Vietnam’s SUV market is booming, driven by growing middle-class aspirations, improved infrastructure, and rising disposable incomes. By 2025, the market is projected to reach US$3 billion, with compact and mid-size SUVs leading the way. Buyers are prioritizing spacious interiors, safety features, fuel efficiency, and eco-friendly options like hybrids and EVs. Here’s a quick look at the top SUV choices:
- VinFast VF 3: Vietnam’s most affordable electric SUV starting at ₫240M, perfect for city commutes with zero fuel costs.
- VinFast VF 5: A step up in size and range, starting at ₫345M.
- Toyota Fortuner: A reliable 7-seater for families, offering diesel and petrol options.
- Hyundai Creta: Compact yet feature-packed, priced at ₫715M with excellent fuel efficiency.
- Mitsubishi Xforce: A rugged 5-seater with prices between ₫599M–₫705M.
- Isuzu MU-X 2025: A durable 7-seater with diesel engines, priced from ₫928M.
- Jaecoo J7 PHEV: A hybrid SUV with fuel consumption as low as 1L/100km, priced from ₫729M.
- Geely Coolray: A budget-friendly urban SUV starting at ₫538M.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Price Range (₫) | Fuel Efficiency | Seating | Engine Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VinFast VF 3 | 240M–322M | Electric (9 kWh/100km) | 4 | Electric | Budget-friendly EV |
| VinFast VF 5 | 345M | Electric (260 km range) | 5 | Electric | Family-friendly EV |
| Toyota Fortuner | TBA | 11–14 km/L (diesel) | 7 | Diesel/Petrol | Large families, tough roads |
| Hyundai Creta | 715M | 17.4–21.8 km/L | 5 | Petrol | Compact and efficient |
| Mitsubishi Xforce | 599M–705M | 6.18 L/100km | 5 | Petrol | Urban and rural versatility |
| Isuzu MU-X 2025 | 928M–1.27B | 7.4–8.3 L/100km | 7 | Diesel | Long trips, durability |
| Jaecoo J7 PHEV | 729M–879M | 1.0–4.7 L/100km | 5 | Hybrid | Eco-conscious buyers |
| Geely Coolray | 538M–628M | 5.8 L/100km | 5 | Petrol | Affordable urban SUV |
Each SUV caters to different needs, from budget-conscious buyers to families needing extra space or eco-friendly options. Consider your priorities – price, efficiency, or features – before making a decision.
Cuộc đấu So sánh TOP 5 xe B SUV bán chạy nhất Xforce, Creta, Yaris Cross, Seltos, HR-V [Xe Đời Sống]
What Vietnamese SUV Buyers Should Consider
When choosing an SUV in Vietnam, it’s essential to weigh several factors that directly influence ownership satisfaction. From brand reputation to technology and affordability, every detail matters when selecting a vehicle that fits your lifestyle and budget. Here’s a breakdown of what to keep in mind:
Pricing and Payment Options
For most Vietnamese buyers, the sweet spot for a new car falls between 400 million and 1.2 billion VND, with the average purchase price hovering around 764.5 million VND. Interestingly, over half of buyers opt for installment payment plans, making SUVs a viable option for many middle-class families. Flexible financing options can make all the difference when upgrading to this popular vehicle category.
Fuel Efficiency
With fluctuating fuel prices, efficiency is a major factor. SUVs that consume 6–8 liters per 100 km during city driving are considered reasonable. Additionally, hybrid and electric SUVs are gaining traction, with nearly 70% of surveyed buyers expressing interest in these eco-friendly options. This trend highlights the growing environmental consciousness among Vietnamese consumers.
Ground Clearance and Road Conditions
Vietnam’s varied road conditions demand versatile vehicles. SUVs with a ground clearance of 200–220mm are well-suited for navigating urban streets, rural paths, and even seasonal flooding. This feature is particularly valuable in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, where monsoon rains can wreak havoc on lower-clearance vehicles.
Safety and Quality
Safety should never be compromised. Look for SUVs equipped with airbag systems, electronic stability control, and high safety ratings from international testing organizations. These features are essential for peace of mind, whether you’re driving in the city or on longer road trips.
Aftersales Support and Warranty
Long-term satisfaction often hinges on aftersales service and warranty coverage. Brands with extensive service networks are a smart choice, offering easier access to maintenance and repair services. For instance, VinFast operates 111 service workshops nationwide as of November 2024, ensuring comprehensive support for its customers.
"Unlike traditional automakers that prioritize sales figures, VinFast has adopted a customer-centric approach by investing heavily in after-sales services. This strategic move not only boosts sales but also fosters long-lasting relationships with customers."
Technology and Features
Modern SUVs come loaded with features like smartphone connectivity, navigation systems, and advanced driver assistance systems. Choose a model that balances practical features with your budget – prioritize what you truly need for your daily driving experience.
Purpose and Usage
Your driving habits should guide your choice. For instance, urban drivers may prioritize fuel efficiency and ease of parking, while long-distance travelers might value comfort and reliability. Understanding your primary use case will help narrow down the options.
Total Cost of Ownership
Beyond the upfront price, consider the total cost of ownership. This includes insurance, maintenance, spare parts, and depreciation. Some brands offer affordable maintenance packages or extended warranties that can offset the higher initial costs. Researching service intervals and typical expenses for your shortlisted models can help you avoid surprises down the road.
Market Outlook
The Vietnamese automotive market is expected to grow by 12% in 2025 compared to 2024. With manufacturers competing for market share, this could mean better deals and more options for buyers in the near future.
1. VinFast VF 3
The VinFast VF 3 has emerged as Vietnam’s most affordable electric SUV, designed to bring electric vehicles within reach of Vietnamese families. This compact mini-eSUV reflects VinFast’s determination to lead the local car market by offering EVs with a much lower cost of ownership compared to traditional petrol-powered cars.
Affordable Pricing Options
The VF 3 starts at 240 million VND without the battery or 322 million VND with the battery included.
For those opting out of buying the battery upfront, VinFast offers flexible monthly rental plans based on usage:
- 900,000 VND for under 1,500 km per month
- 1,200,000 VND for 1,500-2,500 km per month
- 2,000,000 VND for over 2,500 km per month.
This approach allows families to own an electric vehicle with an initial payment as low as 50-70 million VND, making it one of the most accessible options for Vietnamese households. Even when paid in full, the VF 3 costs about half the price of the most affordable petrol car on the market.
Cost Efficiency and Performance
Being fully electric, the VF 3 eliminates fuel costs entirely. According to VinFast, the vehicle consumes 13.95 kWh per 100 km, though independent tests under NEDC conditions suggest it may achieve even better efficiency at 9 kWh per 100 km.
To put this into perspective, the VF 3’s energy costs are about half of what an average A-segment petrol car incurs, which typically consumes 5.803 litres per 100 km. With an all-electric range of 210 km per charge, the VF 3 is ideal for daily urban commutes in Vietnam’s cities.
Built for Vietnamese Roads
The VF 3 is engineered to handle Vietnam’s diverse road conditions. Its mini-eSUV design offers ample ground clearance and 16-inch wheels, making it suitable for everything from smooth city streets to more rugged rural paths. Measuring approximately 3.19 x 1.68 x 1.62 metres, its compact size ensures easy navigation through crowded urban areas while maintaining the sturdiness of an SUV.
VinFast envisions the VF 3 as a potential "national vehicle", tailored to the needs of Vietnamese families:
"With its outstanding advantages of zero emissions, noise-free operation, environmental friendliness, and, most importantly, high safety standards, VF 3 has the potential to become the new ‘national vehicle’ for the Vietnamese people. It can help fulfil the ‘car dreams’ of millions of families while improving living standards and serving as a powerful catalyst for the widespread adoption of electric cars in Vietnam."
Key Features and Practicality
Despite its affordability, the VF 3 doesn’t compromise on essentials. The four-seater cabin is designed for maximum utility, offering 550 litres of cargo space when the second-row seats are folded flat. Additionally, the 10-inch touchscreen supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring modern connectivity.
With a driving range exceeding 200 km per charge, the VF 3 is well-suited for daily commutes in Vietnam’s cities. Its zero-emission operation and quiet driving experience align with the growing environmental awareness in urban areas, while its strong safety standards provide assurance for families transitioning from motorbikes to cars.
2. VinFast VF 5
Building on the success of the VF 3, VinFast has introduced the VF 5, a 5-seater electric crossover that combines the convenience of a city car with the ruggedness of an SUV – perfect for Vietnamese families.
Affordability
With a starting price of around VND 345 million, the VF 5 provides an accessible entry point into the world of electric vehicles, all without the added cost of import fees.
Fuel Efficiency
As a fully electric vehicle, the VF 5 eliminates petrol expenses entirely. It boasts an estimated range of 260 km under NEDC testing conditions, making it a practical choice for daily commutes or weekend getaways around Vietnam’s urban and suburban areas. Buyers can choose between two battery options – 29.6 kWh or 37.23 kWh – allowing flexibility to match their driving habits and budget.
Built for Vietnam’s Roads
The VF 5 is designed to handle Vietnam’s diverse road conditions with ease. Its 2,514 mm wheelbase ensures a stable ride on highways while maintaining excellent maneuverability in crowded city streets.
Performance-wise, the standard version features an electric motor delivering 94 hp, achieving 0–100 km/h in under 14 seconds. The VF 5 Plus offers a more powerful motor with 134 hp, reaching 0–100 km/h in 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 130 km/h. This blend of agility and power makes it well-suited for both urban and long-distance driving.
Key Features
The VF 5 is packed with features that prioritize safety, convenience, and technology for families:
- 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Safety systems like ABS, EBD, Vehicle Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist, and multiple airbags
- Rear parking sensors, a camera, and park assist for stress-free parking
- Practical additions like 260 litres of boot space, ISOFIX mounts for child seats, tyre pressure monitoring, and speed-sensing door locks
Much like the VF 3, the VF 5 is tailored to meet the everyday needs of Vietnamese families. Its thoughtful design and robust feature set reflect VinFast’s dedication to delivering a modern electric vehicle experience while ensuring practicality and comfort.
3. Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner continues to be a top pick among SUV enthusiasts in Vietnam, thanks to its sturdy build, reliable engineering, and ability to handle tough road conditions. Its performance is backed by efficient fuel usage and a suite of safety features designed for peace of mind.
Fuel Efficiency
For those keeping an eye on fuel consumption, the diesel version of the Fortuner offers an impressive range of 11–14 km/l, depending on the transmission and driving conditions. Meanwhile, the petrol variant provides a range of 7–10 km/l.
Built for Vietnam’s Roads
The Fortuner is designed to tackle Vietnam’s varied terrain with ease. It comes equipped with features like Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control System (TCS), and Hill Hold Control (HHC). These systems work together to provide better stability, especially on steep inclines or slippery roads.
Key Features
Safety is a priority in the Fortuner, which proudly holds a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating. It includes comprehensive airbag coverage, advanced braking systems, and ISOFIX anchors for securely installing child seats.
On the tech side, the Fortuner features an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, paired with JBL audio for an enhanced in-car experience. Higher trims add premium features like a Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and a 360-degree camera for added convenience and safety.
The Fortuner’s popularity in Vietnam is evident, with over 18,000 units sold in 2023 alone.
4. Hyundai Creta
The Hyundai Creta has cemented its place as a top choice in Vietnam’s compact SUV market, blending practicality with a sleek, modern design. Since its launch in 2022, the Creta has sold over 33,000 units in Vietnam alone, showcasing its strong appeal among buyers. Let’s dive into why its pricing and features make it stand out in this competitive segment.
Affordable Pricing
One of the Creta’s biggest draws is its price. The N Line variant is available at 715 million VND, making it an appealing option for families looking for a feature-packed SUV that doesn’t break the bank.
Impressive Fuel Efficiency
While affordability matters, performance is equally important. Tests conducted on 28 April 2024 showed the 1.5L turbo petrol-automatic model consuming 9.28 L/100km in city traffic and 5.29 L/100km on highways. Additionally, ARAI-certified figures rate the petrol versions at 17.4–18.4 km/l, while diesel models achieve 19.1–21.8 km/l. These numbers highlight its efficiency, especially for daily commutes or long trips.
Built for Vietnam’s Roads
With a ground clearance of 200 mm, the Creta N Line handles Vietnam’s diverse road conditions with ease, whether navigating urban streets or rural paths. Its suspension system, tuned for high-speed stability, ensures a smooth and reliable drive across varying terrains.
Safety and Features
Safety is at the forefront of the Creta’s design. It received a 3-star Global NCAP rating for adult and child occupant protection. The SUV is equipped with a comprehensive safety package, including:
- Electronic Stability Control
- Vehicle Stability Management
- Hill-start Assist Control
- Multiple airbags
The N Line variant steps it up with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced safety technologies. This includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Assist and Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Collision Avoidance Assist, and a 360-degree camera system.
Comfort and Convenience
Designed to comfortably seat five passengers, the Creta caters perfectly to the needs of Vietnamese families. It also comes with thoughtful features like rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, all of which enhance safety and convenience during daily drives.
The Hyundai Creta continues to deliver a balanced mix of affordability, performance, and family-friendly features, making it a strong contender in Vietnam’s compact SUV market.
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5. Mitsubishi Xforce
The Mitsubishi Xforce stands out as a smart choice for Vietnam’s varied roads, combining affordability, efficiency, and durability. This 5-seater subcompact crossover has become one of the country’s best-selling SUVs, appealing to families who need a dependable vehicle that can handle both urban and rural driving conditions. Its competitive pricing, fuel efficiency, and rugged engineering make it a practical option for everyday use.
Affordability
The Xforce offers excellent value across its four variants, with prices starting at 599 million VND for the base GLX model and going up to 705 million VND for the top-tier Ultimate variant. Mid-range options, such as the Exceed and Premium models, are priced at 640 million VND and 680 million VND, respectively.
| Variant | Price (VND) |
|---|---|
| GLX | 599,000,000 |
| Exceed | 640,000,000 |
| Premium | 680,000,000 |
| Ultimate | 705,000,000 |
Fuel Efficiency
Equipped with a 1.5L MIVEC engine and CVT transmission, the Xforce delivers impressive fuel economy. Both the GLX and Ultimate variants achieve a combined fuel consumption of 6.18 L/100km, with highway efficiency reaching as low as 5.32 L/100km. The Premium variant records a combined figure of 6.51 L/100km. Beyond fuel efficiency, the Xforce is designed to handle Vietnam’s challenging roads, offering four drive modes – Normal, Wet, Gravel, and Mud – that allow drivers to adjust performance and optimize fuel usage for different terrains.
Durability and Adaptability for Vietnam’s Roads
The Xforce is built to tackle tough conditions, featuring a high-rigidity RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body for safe and reliable handling even on rough or flooded roads. Its ground clearance of 193 mm ensures smooth navigation through both city streets and rural paths. Additionally, it has earned a five-star safety rating from the 2024 ASEAN NCAP. As Atsushi Kurita, President Director of PT MMKSI, highlighted:
"Mitsubishi XForce as one of the global models of Mitsubishi Motors produced in Indonesia, once again proves its reliability from performance to safety with the achievement of 5-stars rating from ASEAN NCAP".
Key Features
Technology and Connectivity: Every variant comes equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an eight-speaker Yamaha sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-inch digital instrument cluster, and multiple USB ports (Type A and Type C).
Safety Equipment: Standard safety features include Active Yaw Control (AYC), active stability and traction control, hill-start assist, and anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution. Dual front and side airbags are standard across all variants, while the Ultimate model adds curtain airbags and advanced safety features such as forward collision mitigation, blind-spot warning, and automatic high beam.
Seating and Practicality: The 5-seater layout offers rear seats with a 40:20:40 split, an eight-step recline, and full-flat folding capabilities. ISOFIX anchors make child seat installation secure, and the flexible seating arrangement allows for enhanced cargo space when needed.
Under the hood, the Xforce delivers 103 hp at 6,000 rpm and 141 Nm at 4,000 rpm, providing ample power for daily driving while maintaining efficiency.
6. Isuzu MU-X 2025
The Isuzu MU-X 2025 is a tough and versatile 7-seater SUV, built to handle everything from daily city drives to adventurous weekend getaways. Known for its durability, Isuzu has designed this SUV to cater to the needs of Vietnamese families, business owners, and off-road enthusiasts, making it a reliable choice for navigating Vietnam’s diverse terrain.
Fuel Efficiency
The MU-X 2025 stands out with its efficient fuel consumption, offering two diesel engine options. The 1.9L diesel engine delivers an impressive 7.4 L/100km, whether you choose the rear-wheel drive or 4×4 variant. Meanwhile, the 3.0L diesel engine consumes 7.8 L/100km in rear-wheel drive and 8.3 L/100km in 4×4 models.
| Engine | Drive Type | Fuel Consumption |
|---|---|---|
| 1.9L Diesel | RWD | 7.4 L/100km |
| 1.9L Diesel | 4×4 | 7.4 L/100km |
| 3.0L Diesel | RWD | 7.8 L/100km |
| 3.0L Diesel | 4×4 | 8.3 L/100km |
With its 80L fuel tank, the 1.9L engine offers a driving range of 1,081 km, while the 3.0L version provides 963 km of range. This makes the MU-X 2025 an excellent companion for long trips across Vietnam, whether you’re cruising on highways or navigating rural roads.
Built for Vietnam’s Roads
The MU-X 2025 is built to handle Vietnam’s varied road conditions, thanks to its sturdy chassis, reliable suspension, and powerful diesel engines. These engines, popular across Isuzu’s lineup in Southeast Asia, are optimized for low RPM torque and paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. This combination ensures a balance of power and efficiency, whether you’re driving on smooth city roads or tackling rugged terrain.
The advanced chassis and suspension system add to the SUV’s durability, safety, and passenger comfort. To back its reliability, Isuzu Vietnam offers a 5-year or 200,000 km warranty, giving drivers peace of mind.
Key Features
The MU-X 2025 isn’t just about durability – it’s packed with features that prioritize safety, comfort, and convenience.
Top-Notch Safety: The SUV boasts a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, supported by up to 8 airbags and an Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS). Features like the Smart DUO Camera and Rear Radars enhance safety, while higher trims include advanced options like a 360° Surround View Monitor, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (IACC), and Traffic Jam Assist.
Spacious Interior: Inside, the MU-X offers a roomy cabin with seating for 7. The front seats provide 1,020 mm of headroom, 1,460 mm of shoulder room, and 1,075 mm of legroom, ensuring comfort for the driver and passenger. The second row offers 915 mm of legroom, while the third row provides 850 mm, making it suitable for all passengers.
Flexible Cargo Space: Need room for gear? Folding down the third row gives you 1,119 litres of storage, while folding both the second and third rows expands the space to 2,138 litres. The cabin also includes 12 bottle and cup holders and multiple storage compartments for added convenience.
Modern Connectivity: The infotainment system supports wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping drivers connected to navigation and entertainment apps – an essential feature for Vietnamese drivers on the go.
7. Jaecoo J7 and Geely Coolray
In Vietnam’s growing SUV market, two models are making waves: the Jaecoo J7 and the Geely Coolray. Both bring a mix of competitive pricing and modern features, offering Vietnamese buyers exciting new choices in the SUV segment.
Pricing Overview
The Geely Coolray has positioned itself as one of the most budget-friendly options in the B-size urban SUV category. It comes in three trims:
- Standard: 538 million VND
- Premium: 578 million VND
- Flagship: 628 million VND
These prices make the Coolray over 10 million VND cheaper than the current best-seller in its class.
Meanwhile, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV targets a different audience, competing with higher-end models like the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V. Initially priced at 969 million VND, the J7 saw significant price cuts in June 2025, with the new range falling between 729 and 879 million VND. Early adopters were offered a promotional price of 879 million VND, which included a 90 million VND fuel package valid for 10 years. This offer was limited to 777 customers and expired on 31 July 2025.
| Model | Variant | Price (VND) |
|---|---|---|
| Geely Coolray | Standard | 538 million |
| Geely Coolray | Premium | 578 million |
| Geely Coolray | Flagship | 628 million |
| Jaecoo J7 PHEV | SHS (Reduced) | 729–879 million |
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is a major selling point for both models, but the Jaecoo J7 PHEV takes the lead with its hybrid technology. Here’s how they compare:
- Jaecoo J7 PHEV:
- Plug-in hybrid variant: 1 litre per 100 km
- SHS variant: 4.7 litres per 100 km
- Electric-only range: 98 km
- Combined range (electric + fuel): ~1,200 km
- Geely Coolray:
- Powered by a conventional petrol engine, it consumes 5.8 litres per 100 km.
The J7’s hybrid system makes it an ideal choice for those seeking long-term savings on fuel and a lower environmental footprint.
Performance and Features
Both SUVs come packed with features and deliver strong performance. The Geely Coolray is powered by a 1.5L gasoline engine, producing 177 hp and 255 Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds.
On the other hand, the Jaecoo J7 SHS offers significantly more power, with 255 kW and 525 Nm of torque, ensuring it performs well in Vietnam’s diverse traffic conditions.
When it comes to tech, both models include advanced infotainment systems and smartphone connectivity, catering to modern drivers’ needs.
The Coolray‘s marketing strategy, unveiled in March 2025, focused on appealing to young professionals and small families. Geely Auto Group also announced plans to launch nine more models within three years, featuring gasoline, hybrid, and electric options. This move highlights Geely’s commitment to expanding its presence in Vietnam.
Final Thoughts
The Geely Coolray stands out as an affordable, straightforward SUV for urban drivers, while the Jaecoo J7 impresses with its hybrid technology and efficiency. Together, they reflect the diverse preferences of Vietnamese buyers, offering something for both budget-conscious shoppers and those prioritizing advanced technology.
SUV Comparison Chart
This chart provides a clear overview of key specifications, offering Vietnamese buyers a quick reference to compare the featured SUVs and make informed decisions.
| Model | Price Range (VND) | Fuel Efficiency | Seating Capacity | Engine Type | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VinFast VF 3 | 299,000,000 | Electric | 4 seats | Electric | Automatic |
| VinFast VF 5 | 345,000,000 | Electric | 5 seats | Electric | Automatic |
| Toyota Fortuner | TBA | 11–14 km/L (diesel) | 7 seats | 2.4L/2.8L Diesel | Manual/Automatic |
| Hyundai Creta | 715,000,000 | 17.4–21.8 km/L | 5 seats | 1.5L Petrol | Manual/Automatic |
| Mitsubishi Xforce | 599,000,000 – 705,000,000 | 6.18 L/100km | 5 seats | 1.5L Petrol | CVT |
| Isuzu MU-X 2025 | 928,000,000 – 1,269,000,000 | 7.4–8.3 L/100km | 7 seats | 1.9L/3.0L Diesel | Automatic |
| Jaecoo J7 PHEV | 729,000,000 – 879,000,000 | 1.0 L/100km (PHEV) / 4.7 L/100km (SHS) | 5 seats | Hybrid | Automatic |
| Geely Coolray | 538,000,000 – 628,000,000 | 5.8 L/100km | 5 seats | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 7-speed DCT |
The chart reflects the diverse preferences of Vietnamese SUV buyers. For those seeking affordability, the VinFast VF 3 offers the lowest price point and eliminates fuel costs entirely with its electric engine. At the other end of the spectrum, the Isuzu MU-X 2025 stands out with its spacious 7-seat configuration and durable diesel options, making it a solid choice for larger families or those prioritizing utility.
If fuel efficiency is a top concern, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV shines with an impressive 1.0 L/100km in plug-in hybrid mode. Meanwhile, the Geely Coolray balances performance and economy with its 1.5L turbo engine, delivering 175 horsepower and 255 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission for smooth and efficient driving.
Electric models like the VF 3 and VF 5 are ideal for buyers looking to transition away from traditional fuels, while hybrid options such as the Jaecoo J7 PHEV combine eco-friendliness with versatility. For those who value established reliability, Toyota and Isuzu remain trusted names, while brands like Hyundai, Mitsubishi, and Geely bring modern features and competitive pricing to the table.
"According to research by the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA), proper periodic maintenance can help save 10-15% of fuel, extend engine life by up to 30%, and reduce the risk of sudden failure by up to 50%."
This comparison underscores the variety of options available, allowing buyers to prioritize what matters most – be it cutting-edge technology, fuel savings, or tried-and-true dependability.
Final Thoughts
When choosing an SUV, it’s all about matching the vehicle to your specific driving needs. The models we’ve highlighted here cater to a variety of preferences, whether you’re after affordability, fuel efficiency, or enough room for a growing family.
Take, for example, the VinFast VF 3 – a compact option perfect for city driving – or the VF 5, which offers more space for families. If keeping fuel costs in check is a priority, vehicles like the Jaecoo J7 PHEV and Hyundai Creta combine efficiency with practicality. On the other hand, if family space and rugged durability are what you need, models such as the Toyota Fortuner and Isuzu MU-X 2025 are excellent choices.
For those seeking a balance between budget and versatility, the Mitsubishi Xforce and Geely Coolray provide competitive pricing alongside features that suit a wide range of drivers.
Expert opinions back these trends.
"Customers increasingly prioritise safety factors when choosing cars, followed by price considerations. Many people with around 300 – 400 million dong will choose to buy a used higher-end car rather than a new budget car." – Mr. Thai Quang Huy, Sales Director of Saigon Gia Dinh Automobile Service Company Limited
Don’t forget to factor in maintenance costs, resale value, and the availability of local service centers, as previously discussed. And, of course, take the time to test drive your shortlisted models. Whether you’re navigating the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City or planning long road trips, a test drive ensures the SUV meets your comfort and performance expectations.
FAQs
What factors are driving the increasing popularity of SUVs in Vietnam?
The growing popularity of SUVs in Vietnam can be linked to a mix of practical and economic factors. For starters, economic growth and rising disposable incomes have made these vehicles more attainable for a wider group of buyers. On top of that, Vietnam’s varied terrain and road conditions make SUVs a sensible option, offering durability, higher ground clearance, and the ability to handle both city streets and rural roads with ease.
Another driving force is the impact of government policies aimed at bolstering the automotive sector, paired with increasing urbanization. These trends are pushing demand for modern vehicles packed with features. Vietnamese drivers also appreciate SUVs for their fuel efficiency, cutting-edge technology, and their appeal as family-friendly vehicles, making them a perfect fit for the needs of many households today.
How does the VinFast VF 3 stack up against other affordable SUVs for urban driving in Vietnam?
The VinFast VF 3 is an ideal option for urban drivers in Vietnam who value both affordability and practicality. Its compact dimensions – measuring 3,190 mm in length, 1,680 mm in width, and 1,620 mm in height – make it well-suited for maneuvering through crowded streets and fitting into tight parking spots. With an electric range exceeding 200 km per charge, it’s a dependable companion for daily commutes, and its sturdy design is built to handle the challenges of Vietnam’s roads.
At a price of about 240,000,000 VND (excluding the battery), the VF 3 is an attractive choice for those mindful of their budget. The optional battery subscription plan helps make ownership even more accessible by lowering the initial purchase cost. On top of that, this compact EV offers generous cargo space and modern smart features, making it a smart and functional choice for city dwellers seeking a cost-effective and reliable ride.
What factors should Vietnamese buyers consider when deciding between hybrid and electric SUVs, especially regarding fuel efficiency and environmental impact?
When deciding between hybrid and electric SUVs in Vietnam, buyers should consider several key factors. Electric SUVs stand out for producing fewer emissions, especially when charged with renewable energy. This makes them a more eco-friendly option. Plus, since they don’t rely on petrol at all, they can lead to substantial fuel cost savings over time. That said, the environmental advantages hinge on how clean Vietnam’s electricity grid is.
Hybrids, meanwhile, offer a balanced alternative by combining a petrol engine with electric power. They generally use about 30% less fuel than traditional vehicles, which makes them a practical choice in areas where EV charging stations are scarce. Hybrids are also well-suited for Vietnam’s mix of city and countryside driving, delivering improved fuel efficiency without depending entirely on charging infrastructure.
Your decision should align with your driving patterns, the availability of charging stations in your area, and how much weight you place on reducing emissions and cutting fuel costs.
