Small hatchbacks are one of the hottest segments in the Philippine automotive scene. Not only are automobiles in this category affordable but some of them are well-appointed.
Two of the most sought-after nameplates in the small hatchback segment are the Toyota Wigo and the recently-launched Suzuki S-Presso AGS. Interested to see whether the former or the latter best suits your budget, style, and motoring needs? Join us to find out.
The Suzuki S-Presso AGS measures 3,565 millimeters (mm) long, 1,520mm wide, and 1,657mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2,380mm and a ground clearance of 180mm.
As for the Toyota Wigo, it has an overall length of 6,660mm, width of 1,600mm, and height of 1,520mm. Its wheelbase is 2,450mm and its minimum ground clearance is 180mm.
Outside, the Suzuki S-Presso AGS dons the same appointments as the non-Auto Gear Shift (AGS)-equipped model.
Found at the front is its Suzuki Jimmy-like five-slot grille flanked by multi-reflector halogen headlamps. On each headlight is an integrated turn signal.
The side profile is highlighted by body-colored power side mirrors, black B- and C-pillars, and a pair of 14-inch machine-finished alloy wheels in a 12-spoke design.
At the back, the Suzuki S-Presso AGS features a pair of C-shaped taillamps, two reflectors, and a high-mount stop lamp tucked under its discreet roof-integrated spoiler.
On the other hand, the Toyota Wigo gets a large grille with a honeycomb design that looks like the ones found on its larger siblings — namely the Yaris and Raize. On each side are projector halogen headlamps complemented by fog lamps.
Like its rival, the Toyota Wigo also gets body-colored side mirrors (with repeaters), blacked-out B- and C-pillars, and 14-inch wheels.
Its rear end gets aggressive-looking combination taillamps, a high-mount third brake lamp, and an inconspicuous spoiler.
Those who want something that looks sportier can opt to get the Toyota Racing Development (TRD)-S variant. It comes straight out of the factory with a front spoiler, side skirts, a rear skirt, a two-tone rear spoiler, as well as a TRD-S badge and decals.
While the Toyota Wigo does offer something more with the TRD-S model, we recognize that both cars represent two different styles. The Suzuki S-Presso AGS will likely appeal to those outgoing car buyers while the Wigo might look like a more viable option to those who want a sportier ride.
On that note, we’re calling this round a tie.
Inside, the Suzuki S-Presso AGS features decent, yet impressive amenities like its comfortable fabric seats, its three-spoke urethane steering wheel, and its urethane-finished shifter.
In the middle of the dashboard is a digital instrument cluster and a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Further, the Suzuki S-Presso AGS does come with audio and smartphone controls on the steering wheel and a built-in overhead microphone, so drivers can make calls without removing their hands from the steering wheel.
Likewise, the Toyota Wigo offers economy-class interior features like fabric seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a shifter wade with the same urethane material.
Keeping the driver informed is an instrument cluster with both analog and digital gauges. Tasked with passenger entertainment is a touchscreen infotainment display — also with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Similarly, controls for audio and connected smartphones can be found on the steering wheel of the Toyota Wigo. It lacks, however, the built-in overhead microphone offered by the Suzuki S-Presso AGS.
Slightly edging its contender in terms of interior features, we give this round to the Suzuki S-Presso AGS.
Powering the Suzuki S-Presso AGS is a 1.0-liter Dualjet engine mated to the brand’s AGS transmission. Together, this setup makes 66 horsepower and 89 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque.
Alternatively, the Suzuki S-Presso can be had in a five-speed manual gearbox that delivers the same power and torque figures.
Toyota, in the same respect, slapped the Wigo with a 1.0-liter powerplant that puts out as much as 65 to 66 horses with 89Nm of pulling power.
It can be mated to either a five-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic transmission.
With figures that are virtually identical, we will call this round a tie.
In terms of safety, the Suzuki S-Presso AGS comes with standard features like airbags and seatbelts, an anti-lock brake system (ABS), an electronic stability program, hill hold control, rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX tethers.
Not to be outdone, Toyota gave the Wigo a host of similar safety features like a suite of airbags and seatbelts, ABS, rear parking sensors, a rear camera, a dashboard camera, a wireless door lock, and ISOFIX tethers.
Both cars are neck and neck in this round. On that note, we’re calling this one another tie.
Suzuki S-Presso AGS — P660,000
Toyota Wigo VVT-I G AT — P684,000
With a more updated interior and a more affordable price tag, the victor of this showdown is the Suzuki S-Presso AGS.
Nevertheless, the Toyota Wigo still makes for a great choice for many car buyers. Its proven Toyota reliability and its readily available spare parts make it an appealing option for those looking for a dependable daily driver.
Photos from Suzuki, Toyota, Juan Paulo Papa, and Ruben Manahan IV
Also read:
Suzuki PH eyes to sell 400 S-Presso AGS units monthly
Incoming Suzuki S-Presso AGS showcased at 2023 Auto Focus Summer Test Drive Festival
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