Ideal cars for modern-day moms

Mother’s Day is just around the corner. And with the global celebration literally just days away (May 11), Zigwheels Philippines decided to list down what we believe would be the ideal ride for today’s modern-day mommas. 

So, without further ado, here are some of the cars that would suit the contemporary mami. 

Lexus LBX: for posh moms 

The Lexus LBX is a hybrid crossover from Toyota’s luxury division — making it a good choice for mothers who exude opulence and elegance. 

Like makeup that’s on fleek, the Lexus LBX boasts sharp character lines complemented by eye-catching and head-turning LED lighting. In addition, its chrome Lexus badge and script, as well as the shiny trims on its fascia and rear bumper, allow it to look sophisticated without being too loud. 

Showing that its beauty is backed by substance, the Lexus LBX’s interior offers occupants with the following interior amenities: 

• Leather-upholstered seats
• Nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless charger
• Automatic air conditioning 

The upmarket crossover is currently sold in the market in a single variant priced at P2.558 million. 

We recently took the Lexus LBX for a spin. You can read more about why we think it should be your main luxury city crossover in the article, here. 

Subaru Evoltis: for outdoorsy mommies

Subaru cars have long been associated with outdoor activities as the brand has built a reputation for making automobiles that can do well on both paved roads and rough thoroughfares. 

That said, the Subaru Evoltis could make for a good pick for moms who appreciate the outdoors. 

Powering the sport utility vehicle (SUV) is a 2,387 cubic-centimeter engine paired with a Lineartronic continuous variable transmission. Featuring a symmetrical all-wheel drive system, the Subaru Evoltis makes as much as 256 horsepower (hp) with 375 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. 

Adding to its capable character are the below appointments: 

• 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels with 245/50 R20 tires 
• Power-sliding large glass sunroof 
• Roof rails with integrated tie-down points 
• Roof spoiler 
• Power tailgate 
• Retractable cargo cover 
• Cargo area with 12-volt power outlet 

Like the aforementioned Lexus LBX, the Subaru Evoltis is also available in a sole variant. It would set back adventurous moms some P3.78 million. 

Not too long ago, we were able to find out what the Subaru Evoltis has to offer backseat passengers. Find out why we believe the SUV makes for a great ride for passenger princesses in the story, here. 

Suzuki XL7 Hybrid: for practical mamas 

The Suzuki XL7 Hybrid best represents the practical mother, thanks to its no-nonsense features that focus on things that matter. 

Considered as one of the best bang-for-buck models in the multi-purpose vehicle segment, the Suzuki XL7 is a model that offers generous space for the kids as well as some everyday grocery items. 

Here are its other notable features: 

• Fabric seats 
• Hard plastics on dashboard, door trims, center console 
• Foldable second- and third-row seating 

Also frugal is its hybrid powerplant comprised of a 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

Zigwheels Philippines Managing Editor Ruben Manahan was able to test the nameplate in June last year and noted that its mild-hybrid setup achieved a fuel economy of 22.03 kilometers per liter. 

For those eyeing the Suzuki XL7, it is offered in the country in a single variant  with an available two-tone colorway option. It is priced at P1.252 million (P1.262 million for two-tone).

You may read our chief’s full review of the Suzuki XL7 Hybrid, here.

BYD Atto 3: for eco-friendly mothers

Nowadays, it’s important to teach our kids about sustainability and the eco-friendly mother would probably choose an electric vehicle like the BYD Atto 3. 

Propulsion comes from a permanent magnet synchronous motor that is paired with a 60-kilowatt Blade battery. 

The said setup produces the following figures: 

Maximum power output (in hp)	201
Maximum torque (in Nm)	310
Maximum range (in kilometers)	480

And since the BYD Atto 3 bypasses the traditional combustion process, it is able to zoom from a standstill to 100 kilometers per hour in 7.3 seconds. 

The writer joined members of the motoring media on a two-day trip that saw participants drive the vehicle from Bonifacio Global City to Baguio City, testing its mettle and overall range. 

BYD Cars Philippines has two variants of the Atto 3 with a starting price of P1.598 million.

You can read about our emissions-free journey in the story, here. 

In addition, we tested the vehicle’s capabilities performing real-world activities, here.

GAC Empow: for athletic mommas 

The GAC Empow is what the sporty mom might pick, due to its athletic look and agile driving dynamics. 

Much like the fit momma, this sedan appears lean with the mechanical muscles to back up its somewhat chiseled exterior. 

Notable are the following features: 

• Large grille with bright yellow appliques
• Carbon fiber-style exterior trims 
• Long, defined hood 
• Sporty 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels with 225/60 series tires
• Side sill garnishes with carbon fiber-looking design 
• Muscular diffuser 
• Quad exhaust pipes 

Some design continuity can be found inside the cabin with the below appointments: 

• Leather seats 
• Leather steering wheel
• Seven-inch infotainment system 
• 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment display screen 
• Carbon fiber trims on center console 

Providing the necessary “oomph” is a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine mated to a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. The said setup makes some 174 hp with 270 Nm of pulling power.

Its capabilities can be felt even more when the Sport+ driving mode is selected. 

GAC Motor Philippines is offering the Empow in three variants priced from P1.225 million to P1.348 million. 

You can check out our full review of its range-topping GAC Empow GE variant in the story, here. 

Also read:

Honda CR-V V Turbo CVT: impressive entry-level variant

JAC JS4: from daily drives to ‘vacay’ vibes

Honda Giorno+: classy, capable city scoot