stonic maintains its popularity in the local market after being Kia’s best-selling model in 2021.

Kia Philippines launched the Kia Stonic in October 2020 as a stylish and fun vehicle that is perfect for young professionals and city dwellers. This head-turner is best known for its two-tone body colors and the signature “Tiger Nose” grille.

The Kia Stonic is also available in Style Edition features blacked-out 16-inch alloy wheels, front, side, and rear skirts, and a Stonic Style badge.

Aside from the vehicle’s striking exterior looks, Kia Stonic owners are also impressed by its flexible interiors that can accommodate up to five people. The Stonic has a 2,570-mm wheelbase, providing ample legroom for every occupant. The rear seats come with a folding function to provide 325 liters of cargo space.

The Kia Stonic is also equipped with an eight-inch touchscreen display audio with Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity.

The Kia Stonic is powered by a 1.4-liter Kappa dual-CVVT engine that churns out up to 100 ps and 132 Nm of torque. It comes in a five-speed manual and six-speed automatic variants.

In terms of safety, the Kia Stonic is equipped with driver and front passenger airbags, an anti-lock brake system, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist control. For easier maneuvering and parking, the vehicle comes with a rearview camera and rear sensors.

Another factor that contributes to the Kia Stonic’s popularity is its affordable price. For as low as P780,000, you can drive home this stylish and versatile crossover.

Toyota Rush

Another popular Toyota SUV in the country is the Rush, which also became the most-searched brand-new model on ZigWheels Philippines in 2020.

Just recently, TMP introduced the model’s new top-grade variant, the Rush GR-S, upgrading the popular seven-seater’s style with the official emblem and enhancements from the Toyota Gazoo Racing line.

Similar to the Veloz, the Toyota Rush is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine. Rush’s engine produces a maximum power of 103 ps and 134 Nm of torque. The SUV is available in four-speed automatic and five-speed manual variants.

The Rush may not be as feature-packed as other Toyota SUVs, but it is still equipped with modern cabin features such as Apple Carplay and Android Auto, voice command function, Smart Entry, Push Start, leather seats, and an auto air-conditioning system at the front row, and light control system.

To ensure the safety of every occupant, the Toyota Rush is equipped with driver, front passenger, side, and curtain shield airbags. It also comes standard with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Isofix child restraint system, LED high mount stop lamp, emergency brake signal, and back sonar.

The Toyota Rush comes in five classic exterior colors. Pricing ranges from P1.012 million to P1.176 million.

Suzuki Jimny

Those who spend their free time on outdoor adventures will surely love the Suzuki Jimny, which features a cute yet rugged appearance.

Suzuki deliberately designed this off-roader with smaller dimensions so that it could easily navigate constricted mountain trails that are inaccessible to large vehicles.

A drip rail is fitted on the Jimny's roof to avoid leaks when driving in inclement weather. A pair of round LED headlamps with washers are also included for improved visibility when driving through sandy and muddy terrain.

The Suzuki Jimny features a horizontal instrument panel that can be used as a reference point to regulate the angle of the vehicle when driving across rough terrain. To maintain the serious off-roading vibe, the interior accents revolve around a simple color scheme made up of black, chrome, white, and red.

The Suzuki Jimny’s nine-inch touchscreen multimedia audio display also comes with off-road functions such as a clinometer, compass, altimeter, and barometer.

The Suzuki Jimny is powered by a fuel-efficient 1.5-liter K15 engine that produces up to 101 ps of power and 130 Nm of torque. It comes in four-speed automatic and five-speed manual variants.

The Suzuki Jimny also has the AllGrip Pro driving system, which fulfills the required driving performance to automatically maneuver and adapt to even the most challenging terrain.

AllGrip Pro satisfies every driver's desire for adventure by combining its 4WD performance with reduction gear. It also delivers sufficient power to navigate various road obstacles.

Suzuki's safety technologies are also included in the Jimny to boost the driver's confidence while driving. It comes with features like hill hold control and hill descent control to improve stability when negotiating steep slopes. The clutch and brake both feature a pedal release system. Additional modern safety features include an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability program (ESP), brake assist, reverse parking camera, and reverse parking sensor.

Pricing for the Suzuki Jimny ranges from P1.17 million to P1.285 million.

Photos from Toyota Motor Philippines, Kia Philippines, and Suzuki Philippines Inc.