2022 Top 5: The Best Cars We Reviewed This Year

2022 has been a great year not only for each and one of us, but also for the local automotive industry. Sales numbers have been going up, face-to-face events have completely returned, and brands have been introducing new models left and right. As the end of the year approaches, it’s time once again to round up our top favorite cars we reviewed over the year.

For this year, we decided to just do our Top 5 to make it a bit more special. Our criteria is very simple. First is obviously, it must have left a mark on us by standing out compared to other models we’ve tested. Next, we must not own one for obvious reasons. Third, we should have been able to test it for at least four days. Lastly, its price should be less than or equal to Php 3-million to make it more realistically attainable.

With over 56 different vehicles reviewed in the past year, and 53 of them qualified based on our criteria, here are the Top 5 vehicles we reviewed in 2022:

(5) Peugeot 2008

Starting the list at fifth place is the Peugeot 2008. The newest (not latest) model to be introduced in the Philippines by the French automaker, the 2008 is their entry-level crossover but it does not feel that way. The Peugeot 2008 combines its stand-out design with practicality, great ergonomics, and really good performance from its 1.2L turbo engine, all in a small package. It may lean on the pricier side for the segment, but that’s no issue considering everything you get with it.

Watch our review: 2022 Peugeot 2008 1.5 THP | Car Review

(4) Ford Ranger

The pickup truck segment is one of the most popular and crowded in the Philippine automotive market and once again, Ford has brought in another game changing model. While it still sits on the same platform as before, albeit upgraded, its tougher and more modern exterior details give off a vibe no other truck can match. Of course, the blue oval is once again pioneering the segment with new technology in the Ranger such as its large 10- or 12-inch portrait touchscreen infotainment system as well as its very well tuned advanced driver assistance safety technologies. Improvements to the top-spec variant’s 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel engine have also drastically changed our thoughts on this truck’s performance on-road, and even off-road. Ford was also able to do all those without bringing its pricing too high up, still making it easily attainable for buyers in the local market. They surely have a winner in their hands.

Watch our review: 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.0 Bi-Turbo 4×4 | Car Review

(3) Honda Civic

The Honda Civic, sitting at third place, has a special place in our heart. That’s not the reason it’s here though as it really is a perfect combo of everything. While most people will say that it no longer looks or feels as good as the previous generation, we think otherwise. With a standard turbocharged VTEC engine across the line, it provides exhilarating performance anytime you want while still maintaining comfort. Regardless of variant, it provides great amounts of safety with Honda SENSING, the brand’s suite of advanced driver assistance technology, as standard. Nevermind its more mature appearance or higher price tag, there is a Civic for everyone, young or old, male or female, single or married. The Honda Civic is the perfect example of balance.

Watch our reviews: 2022 Honda Civic 1.5 S Turbo CVT Honda SENSING | Car Review

2022 Honda Civic 1.5 RS Turbo CVT Honda SENSING | Car Review

(2) Ford Everest

Like its Ford Ranger pickup truck sibling, the Ford Everest also makes the list, albeit at a higher place. Like the Ranger, it has always been a pioneer in the extremely popular pick-up based midsize SUV segment where it competes with new tech and very much commendable engine performance. With this new generation launched a few months ago, it’s no different. We were able to try out both single and bi-turbo versions of the Everest and whichever you choose, you’re in for a driving treat. And when you’re not driving and see its more muscular and modern exterior, as well as its more premium interior appointments which make for a more luxurious experience, you know that you will not regret buying one. 

Watch our reviews: 2023 Ford Everest Sport 2.0 Turbo 4×2 | Car Review

2023 Ford Everest Titanium+ 2.0 Bi-Turbo 4×4 | Car Review

(1) Nissan Kicks

The Nissan Kicks is a true game changer which made it easy to decide that this is the best vehicle we reviewed this year. It provides a perfect balance of electric vehicle driving and a normal gas-powered vehicle with its hybrid e-POWER system. Not only does it make the vehicle much more fuel efficient (our testing returned 25.7 km/l in mixed driving), but also makes it a lot smoother and more comfortable to drive. Not only that, it also looks really good on the outside. Its interior? Kind of looks bland but it’s a compromise that we’re very much willing to take. And of course, its price, you can get it for as low as Php 1,209,000 while the top-spec version tops-out at Php 1,509,000. That’s a great deal! The Nissan Kicks really is a huge step towards the direction of an electrified future both by Nissan Philippines and our local automotive industry. It’s no surprise that people are lining up for these at dealerships and we won’t be surprised to see a lot more of these on Philippine roads. Truly a game changer.

Watch our review: 2023 Nissan Kicks e-POWER VE | Car Review

Cheers to 2023!