The 10 Most Popular Top Gear PH Car Reviews of 2021: A Decade-Defining Snapshot
by TopGear.com.ph | Dec 28, 2021
PHOTO: Drei Laurel, Jason Tulio, Niky Tamayo
CAR BRANDS IN THIS ARTICLE
Toyota
Toyota
Suzuki
Suzuki
Hyundai
Hyundai
Isuzu
Isuzu
Geely
Geely
CAR MODELS IN THIS ARTICLE
Toyota Hilux
Toyota Hilux
Toyota Innova
Toyota Innova
Toyota Fortuner
Toyota Fortuner
Isuzu D-Max
Isuzu D-Max
Suzuki S-Presso
Suzuki S-Presso
Toyota Corolla Cross
Toyota Corolla Cross
Geely Okavango
Geely Okavango
As we navigated the complexities of 2021, the Philippine automotive landscape experienced a surge of activity. Following a tentative period at the close of 2020, the industry rallied with an impressive influx of new and updated models. This momentum carried through the year, ensuring that despite the ongoing global health challenges, consumers had an abundance of choices.
Now, as we look forward to an even more dynamic 2022, it’s time to reflect on the year that was. Beyond the major launches, we’ve compiled a list of the most-clicked car reviews, offering a unique window into what resonated most with our readers. From the latest midsize pickups to innovative crossovers, here are the 10 reviews that captured the most attention.
1) 2021 Toyota Fortuner 4×2 G AT: The Undisputed Champion’s Value Proposition
PHOTO BY Drei Laurel
“The Toyota Fortuner’s base variant is anything but bare. There’s a handful of features inside this thing product planners could have easily left out, including the upgraded touchscreen infotainment system, intuitive instrument cluster, and backup camera. At the very least, packages like this should be the standard for base variants unless manufacturers plan on going absolutely bland with them.”
In the fiercely competitive landscape of Philippine automotive journalism, the Toyota Fortuner has long reigned supreme. But in 2021, it wasn’t just the sheer presence of the Fortuner that dominated headlines; it was the surprising value proposition of its base variant that truly captured the public’s imagination. While many consumers might gravitate towards the flashier, top-tier models, our review of the 2021 Fortuner 4×2 G AT revealed that the entry-level option offers a compelling package that challenges conventional wisdom.
The allure of the Fortuner isn’t merely rooted in its robust build quality or its commanding road presence—qualities that have become synonymous with the Toyota brand. Instead, what struck a chord with our readers was the revelation that even the most affordable iteration of this iconic SUV refused to skimp on the features that matter most in the modern driving experience. The inclusion of an upgraded touchscreen infotainment system, a crisp and intuitive instrument cluster, and a standard backup camera set a new benchmark for what consumers should expect from a base model. This approach directly counters the industry trend of offering stripped-down, bare-bones versions of popular vehicles, a practice that often leaves buyers feeling shortchanged.
For those seeking the reliability of a Toyota without the premium price tag of the higher trims, the 2021 Fortuner 4×2 G AT presents a nearly irresistible proposition. It demonstrates that a manufacturer can deliver a vehicle that is both affordable and feature-rich, striking a delicate balance that many competitors struggle to achieve. This strategic positioning is particularly relevant in the current economic climate, where value-conscious consumers are actively seeking ways to maximize their automotive investments.
Beyond the tangible features, the enduring appeal of the Fortuner lies in its unwavering reliability and its proven track record in the Philippine market. For generations, Toyota has been the go-to brand for families and professionals who demand a vehicle that can withstand the rigors of daily commuting and long-distance travel. The 2021 model continues this legacy, offering a comfortable and capable driving experience that instills confidence on even the most challenging road conditions.
Ultimately, the popularity of our review of the 2021 Toyota Fortuner 4×2 G AT underscores a broader shift in consumer priorities. While performance and luxury remain important considerations, the modern buyer places a premium on value and practicality. This trend is likely to shape the direction of the Philippine automotive industry for years to come, as manufacturers strive to meet the evolving expectations of a discerning clientele.
2) 2021 Toyota Hilux Conquest 2.8 4×4 AT: The Ultimate All-Rounder Redefined
PHOTO BY Jason Tulio
“What Toyota has on its hands with the Hilux Conquest is perhaps the most comfortable all-around package in the midsize-pickup segment. While it does feel a bit spartan in some aspects, it compensates by providing a vehicle that’s just as capable of carrying heavy loads as it is ferrying you within city limits.”
The midsize pickup segment in the Philippines has always been a battleground of titans, where power, durability, and utility are the cornerstones of success. In this highly competitive arena, the Toyota Hilux has consistently emerged as a dominant force, setting the benchmark for what a modern pickup truck should be. However, in 2021, the Hilux Conquest 2.8 4×4 AT didn’t just maintain its status quo; it redefined the very notion of an all-around package, capturing the attention of readers with its compelling blend of comfort and capability.
Our in-depth review delved into the nuances of the Hilux Conquest, exploring how Toyota has managed to refine a vehicle that was already widely regarded as a segment leader. The key to its enduring appeal lies in its remarkable versatility. While many trucks in this class excel in specific areas—such as brute strength for hauling or sophisticated features for urban driving—the Hilux Conquest masterfully bridges the gap between these seemingly disparate worlds. It offers a driving experience that is equally at home navigating the bustling streets of Metro Manila as it is tackling rugged off-road terrain.
This remarkable duality is a testament to Toyota’s engineering prowess. The vehicle’s suspension system strikes a delicate balance between comfort and utility, providing a ride that is surprisingly compliant for passengers while maintaining the robust underpinnings necessary for heavy-duty tasks. This equilibrium is a crucial factor in the Philippine context, where vehicles are often subjected to a diverse range of driving conditions, from pothole-laden city roads to steep mountain passes.
Furthermore, the Hilux Conquest’s interior reflects a growing trend in the pickup segment: the integration of passenger-car-like amenities into what was once considered a purely utilitarian category. While our review noted that some aspects of the cabin might feel somewhat spartan, this is a minor quibble when considering the vehicle’s overall package. The focus on essential functionality ensures that drivers can remain connected and comfortable during long journeys, without unnecessary distractions.
The allure of the Hilux Conquest extends beyond its physical attributes. It represents a symbol of reliability and resilience, qualities that are deeply valued in the Philippine culture. For many, a pickup truck is more than just a mode of transportation; it is a workhorse, a partner in business, and a reliable companion for family adventures. The Hilux Conquest embodies these multifaceted roles, making it a compelling choice for a wide range of consumers.
The sustained interest in our review of the 2021 Toyota Hilux Conquest 2.8 4×4 AT highlights the enduring power of the Toyota brand and the continued relevance of the pickup segment in the Philippine automotive market. As consumers increasingly seek vehicles that can adapt to their dynamic lifestyles, the Hilux Conquest stands out as a benchmark for versatility and value, promising to remain a dominant force for years to come.
3) 2021 Toyota Innova 2.8 V Diesel AT: The Unchallenged King of the MPV Segment
PHOTO BY Jason Tulio
“So, is the Innova still the king of its own domain? The answer, naturally, is a resounding yes. But even without any direct competitors to oppose it, the Toyota remains a solid choice for families and for anyone who needs to move bodies in the city and on long road trips. Just don’t expect more than six of those people to be comfortable inside, despite what the brochure claims.
“In fact, I’d put the Innova ahead of some midsize SUVs as a family car. Sure, it might not look as badass as those bruisers, but this MPV is just as fun to drive and just as enjoyable inside the cabin.”
In the ever-evolving landscape of Philippine automotive preferences, certain vehicles possess an almost mythical status, transcending mere transportation to become ingrained in the cultural fabric. The Toyota Innova is undeniably one such vehicle. As we navigated the complexities of 2021, the enduring appeal of the Innova remained undiminished, a fact clearly reflected in the sustained readership of our comprehensive review. Even in a market increasingly drawn to the allure of SUVs, the Innova continues to hold its own, a testament to its unparalleled blend of practicality, reliability, and sheer versatility.
Our exploration of the 2021 Innova 2.8 V Diesel AT delved into the core of what makes this Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) a perennial favorite among Filipino families and businesses alike. While the automotive industry has witnessed a significant shift towards SUVs in recent years, with many consumers captivated by their rugged aesthetics and perceived sense of adventure, the Innova stands firm as a testament to the enduring power of substance over style. It is a vehicle that prioritizes function without sacrificing comfort, offering a driving experience that is both refined and reassuring.
The central question that often arises when discussing the Innov
