Best SUVs for First-Time Car Buyers

Besides having a high ground clearance in common, these models are all priced within the range of 500 million VND, suitable for individuals buying a car for the first time.

0
106

Kia Sonet

The Kia Sonet is a subcompact urban SUV that has been assembled domestically since late 2021. It attracts users with its sporty and versatile design. It has a relatively large ground clearance of 205 mm, equivalent to some C-segment crossovers, making it ideal for urban driving.

The car is equipped with a 1.5L Smartstream engine, with an output of 113 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque, paired with a CVT automatic transmission.

Hyundai Venue

The Hyundai Venue is a Korean car of the same size and is also assembled domestically like the Sonet. It targets young first-time car buyers and those who need a compact SUV for city driving. The car features an impressive design with a large grille similar to the Palisade.

In terms of price, the Hyundai Venue is slightly more expensive than its domestic rival, with prices ranging from 539 to 579 million VND. However, it has an advantage in terms of performance, with an output of up to 118 horsepower and 172 Nm of torque despite using only a 1.0L engine.

Toyota Raize

Unlike the two Korean rivals mentioned above, the Toyota Raize is imported from Indonesia. It also has the lowest price in the subcompact SUV segment, with one version priced at 498 million VND.

The Raize’s design also targets male customers more, as it leans towards a rugged, boxy style. However, it has a slightly lower engine output than its two rivals, with only 98 horsepower and 140 Nm of torque, paired with a CVT transmission.

The Raize’s amenities are also adequate. Overall, this subcompact SUV is for those who prefer imported cars or are passionate about Toyota vehicles while still saving on costs.

VinFast VF 5

As an all-electric vehicle, the VinFast VF 5 naturally targets those who are passionate about green vehicles and care about environmental issues. The car is currently produced in a single Plus version, priced at 468 million VND with battery rental and 548 million VND with battery purchase.

This electric car is equipped with a single motor with an output of 134 horsepower and 135 Nm of torque. Despite having a slightly higher output than its gasoline-powered rivals, the VF 5’s range is something to consider, as it has a travel distance of 300 km per charge.

In return, besides saving on fuel, the VinFast VF 5 is currently benefiting from the government’s exemption policy on registration fees for electric vehicles. Therefore, the on-the-road price will be lower than that of similar-sized gasoline-powered rivals.

MG ZS

As a B-segment SUV but with a starting price comparable to A-segment cars, the MG ZS has attracted attention from Vietnamese customers, especially those looking to upgrade from sedans to high-riding crossovers.

The car is imported from Thailand in three versions, priced from 538 to 628 million VND. All are equipped with a 1.5L gasoline engine, with an output of 112 horsepower and 150 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed simulated CVT transmission.