The Vietnamese auto market is witnessing a remarkable shift in consumer choices. Sedans, once a key group of cars with familiar names such as Vios, Accent or City, are increasingly under pressure from high-heelbase models.
According to data compiled by the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA), after the first 6 months of 2026, sedan sales reached 13,364 vehicles, down compared to the same period last year and the lowest level in the past 5 years. Meanwhile, SUVs reached 40,001 vehicles, crossovers reached 16,633 vehicles and MPVs reached 26,166 vehicles.
This difference shows that sedans no longer hold a dominant position in the market as before.
From popular choices to narrowed segments
About 5-7 years ago, sedans were a familiar choice for many Vietnamese customer groups. Suitable design, flexible operation and relatively reasonable usage cost help this car line maintain an important position in the product portfolio of many brands.
However, the trend has now changed. Sales figures show that sedan sales have continuously decreased since 2023. In the first half of 2026 alone, this car group only reached 13,364 vehicles, significantly lower than 52,250 vehicles in the same period of 2022.
In the B-segment sedan segment, which was once considered one of the best-selling car groups, purchasing power also decreased. C-segment sedans are even under greater pressure as many models no longer maintain sales as before.
Meanwhile, high-chassis cars are increasingly in important positions. SUVs, crossovers and MPVs not only increase sales but also become key models of many brands. In the first half of 2026, SUV sales increased to 40,001 vehicles, while crossovers and MPVs reached 16,633 vehicles and 26,166 vehicles respectively.
It is noteworthy that this change does not simply come from the fact that manufacturers add new products. It reflects a change in the usage needs of buyers.
Why do Vietnamese people switch to high-chassis cars?
One of the reasons why SUVs, crossovers and MPVs are increasingly chosen is versatility. The large ground clearance makes the car more suitable for many road conditions, while the interior space and luggage compartment often meet family needs well.
For first-time car buyers, a crossover can simultaneously meet daily travel needs in urban areas and long trips. Meanwhile, MPVs have advantages in seating and space, suitable for large families.
The change in tastes also makes manufacturers adjust product strategies. Many new SUV and crossover models are continuously being introduced into the market, while the sedan portfolio tends to shrink.
According to first half-year data, many high-chassis car models have become products that contribute important sales to brands. Toyota Yaris Cross reached 8,146 vehicles, while Mazda CX-5 reached 8,123 vehicles. Mitsubishi Xpander reached 7,791 vehicles. These figures show the increasing role of high-chassis cars and MPVs in the sales structure.
However, sedans have not disappeared from the market. This car line still has its own advantages such as low center of gravity, stable driving feel and suitable fuel consumption in many operating conditions. Some sedan models still maintain a certain customer base thanks to their brand, design and usability.
The problem lies in the fact that sedans are gradually losing their position as a mass-market popular car. As customers increasingly prioritize versatility, high-chassis models have more advantages in competition.
In the short term, the possibility of sedans returning to the leading position in the market is not easy. Brands will have to find ways to innovate design, technology and selling price if they want to reattract users.
For consumers, this change brings more choices. The competition between sedans, SUVs, crossovers and MPVs will continue to force manufacturers to improve products, while offering policies that are more suitable for actual needs.
The Vietnamese automobile market is therefore not only growing in scale but also changing in structure. From a market familiar with sedans, consumers are gradually shifting to car models that serve more needs in the same car.
