5 Essential Car Models for First-Time Buyers

The automotive market in Vietnam is witnessing an increasingly dynamic and diverse landscape. As a result, the criteria for choosing the right car are constantly evolving to meet the demands of customers. Most first-time car buyers have limited knowledge about automobiles, which makes it essential to consider factors such as ease of driving, maintenance, low operating costs, and affordability. Here, we present five car models specifically suited for first-time car buyers.

Hyundai Grand i10

With a price range of 360-455 million VND, the Hyundai Grand i10 is renowned for being one of the most economical car models available in the Vietnamese market. The hatchback version of the i10 has an overall dimension of 3,805 mm x 1,680 mm x 1,520 mm, while the sedan version measures 3,995 x 1,680 x 1,520 mm.

Despite its affordability, the i10 is equipped with modern features that make it ideal for first-time car buyers. The car features a 3-spoke electric power steering wheel with control buttons for menu navigation, volume adjustment, hands-free calling, and cruise control, among others. The standard version comes with a mechanical speedometer, while the other two versions feature a 5.3-inch LCD speedometer. Additionally, the 8-inch touchscreen entertainment system is capable of connecting with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Hyundai Grand i10 is powered by a Kappa 1.2 engine with a maximum power output of 83 horsepower and a peak torque of 114 Nm. It comes with either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission.

Hyundai Accent

The Hyundai Accent was the best-selling model for Hyundai in the Vietnamese market in 2022. This B-segment sedan boasts a youthful design, spacious interior, and an affordable price tag. With its compact size, the Accent is well-suited for small families who frequently commute within urban areas. The interior is equipped with various features, including an electronic speedometer and a steering wheel with automatic cruise control. The Hyundai Accent also features a large central entertainment screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

In terms of safety, the Accent is equipped with hill start assist, ABS/EBD brakes, and a 6-airbag system.

The Accent is powered by a Kappa 1.4L MPI engine producing a maximum power of 100 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 132 Nm at 4,000 rpm. It comes with two gearbox options: a 6-speed automatic Shiftronic and a 6-speed manual.

The Hyundai Accent is available in 4 versions, with prices ranging from 426-542 million VND.

Mitsubishi Xpander

The Mitsubishi Xpander, known as the “national” MPV model, is often considered by first-time car buyers. Despite facing increasing competition in the MPV segment with the introduction of various new models, the Mitsubishi Xpander continues to maintain its appeal among consumers.

This is not surprising, as the Xpander is widely recognized as a safe and leading choice with its bold modern design and spacious well-equipped interior.

In terms of safety equipment, the Mitsubishi MPV is equipped with ABS, BA, EBD brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, hill start assist, and a rearview camera…

The Mitsubishi Xpander is powered by a 4-cylinder, 16-valve gasoline engine with a displacement of 1.5L. It delivers a maximum power output of 105 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 141 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The Xpander comes with front-wheel drive and a choice between a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual gearbox.

The Mitsubishi Xpander is currently available in Vietnam in 4 versions: MT, AT, AT Premium, and Xpander Cross, with prices ranging from 555-688 million VND.

VinFast VF e34

Compared to conventional gasoline-powered cars, electric vehicles (EVs) offer numerous advantages, particularly for first-time car owners. First and foremost, due to their simpler engine structure, EVs generally have lower repair costs than their gasoline counterparts. Additionally, electric cars significantly reduce monthly fuel expenses. Moreover, electric vehicles are highly regarded for their smoothness and user-friendliness.

Introduced to the Vietnamese market in October 2021, the VF e34 is the first all-electric car from the Vietnamese automaker VinFast. Designed for urban commuting, it is a small-sized car that prioritizes convenience. The VF e34 is equipped with an electric motor and a lithium battery pack, offering a maximum power output of 147 horsepower and a peak torque of 242 Nm. According to the manufacturer, the VF e34 can travel up to 285 km on a single charge. Furthermore, with fast charging, the car can cover 180 km in just 18 minutes of charging.

The VinFast VF e34 is currently priced at 710 million VND without the battery pack and 900 million VND with the battery pack.

Toyota Corolla Cross

For first-time car buyers who have diverse mobility needs and seek a practical vehicle for urban and hilly terrains alike, the Toyota Corolla Cross presents an attractive option.

The Toyota Corolla Cross stands out due to its robust, fuel-efficient engine and its incredibly spacious interior in the B-segment SUV category.

The Corolla Cross is also equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense package, which includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, automatic headlights, and lane departure warning.

In the Vietnamese market, the Toyota Corolla Cross is available in 2 versions: 1.8 G and 1.8 V. It is powered by a 1.8L gasoline engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), delivering a maximum power output of 138 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and a peak torque of 172 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The 1.8 HEV version features a 4-cylinder, 1.8L gasoline engine with a maximum power output of 97 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and a peak torque of 142 Nm at 3,600 rpm. It comes with an e-CVT gearbox and an electric motor generating 53 horsepower and 163 Nm of torque.

The Toyota Corolla Cross is priced from 755-955 million VND in Vietnam.

Thái Son (Tuoitrethudo)