The Thrilling B-Segment SUV Scene

According to a report by the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (VAMA), the Vietnamese automobile market continued to thrive in July, with a 9% increase in sales compared to June and a 17% surge from the same period last year.

The B-segment SUV market remained the hottest segment, with most models recording growth in July, resulting in a tight race for sales leadership.

Leading the segment are the Mitsubishi Xforce and Toyota Yaris Cross, with sales figures of 1,748 and 1,242 units, respectively. Mitsubishi’s newcomer outperforms not only in monthly sales but also in cumulative sales since the beginning of the year, with 5,638 units compared to 4,992 for the Yaris Cross.

Notably, the Xforce has only been delivering vehicles since the third month, making its rise to the top of the segment even more impressive. Mitsubishi’s newcomer is highly regarded for its youthful and robust design, ample features, and, most importantly, its attractive pricing ranging from VND 599 million to VND 705 million.

In the middle group, South Korean models are showing signs of lagging behind their Japanese competitors. This is evident as the Hyundai Creta (686 units) and Kia Seltos (526 units) are the only models in the segment with stagnant sales.

Meanwhile, the Honda HR-V (682 units) recorded an impressive 188% growth, but this surge is attributed to extremely low sales in the previous month. The Toyota Corolla Cross (671 units) saw a slight 2% increase, which is not substantial enough to propel it to a higher position.

As usual, the Mazda CX-3 and CX-30 bring up the rear, with sales figures of 262 and 130 units, respectively. Notably, the Mazda CX-30 is the only B-segment SUV with cumulative sales of less than 1,000 units since the beginning of the year, translating to an average monthly delivery of just over 110 units.

The B-segment SUV market is expected to heat up even further in the remaining months of 2024 with the introduction of the Lynk & Co 06 in June, alongside other Chinese entrants like the Omoda C5 and Haval Jolion, which are set to enter the Vietnamese market.

Moreover, Subaru dealerships in Vietnam have announced their plans to introduce the Crosstrek, adding another contender to the segment. In the near future, the B-segment SUV market in Vietnam will welcome at least three new models.

The intensifying competition in the already crowded B-segment SUV market will drive manufacturers to step up their game. Ultimately, customers will benefit from a wider range of options and more attractive pricing as manufacturers vie for market share and sales leadership.