The 10 Most Popular Top Gear PH Car Reviews of 2021: A Deep Dive into the Hottest Rides That Captured the Filipino Automotive Enthusiast’s Imagination
The year 2021 was a watershed moment for the Philippine automotive industry. Emerging from the shadows of the 2020 lockdowns, the market witnessed a resurgence of activity that defied expectations. Car brands, both established giants and ambitious newcomers, launched a flurry of new and updated models, injecting a much-needed dose of excitement into a landscape that had been starved of innovation. As a seasoned industry observer with a decade of experience navigating the ever-evolving world of automobiles, I witnessed firsthand the transformation of the local car scene. It was a period where accessibility met aspiration, where technology merged seamlessly with practicality, and where consumers were presented with choices that catered to an increasingly diverse set of needs and desires.
In this comprehensive analysis, we will delve into the top 10 most-viewed car reviews from TopGear.com.ph in 2021, exploring the factors that contributed to their popularity and the insights they offered into the prevailing automotive trends of the era. We will revisit the vehicles that captured the imagination of Filipino motorists, examining their features, performance, and market positioning. This deep dive will not only celebrate the automotive highlights of 2021 but also provide valuable context for understanding the current state of the Philippine car market and the trajectories that will shape its future.
The Reigning Champion: 2021 Toyota Fortuner 4×2 G AT
Topping the charts at number one is the 2021 Toyota Fortuner 4×2 G AT. This shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone familiar with the Philippine automotive landscape. The Fortuner has long been the undisputed king of the midsize PPV (Passenger Pickup Vehicle) segment, commanding a level of brand loyalty and market dominance that few competitors can even dream of. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Toyota’s strategic positioning, its understanding of the Filipino consumer’s psyche, and its ability to deliver a product that strikes the perfect balance between ruggedness, comfort, and prestige.
The 4×2 G AT variant, in particular, represents the sweet spot for the majority of buyers. It offers the commanding presence and practicality of the Fortuner nameplate without the added expense and complexity of a four-wheel-drive system, which many urban dwellers simply don’t need. The ‘G’ trim level strikes a judicious balance between features and affordability, providing buyers with a well-equipped vehicle that feels premium without crossing into the luxury price bracket. The automatic transmission makes it an ideal choice for city driving, where the stop-and-go traffic can be a significant drain on the driver’s energy.
What truly sets the Fortuner apart, as our review highlighted, is its ability to deliver a comprehensive package that appeals to a wide range of buyers. The interior, often a point of contention in previous generations, received a significant upgrade in 2021. The new touchscreen infotainment system provided a much-needed dose of modernity, offering seamless connectivity and entertainment options that are now considered standard in the automotive world. The intuitive instrument cluster enhanced the driving experience, providing crucial information in a clear and easily accessible manner. The inclusion of a backup camera, a feature that has become a near-necessity for drivers navigating tight urban spaces, further solidified the Fortuner’s position as a practical and user-friendly vehicle.
The review’s assertion that “packages like this should be the standard for base variants” resonates deeply with the evolving expectations of the modern consumer. In 2021, buyers were no longer willing to settle for bare-bones offerings, even in the entry-level trims of popular models. They demanded a certain level of comfort, convenience, and technology, reflecting the increasing integration of digital life into all aspects of their existence. The Fortuner 4×2 G AT, by delivering on these expectations, demonstrated that manufacturers could offer compelling value propositions without compromising on essential features. This approach not only appeased existing customers but also attracted new buyers who might have previously been drawn to competitors offering more modern amenities.
The Enduring Legacy: 2021 Toyota Hilux Conquest 2.8 4×4 AT
Following closely behind the Fortuner is its pickup truck sibling, the 2021 Toyota Hilux Conquest 2.8 4×4 AT. The Hilux is a legend in its own right, a name synonymous with toughness, reliability, and go-anywhere capability. For decades, it has been the workhorse of choice for farmers, contractors, adventurers, and anyone who needs a vehicle that can withstand the rigors of Philippine roads and terrain. The Conquest variant, in particular, represents the pinnacle of the Hilux lineup, blending rugged off-road prowess with a level of comfort and refinement that makes it a viable option for daily driving.
The Hilux Conquest 2.8 4×4 AT, as our review pointed out, offers perhaps the most comfortable all-around package in the midsize-pickup segment. While it retains the robust chassis and suspension that have made the Hilux a legend, it also incorporates features that enhance the driving experience for those who use it as a family vehicle. The 2.8-liter diesel engine provides ample power for both hauling heavy loads and cruising on the highway, while the four-wheel-drive system ensures that drivers can tackle challenging terrain with confidence. The automatic transmission, a key factor in its popularity, makes it a breeze to drive in urban environments where constant gear changes can be tiresome.
What makes the Hilux Conquest a compelling choice for a wide range of buyers is its ability to straddle the line between work and play. It is a vehicle that can be used to haul construction materials during the week and then transformed into a comfortable companion for a weekend getaway to the beach or the mountains. This versatility is a key selling point in the Philippine market, where many households own multiple vehicles, each serving a specific purpose. The Hilux Conquest, with its dual-purpose nature, can effectively fill the role of both a workhorse and a family vehicle, offering significant value to buyers who need a vehicle that can do it all.
The review’s observation that the Hilux Conquest “compensates by providing a vehicle that’s just as capable of carrying heavy loads as it is ferrying you within city limits” perfectly encapsulates its appeal. While some might consider it a bit “spartan in some aspects” compared to more luxurious offerings, its core strengths lie in its fundamental capabilities. For the target demographic, these strengths far outweigh the lack of certain premium features. The peace of mind that comes with owning a Hilux, a vehicle known for its legendary durability and reliability, is a significant factor in its enduring popularity.
The King of Its Own Domain: 2021 Toyota Innova 2.8 V Diesel AT
Another Toyota behemoth that dominated the 2021 car scene is the 2021 Toyota Innova 2.8 V Diesel AT. In the Philippine automotive landscape, the Innova is more than just a vehicle; it’s an institution. For years, it has been the undisputed king of the MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment, a name that is practically synonymous with family transportation. Its dominance is so profound that it has created a category of its own, with competitors often struggling to gain a significant foothold in a market that has been thoroughly captured by Toyota.
The Innova’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to deliver exactly what Filipino families need. It offers seating for seven or even eight passengers, providing ample space for large families or for those who frequently transport extended family members or friends. The diesel engine offers a compelling combination of power and fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for both city driving and long road trips. The automatic transmission further enhances its appeal, making it a comfortable and stress-free vehicle to drive, even in heavy traffic.
Our review’s question, “So, is the Innova still the king of its own domain?” is met with a resounding “yes.” Despite the lack of direct competitors that can truly challenge its position, the Innova remains a solid choice for families and for anyone who needs to move a significant number of people. Its reputation for reliability and durability is second to none, providing buyers with the peace of mind that comes from owning a vehicle that is known to last for years with proper maintenance.
What truly sets the Innova apart, as the review highlights, is its ability to be considered a superior family car even when compared to some midsize SUVs. While it may not possess the same “badass” styling as some of its competitors, it makes up for it with a driving experience that is both enjoyable and practical. The cabin is spacious and comfortable, providing a pleasant environment for passengers on both short and long journeys. The Innova’s ability to function effectively as both a city car and a highway cruiser makes it an incredibly versatile vehicle for Filipino families who experience a wide range of driving conditions.
The Pinnacle of Luxury in the PPV Segment: 2021 Toyota Fortuner 2.8 4×4 LTD
Returning to the Fortuner, but this time at its most luxurious iteration, we have the 2021 Toyota Fortuner 2.8 4×4 LTD. The ‘LTD’ designation signifies the Limited variant, which represents the top-of-the-line offering in the Fortuner lineup. This variant is designed for buyers who want the ultimate Fortuner experience, one that combines the vehicle’s inherent ruggedness and capability with a level of luxury and refinement that rivals more expensive SUVs.
The Fortuner LTD, as our review notes, is a “fine stab at the new ‘luxury’ PPV class.” This designation reflects the growing trend of manufacturers offering premium versions of their
