Sedan, Hatchback, or SUV: Tips for Choosing Your Ideal Car

For many Filipinos, buying a car is a milestone, a life event to be proud of. Whether it’s your first vehicle or a long-awaited upgrade, having a car offers invaluable convenience and a sense of personal progress.

Still, for most Filipinos, their car also represents one of their biggest financial commitments, right alongside education and property ownership. Even top earners can find it difficult to shoulder the cost of their dream car without a bit of help.

Auto loans have long been a practical way to turn this aspiration into reality. EastWest’s flexible auto loan offerings make it simple to finance your preferred vehicle, be it brand-new or secondhand.

But while securing financing is important, choosing the right vehicle for your needs is just as crucial, if not more so. After all, no amount of financing will compensate for the frustration of a car that simply doesn’t suit your lifestyle.

Wherever you are in your car ownership journey, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll walk you through key tips in picking your ideal car.

1. Understand What You’ll Use the Car For

Before choosing a specific model, think about how the car will fit into your daily life. Are you going to be doing some daily city driving, or will you be using the vehicle more for weekend family trips? If the answer is the former, a compact hatchback or sedan might be better, especially if you’re consistently navigating the tight spaces of Metro Manila. Meanwhile, a midsize SUV or crossover could serve you well on provincial roads or long family outings. With a lot at stake, you want to let practicality, not emotions, guide your decision.

2. Factor in Fuel and Maintenance Costs

A car’s purchase price is only the beginning. Fuel consumption, maintenance, and repair costs can often represent bigger costs over the lifetime of the vehicle. If you’re limiting the choices to conventionally powered vehicles, smaller sedans and hatchbacks generally offer better mileage and lower maintenance expenses, making them ideal for budget-conscious buyers. 

However, newer electric vehicles (EVs) may offer even more savings in the long run. With fewer moving parts and no need for fuel, EVs can theoretically reduce both maintenance and running costs. That said, upfront prices remain higher, and charging infrastructure isn’t always available in every location, so be sure to weigh these factors carefully.

3. Set a Realistic Budget Before Visiting a Dealership

In some ways, driving off a dealership with a car is easier than ever before. Down payments and amortization costs for some cars have gotten astonishingly low over the years. However, these are hardly the only things to include in your budget. You’ll also need to consider registration, insurance, and running costs.

EastWest offers flexible auto loan terms, from 12 to 60 months, allowing you to easily spread out important payments. You can also borrow up to 80% of the car’s purchase price, making all the different upfront costs easier to handle. Click here to apply.

4. Evaluate Space and Seating Based on Your Household

If you have young children or regularly drive with passengers, an SUV or van might be more appropriate. Single drivers or couples may find a hatchback or a compact sedan more than sufficient. If you have to take care of a PWD or an elderly individual, a full-size sedan or a low-entry van with wide doors and easy step-in access might ensure greater comfort and mobility.

5. Don’t Overlook Safety Features and Driving Comfort

In the Philippines, chances are high that you’ll be spending hours in traffic or driving long distances, which means your safety and comfort matter a huge deal. Look for features such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS), airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), rear cameras, and ISOFIX anchors for child seats. Though certain safety and comfort features may cost more, these extras often pay off when it comes to your insurance premiums and your peace of mind.

6. Explore Both Brand-New and Pre-Owned Options

Brand-new vehicles can give you peace of mind thanks to their full warranties. However, pre-owned cars can be more cost-effective if you're willing to dive into the ins and outs of car ownership. A welcome middle ground would be reputable dealers and manufacturer-certified pre-owned programs. Remember that you can take out an EastWest auto loan for brand-new and used cars, so you can choose whichever path works best for your situation.

7. Apply for Financing Before You Shop Around

Securing pre-approval for an auto loan can make the buying process faster and smoother. You’ll get more room in your budget as well as a bit more leverage when negotiating with dealerships. With EastWest, you can enjoy competitive interest rates, fast approvals, and a wide selection of accredited car dealers to choose from.

8. Think Ahead: Will This Car Still Suit You in Five Years?

A car is a long-term commitment. At the very least, you should expect your car to last at least five years, if not significantly longer. A lot can change in that time, and it’s best if your car remains usable throughout these shifts.

Before you commit, consider how your lifestyle might change. If you will be starting a family, moving to a different city, or taking on new responsibilities, the vehicle you pick needs to satisfy the needs that come with these transitions. Thankfully, an EastWest auto loan can help you afford a slightly higher tier of car now, saving you from upgrading again too soon.

Drive Your Dream Car with Help from EastWest Bank

Choosing the right car becomes far less stressful when you’re supported by smart financing. With EastWest’s auto loan, you can choose the type of vehicle that gets you closest to your goals, with fewer compromises. Whether you’re after fuel efficiency, family comfort, or the thrill of finally owning your first ride, EastWest helps you drive home the car that truly fits your lifestyle.

Visit EastWest’s auto loan page or speak to a representative at your nearest EastWest Bank branch to get started on your application.