The winners: 2nd AutoIndustriya.com Editors’ Picks and Car of The Year
AutoIndustriya.com recognizes outstanding vehicles launched in 2023
The Philippine auto industry reached new milestones last year – with a strong annual sales total (441,408 units) and posting 12 straight months of sales growth.
Several factors contributed to improved market conditions, including a more reliable automotive supply chain, faster access to credit, and continuous strong consumer demand. That explains why buyers saw more new model introductions and electrified options.
Of the many nameplates launched in 2023, we have narrowed it down to the top eight models that had the most impact on motorists and the Philippine automotive landscape. Without further ado, here are the AutoIndustriya.com 2023 Editors’ Picks.
2023 AutoIndustriya.com Editors’ Picks – Electrified Drive
Electrified Drive Category Winner: Honda CR-V e:HEV
Finalists: GWM Haval H6 HEV, MG4 Hatchback EV
The driving dynamics and mechanical refinement of the CR-V e:HEV feels like your typical Honda, which is good when it comes to familiarity. The hybrid system itself also posts good fuel efficiency numbers considering the CR-V’s not known for being frugal. And lastly, it’s one of the few models we’ve tested where the electrified model feels more fun to drive than its standard ICE counterpart.
2023 AutoIndustriya.com Editors’ Picks Premium Electrified Drive
Premium Electrified Drive Category Winner: BMW iX3
Finalists: Hyundai IONIQ 5, Lexus RZ450e
The iX3, is an example of BMW fully utilizing the X3 platform where the all-electric does not, in any way, feel too different. The iX3 delivers the same convenience, the same driving manners of a normal ICE-powered X3, but with an electric motor powering it.
2023 AutoIndustriya.com Editors’ Picks - Family Mover
Family Mover Category Winner: GAC GS8
Finalists: Toyota Zenix, Changan X7 Plus
The GS8 is a comfortable, refined, and well-thought-out SUV for the family. Most even compare it to the likes of the Explorer, and to much bigger vehicles like the Land Cruiser and the Patrol with its luxurious appointments and curb appeal. For the GS8 to be spoken in almost the same manner as those vehicles mentioned while having half the price tag, speaks volumes about how well GAC has executed the GS8.
2023 AutoIndustriya.com Editors’ Picks - Adventure Vehicle
The Ranger Raptor edges out the competition because it has provisions all over the vehicle making it ready to receive upgrades and 4x4 accessories. It's also no surprise that the things we liked about our last year’s winner, the Ranger Wildtrak, are still very much present in the Raptor.
2023 AutoIndustriya.com Editors’ Picks - Smiles Per Gallon
Smiles Per Gallon Category Winner: Nissan Z
Finalists: Honda Civic Type R, Subaru WRX Wagon
Quite simply, the Nissan Z impresses with its new turbocharged V6 engine, while retaining the sharpness and the organic feel of the older 370Z. It has the makings of a proper Japanese grand tourer, but it also possesses a solid chassis that communicates to the driver.
2023 AutoIndustriya.com Editors’ Picks – Best Value for PHP 999k Max
Best Value for PHP 999k Max Category Winner: Toyota Wigo
Finalists: Geely GX3 Pro, Jetour Ice Cream EV
The all-new Wigo has improved in so many aspects. It’s bigger and much more spacious inside. It has a bit more refinement versus its predecessor, and is much more fuel-efficient than before. In typical Wigo fashion, the pricing is still good even after inflation. This is important as every bit of peso counts in this price point.
2023 AutoIndustriya.com Editors’ Picks - Best Value for PHP 1.599M Max
Best Value for PHP 1.599M Max Category Winner – Ford Territory
Finalists – Toyota Yaris Cross, MG4 Hatchback EV
Ford has made the most out of the all-new Territory. New platform, bigger in size, even more features, more refinement and not to mention, a Ford design from the ground up is just what the doctor ordered in keeping the Territory as one of the Blue Oval’s best-selling models in the Philippines.
2023 AutoIndustriya.com Editors’ Picks – Car of the Year
Car of the Year: GAC GS3 Emzoom
Finalists: Honda CR-V, Ford Territory
The GS3 Emzoom took things up a notch in the segment with some new features we never truly expected from a vehicle of this class. Crossovers with turbo engines, DCTs, panoramic sunroofs, smartphone connectivity and posh interiors are a dime a dozen in the market, but things like variable exhausts, hidden door handles, low profile, high-performance tires, and a dedicated Sport mode complete with digital gauge clusters are things you can only find in the GAC GS3 Emzoom depending on the variant. But more importantly, the cherry on top is the PHP 1.198 million price tag.
