Hyundai Grand Starex CRDi VGT GLS (10 seater) MT (2015) vs Jetour Dashing Symphony (2023)

Hyundai Grand Starex CRDi VGT GLS (10 seater) MT (2015) vs Jetour Dashing Symphony (2023): which should you buy?

For a Filipino buyer who needs a work‑horse people‑mover, the 2015 Hyundai Grand Starex CRDi VGT GLS is the clear choice. It seats up to 10 passengers, has a robust 2.5‑litre turbo‑diesel delivering 170 PS and a massive 392 Nm of torque at low revs, making it ideal for hauling families or cargo on highways and city streets. Its body‑on‑frame construction and RWD layout add durability for heavy loads, and the 5‑speed manual gives driver control over torque delivery. Although discontinued, its price of ₱1,563,000 is only slightly higher than the newer Jetour Dashing Symphony, which seats just 5 (2 + 3) and offers a 1.5‑litre gasoline engine with 156 PS and 230 Nm – sufficient for everyday commuting but far less suited for high‑capacity transport. The Jetour’s unibody, FWD design and automatic 6‑speed transmission provide a smoother ride and lower fuel‑type cost, but its lower power, torque, and seating limit its practicality for large families or commercial use. If you prioritize passenger capacity, torque for load‑carrying, and a proven, rugged platform, go with the Grand Starex. If you only need a compact SUV for a small family and prefer an automatic, the Jetour offers a newer design at a marginally lower price.