If you'd like to upgrade to a vehicle that's bigger and more substantial than basic and functional ones — yet won't cost the magic million — then we've got you covered. We've lined up a selection of vehicles that retail between P800,000 to P900,000. 

In that price range, we think that the vehicles here best balance affordability and a loaded feature list. These cars, given that they're not so much built to meet a low price point, should also feel more classier and refined than their budget-focused contemporaries, too. 

What's more, we also suspect some these vehicles may have flown under your car-buying radar. 

And so without further ado, let's look at what you can get from P800,000 to P900,000. See if you agree with this list — or are surprised to see some of the selections. 

Geely Emgrand Comfort (P798,000) 

Sneaking in just below the P800,000 barrier is the middle-trim version of Geely's subcompact sedan. The 2022 Emgrand Comfort slots above the S and below the top-trim Premium spec. 

It's that Emgrand Premium we've gotten to know not long ago, and if that model's big-car feel trickles down the Emgrand range, then that's already one reason to go for the Comfort. For the money, the Emgrand Comfort gives you an eight-inch infotainment screen with phone mirroring, a CVT automatic, LED lights, and parking sensors. 

Toyota Avanza 1.5 J MT (P813,000) 

The entry-level 2022 Avanza J benefits from the wealth of upgrades Toyota has given to the latest version of its family MPV. 

Among these upgrades is a clever interior, which boasts of a so-called Long Sofa Mode feature. Unlike the Avanza J models of old, Toyota has given this latest model a third row of seats and that Sofa Mode. In this configuration, the second-row seatbacks fold backward to meet with the cushions of the third row, in order to create huge couch in the cabin. 

Suzuki Swift GL 1.2L CVT (P844,000)

Amid the popularity of crossovers, subcompact hatchbacks like Suzuki's stylish Swift have driven under many people's noses. For its 2022 update, the Swift is now only available in GL CVT guise. 

 

Outside, the new Swift gets a subtle facelift with a studded net pattern grille. Inside, the 2022 Swift's eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. The 2022 Swift retains a 1.2-liter and CVT powertrain combo — which should provide the some of the sporty driving characteristics the nameplate is known for. 

Isuzu D-Max RZ4E Single C&C MT (P857,000) 

The most affordable version of Isuzu's venerated pickup truck, well, actually trades the pickup bed for a chassis. 

That's because this 2022 D-Max Single C&C model allows a passenger cabin, a pickup bed, or a cargo hold to be attached atop its rear chassis. Clearly, this D-Max is for the transport operator, construction company, or courier on a budget.  

MG ZS Style AT (P869,000)

Whether we like it or not, crossovers are here to stay. MG has joined the crossover fray with the ZS. 

It may be the middle child of the range, but the 2022 ZS Style AT almost feels like it's the top of the shop with its chrome grille outside and leather seats and tiller inside. The ZS Style shares an SUV-esque styling and stance with the rest of the ZS selection. 

Fully-loaded, relatively affordable, and not quite common — now which of these P800,000-to-P900,000 vehicles is your pick? 

Photos from Sojitz G Auto Philippines, Suzuki Philippines Inc., Isuzu Philippines Corp., MG Philippines, Toyota Motor Philippines