What used to be fully equipped small sedans in the P 700,000 range are already in the P 900,000 ballpark while choices in the P 600,000-plus category are mostly tiny hatchbacks.

But did you know that for just under P 700,000, you can get a crossover that gives you the confidence to negotiate Manila’s roads?

That is the P 695,000 Chery Tiggo 2 (P 770,000 for the automatic).

Already one of the most affordable new cars, crossovers or otherwise, in the market, until March 2021, it comes with an additional P 90,000 cash discount.

For financing buyers, it’s also being offered with a low monthly amortization package of just P 5,655 per month thanks to the CHERY-fic OX-some deals New Year promo.

The Tiggo 2 is powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, and boasts of a generous wheelbase of 2,555 mm.

Its upmarket design features LED daytime running lights and can be had with a stylish two-tone black-top finish that combine with red, orange, blue, or white lower body colors. This same two-tone scheme is found inside with its sporty orange-and-black combination (plus P 25,000 over the AT).

Cargo space is commodious at 420 liters, and may be further expanded, thanks to the 60/40 split-folding rear seats. It’s also highly versatile with 21 storage spaces found throughout the cabin. For infotainment, there's an 8-inch touchscreen that not only mirrors Android or Apple smartphones, but can also playback videos.

Despite its budget-friendly price, the Tiggo 2 doesn’t compromise on safety. It comes with dual SRS airbags, ABS, with EBD, electronic stability control with hill hold control, real-time tire pressure monitoring, as well as rear parking sensors with a reverse camera. It even has an overspeeding alarm.

The Chery Tiggo 2 is also covered by the most generous warranty program in the industry with its 5-year general vehicle warranty and 10-year engine warranty. Ownership is also worry-free with its free 3-year roadside assistance and free 3-year preventive maintenance service.

Read our review of the Chery Tiggo 2 here.