10 iconic 90s cars that ruled the roads in the Philippines

Take a trip down memory lane with the 10 iconic 90s cars that captured the hearts of Filipinos.

The 1990s marked a significant rise in car ownership in the Philippines, with a variety of models becoming iconic for their affordability, reliability, and widespread appeal. From sleek sedans to durable SUVs, these cars defined an era of style, practicality, and dependability on the roads of the Philippines. Join us as we revisit the 10 iconic 90s cars that won the hearts of Filipinos.

Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla (6th and 7th Generation, AE92 'Small Body' and AE101 'Big Body') quickly became a beloved icon on Filipino roads in the 90s. Why? It was affordable, reliable, and insanely fuel-efficient—perfect for the Filipino family looking for practicality without breaking the bank. Known for its low-maintenance nature, easy access to spare parts, and virtually indestructible engine, the Corolla earned its place as the go-to car for first-time buyers and growing families. 

Whether it was the compact 'Small Body' or the more spacious 'Big Body,' this ride was built to last, making it a trusted companion for everyday adventures across the Philippines.

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic (5th and 6th Generation, EG and EK) — and let’s not forget the legendary Civic SiR — took the Philippine streets by storm in the 90s. Known for its unbeatable combo of performance, affordability, and reliability, this car was a dream come true for every driving enthusiast.

The heart-pounding VTEC engine turned every ride into an adventure, while its sleek, sporty design caught the eyes of everyone on the road. Add in incredible fuel efficiency, easy modifiability, and a price tag that didn’t break the bank, and it’s no surprise the Civic quickly became a favorite among Filipinos. With its rock-solid resale value and undeniable cultural icon status, the Civic SiR and its brothers cemented their place as one of the most beloved and respected cars in the country. It's not just a car; it's a legend.

Honda Accord

The Honda Accord (5th Generation) quickly became the go-to car for professionals and executives in the Philippines. With its sleek, timeless design and smooth performance, it offered a premium experience without the hefty price tag. Spacious, comfortable, and packed with advanced features, the Accord was the perfect blend of style and substance. It wasn’t just a car; it was a statement—showing the world you’ve arrived, while still being practical for daily use.

Mitsubishi Lancer

The Mitsubishi Lancer, especially the 6th and 7th generations, became an iconic car in the Philippines, admired for its durability, elegant design, and strong performance. Filipinos affectionately gave the 6th gen Lancer the nickname “Itlog” (Egg) because its rear lights resembled the shape of an egg. Meanwhile, the 7th gen earned the moniker “Pizza,” thanks to rear lights that looked like a slice of pizza. These Lancer models have become beloved staples in Filipino car culture, praised for their distinctive designs and reliable performance.

The 2nd gen Lancer, known as the "Boxtype," was equally popular, especially among older adults and car enthusiasts, thanks to its sturdy build and boxy shape, making it a favorite for both daily drivers and car aficionados.

Nissan Sentra

The Nissan Sentra (3rd Generation, B13) quickly became a Filipino favorite in the 90s, offering a perfect mix of affordability, fuel efficiency, and reliability. With its sleek design and roomy interior, it was the go-to car for families and first-time buyers looking for a practical ride that wouldn’t break the bank. 

But what really made the Sentra B13 stand out? Its air-conditioning! Known for having the coldest AC in the Philippines, it was a lifesaver in the hot, tropical climate. Low maintenance and long-lasting, the Sentra B13 became a trusted, everyday companion that Filipinos loved and relied on for years.

Toyota Tamaraw FX

The Toyota Tamaraw FX became a staple in the Philippines, especially for public transport, thanks to its affordability, durability, and reliability. It quickly earned its place as the go-to ride for Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs). With a spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and a sturdy build, it was perfect for family trips and business needs. 

Whether transporting passengers or hauling goods, the Tamaraw FX was always up for the job. This iconic vehicle won the hearts of Filipinos and became an unforgettable part of our everyday lives.

Mitsubishi L300 Versa Van

The Mitsubishi L300 Versa Van and FB (family business) cab variant became a Filipino favorite for their unbeatable practicality, reliability, and versatility. Whether transporting families or running a small business, the L300’s spacious interior made it the go-to vehicle for everyday use. 

The L300 was one of the backbones of public transport, alongside the Toyota Tamaraw FX, seen everywhere as a hardworking workhorse. With low maintenance, fuel efficiency, and long-lasting durability, the L300 was more than just a vehicle – it was a trusted partner in both family life and business, winning the hearts of Filipinos across the country.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V (1st Generation) quickly won the hearts of young Filipino adults for its unbeatable combo of practicality, reliability, and affordability. As one of the first compact SUVs in the Philippines, it was the perfect mix of comfort and fuel efficiency, ideal for both city life and spontaneous weekend getaways. 

With its spacious interior and solid performance on everything from urban streets to bumpy backroads, the CR-V became the go-to ride for adventure seekers who needed a dependable companion. It wasn’t just a car; it was the perfect starting point for anyone’s car ownership journey, offering freedom, reliability, and a taste of the road ahead.

Mitsubishi Pajero

The Mitsubishi Pajero (2nd Generation), especially the Fieldmaster, wasn’t just a car — it was a statement. For affluent Filipinos, it quickly became the go-to vehicle that screamed success, status, and adventure. With its rugged performance, sleek design, and rock-solid reliability, the Pajero excelled both on city streets and off-road terrains.

Inside, it offered ample space and premium features, making it perfect for family trips or exploring the great outdoors in style. This luxury 4x4 was more than just a ride; it was a symbol of power and prestige, and its lasting appeal made it one of the most coveted vehicles on the road.

Isuzu Trooper

The Isuzu Trooper (2nd Generation) became a beloved ride in the Philippines, known for its rugged off-road capabilities and spacious interior. Whether navigating city streets or tackling tough terrains, it offered versatility that made it perfect for adventurous families, business owners, and off-road enthusiasts alike.

With its sturdy build and reliable performance, the Trooper quickly earned a reputation as the go-to SUV for Filipinos seeking both durability and practicality, making it a top choice for those ready to take on any road.