We’re Keeping Our Fingers Crossed for the Philippine Auto Scene
By Anton Andres | December 24, 2024
New Cars 2025
PHOTO: Manufacturer Press ILLUSTRATION: TopGear.com.ph
Car Models in This Article
Subaru Forester
Subaru Forester
Nissan Patrol
Nissan Patrol
Ford Everest
Ford Everest
Toyota Alphard
Toyota Alphard
Toyota Vios
Toyota Vios
Isuzu MU-X
Isuzu MU-X
Honda HR-V
Honda HR-V
Lexus LX
Lexus LX
Hyundai Palisade
Hyundai Palisade
Toyota GR Yaris
Toyota GR Yaris
Hyundai Staria
Hyundai Staria
2024 was a landmark year in the Philippine automotive sector, marked by a wave of groundbreaking new car launches that reshaped the market. As we look toward 2025, the momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Disruptors continue to challenge the status quo, while legacy automakers are accelerating their investments in technology and electrification. The automotive landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, promising an even more dynamic year ahead for consumers and enthusiasts alike.
While pinpointing the exact vehicles set to debut in the next twelve months is always a challenge, we’ve compiled a list of fifteen models we’re eagerly anticipating. This isn’t an exhaustive or definitive forecast, but rather a collection of highly desired new car models in the Philippines for 2025 that we believe would significantly enhance the market. These potential arrivals reflect the latest trends in automotive design, performance, and sustainable mobility, catering to the growing sophistication of Filipino car buyers.
Ford Everest Tremor: Electrifying the Off-Road Segment
The American automaker has confirmed plans to introduce electrified models to the Philippines in the near future, but there’s another highly anticipated variant we’re hoping lands on our shores in 2025. While Ford has yet to confirm an Everest Raptor for our market, the 2024 premiere of the Everest Tremor in Australia generated significant excitement. Built in Thailand, the Tremor offers a compelling middle ground between the standard Everest and the hardcore Raptor, bringing enhanced off-road capability and rugged styling.
The business case for bringing the Everest Tremor to the Philippines is strong. The local market has shown a clear appetite for lifestyle SUVs with serious off-road credentials, as evidenced by the popularity of models like the Toyota Fortuner and Isuzu MU-X. The Tremor, with its upgraded suspension, all-terrain tires, and distinctive visual enhancements, would offer a fresh and compelling option in this segment. Furthermore, Ford Philippines could leverage the V6 turbodiesel engine option available in other markets, providing a performance upgrade that would further differentiate the Tremor from its competitors. This addition would not only cater to hardcore off-road enthusiasts but also appeal to the growing number of buyers seeking vehicles that blend capability with everyday usability.
Honda HR-V e:HEV: Redefining Hybrid Efficiency
We’ve consistently championed Honda’s e:HEV powertrain as one of the most sophisticated and effective hybrid systems available today. While it may sound cliché, the term ‘powerful yet efficient’ truly applies to Honda’s hybrid technology. It strikes an ideal balance between spirited performance and remarkable fuel economy, making it a compelling proposition for the modern driver. With this in mind, we’re particularly eager to see the electrified version of the Honda HR-V introduced to the Philippine market.
The HR-V e:HEV offers a driving experience that belies its fuel-efficient nature. It combines the practicality and comfort of a compact crossover with the responsive acceleration of a larger vehicle, all while delivering double the fuel economy of traditional gasoline counterparts. This blend of attributes makes it an ideal candidate for navigating the often congested streets of Metro Manila and other urban centers across the Philippines. The popularity of the hybrid model in Japan, where it has been a top seller, further underscores its potential success in our market. Introducing the HR-V e:HEV would not only expand Honda’s electrified offerings but also provide Filipino consumers with a highly desirable option that aligns with the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions.
Honda Prelude: A Return of the Sporty Icon
This particular model might be a bit of a stretch, but the recent social media activity from Honda Cars Philippines has certainly piqued our interest. The automaker published a Prelude video on its official channels, which could very well be a subtle hint of its potential arrival. The production version of the Prelude is slated for a near-future debut, with full specifications expected to be revealed soon. Should Honda decide to bring it to the Philippines, it would mean the local market could soon feature two sporty Honda models, with the iconic Civic Type R already available.
The prospect of having both the Civic Type R and the Prelude in the local lineup is an exciting one. It would cater to different segments of the performance-oriented market, offering both a high-performance hatchback and a stylish sports coupe. The Prelude’s return would also signify a renewed focus on driving pleasure and emotional connection in Honda’s product strategy, something that enthusiasts have long appreciated. Its blend of performance, design, and Honda’s renowned engineering expertise could make it a compelling alternative to established sports coupes in the market. The anticipation surrounding its potential launch is palpable, and we’re hopeful that Honda Philippines will recognize the opportunity to bring this exciting model to local shores.
Hyundai Palisade: Redefining Luxury SUVs
If 2024 was the year of performance-oriented models for Hyundai, 2025 might very well be the year of luxury. The redesigned Palisade has just made its global debut, and there’s a strong possibility of its introduction to the Philippines. While it may not be a high-volume seller, its presence in the local market would be significant. The Palisade represents the pinnacle of Hyundai’s SUV design language and technological prowess, showcasing the brand’s evolution into a serious contender in the premium segment.
The new-generation Palisade features a bold, futuristic design that sets it apart from its competitors. Its upscale interior, equipped with cutting-edge technology and premium materials, offers a level of comfort and refinement typically associated with luxury brands. We’re particularly hoping that the version introduced to the Philippines comes with a front bench seat option, which would enhance its versatility and appeal to families seeking maximum seating capacity. The Palisade would also benefit from Hyundai’s growing reputation for value, offering a compelling blend of luxury, technology, and practicality that could challenge established players in the full-size SUV segment. Its arrival would signal Hyundai’s commitment to competing at the highest levels of the automotive market.
Hyundai Staria Hybrid: Electrifying the MPV Segment
While diesel engines continue to dominate the large van segment in the Philippines, Hyundai possesses the potential to inject a significant dose of innovation into the market. This potential could be fully realized if the local subsidiary decides to bring in the Staria Hybrid in 2025. Already available in South Korea, Oceania, and Europe, the Staria Hybrid offers a glimpse into the future of passenger transport, blending the spaciousness and versatility of a van with the efficiency and refinement of a hybrid powertrain.
The question of its availability in Southeast Asia remains uncertain, but given that the Philippines is one of the largest markets for the standard Staria in the region, it’s worth considering the electrified version. The Staria Hybrid addresses key consumer concerns regarding fuel consumption and emissions, particularly for commercial operators and large families who rely on multi-purpose vehicles. By offering a hybrid option, Hyundai could provide a compelling alternative to traditional diesel vans, potentially capturing a significant share of the market. Its innovative design and advanced technology would also help position Hyundai as a leader in automotive innovation in the Philippines, further strengthening its brand image and market presence.
Isuzu Mu-X: Benefiting from D-Max Success
Following the successful launch of the heavily updated D-Max, it seems highly probable that the new-generation Isuzu Mu-X will land in the country sometime in 2025. Even with this expectation, the excitement surrounding the model’s arrival remains undiminished. This anticipation is largely driven by the positive reception of the D-Max, which has set a high benchmark for the SUV variant.
We’re particularly hopeful that the Mu-X will inherit all the significant upgrades now featured in the D-Max. These enhancements are expected to include a refreshed exterior design, a more modern and technologically advanced interior, and potentially even powertrain improvements. The current-generation Mu-X, while still a strong contender in the SUV market, is due for a comprehensive update to maintain its competitive edge. A new-generation model that aligns with the improvements seen in the D-Max would undoubtedly be a game-changer, offering enhanced performance, safety, and comfort. The prospect of driving the latest iteration of this popular SUV is something we’re genuinely looking forward to, as it represents a significant step forward for Isuzu in the Philippine market.
Lexus LBX Morizo RR: Rally Car DNA in a Premium Package
Speaking of exciting new car models in the Philippines for 2025, our wish list includes the Lexus LBX Morizo RR. This particular model possesses all the ingredients that make it a potential winner. It combines the practicality of a subcompact crossover body with the high-performance mechanicals of the Toyota GR Yaris, creating a unique and compelling proposition in the market.
The LBX Morizo RR essentially packages rally car DNA into a more accessible and refined format. It retains the agile handling and spirited performance characteristics of the GR Yaris while offering the comfort and usability of a premium crossover. This combination is particularly appealing to buyers who desire a vehicle that can handle both
