The Ultimate Showdown: VMS 2024 Ignites a Fierce Battle in the MPV Segment

The Rise of MPVs in Vietnam: A Shift Towards Higher Ground

The automotive landscape in Vietnam is witnessing a notable shift towards higher ground, with a growing trend of consumers favoring vehicles with elevated driving positions. This trend is highlighted by the recent sales success of the Mitsubishi Xpander, which topped the charts in the previous year.

At the Vietnam Motor Show 2024 (VMS 2024), a diverse range of MPVs are on display, offering something for every taste and preference. From conventional gasoline-powered models to those embracing the future with hybrid and all-electric powertrains, the MPV segment is evolving to meet the changing demands of the Vietnamese market.

Electric MPVs Take Center Stage

Leading the charge in the electric MPV segment is BYD, a new energy vehicle manufacturer that made its debut in Vietnam in mid-July with three all-electric models: the Dolphin, Atto 3, and Seal. Now, just ahead of VMS 2024, BYD has unveiled two more exciting additions to its lineup: the BYD Han and BYD M6.

The BYD M6, priced competitively at 756 million VND, offers a similar size to the Toyota Innova Cross but is slightly smaller than the Hyundai Custin. With a three-row, seven-seat configuration, the M6 impresses with its sliding and reclining second-row seats and adjustable third-row seats. All rows are equipped with air vents for added comfort. Under the hood, the M6 boasts a powerful 161-hp motor and a generous 55.4 kWh battery that delivers an impressive maximum range of 420 km on a single charge.

Alongside the M6, BYD also showcases the Denza D9, a large MPV that utilizes an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) powertrain. With a total length of 5,250 mm and a wheelbase of 3,110 mm, the Denza D9 rivals other large MPVs in the market, such as the Toyota Alphard, Kia Carnival, and GAC M8. The D9’s interior exudes sophistication with its flat-bottom steering wheel, large central screen, and crystal-like electronic gear selector. The second-row captain’s chairs come with massage and ventilation functions, adding a touch of luxury.

The Denza D9 combines a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering impressive efficiency. The front-wheel-drive version provides a maximum pure electric range of 190 km and a combined range of up to 1,040 km, while the all-wheel-drive variant offers slightly lower figures of 180 km and 970 km, respectively.

GAC M6 Pro Enters the Fray, MG G50 Awaits Pricing

GAC, another Chinese automotive brand that recently entered the Vietnamese market, unveiled the GAC M6 Pro at VMS 2024. With a starting price of approximately 700 million VND, the M6 Pro takes aim at established rivals such as the Toyota Innova Cross, Hyundai Custin, and the newly introduced BYD M6. Sharing design cues with its larger sibling, the GAC M8, the M6 Pro offers a spacious three-row, seven-seat configuration with independent second-row seats and individual armrests.

MG, a brand under the SAIC umbrella, also showcased its upcoming MPV, the MG G50. With dimensions larger than the Toyota Innova Cross and BYD M6 but shorter than the Hyundai Custin and GAC M6 Pro, the G50 is expected to be competitively priced and could disrupt the mid-size MPV segment.

The MG G50 has generated buzz at VMS 2024, and many industry experts and visitors believe that a price range of 650-750 million VND would make it a formidable contender in the mid-size MPV segment, potentially challenging established players and newcomers alike.

Familiar Faces Still Going Strong

While the new entrants are generating excitement, some familiar faces continue to hold their ground in the MPV segment. The Toyota Alphard, a long-standing favorite among MPV enthusiasts, remains a highlight at the Toyota display, attracting attention with its sleek design and luxurious features.

Mitsubishi, fresh from the success of the Xpander, also draws crowds with its display of the Xpander and its newer sibling, the Xforce. Together, these two models have been key contributors to Mitsubishi’s sales performance in Vietnam, with the Xpander leading the small MPV segment for the past nine months.

Suzuki, despite facing temporary sales suspensions for some of its models, including the Swift, Ciaz, and Ertiga Hybrid, showcases the Suzuki Jimny and the recently introduced Suzuki XL7 Hybrid at VMS 2024. The XL7 Hybrid, with its familiar exterior and competitive pricing, has already found favor with customers, selling 256 units in its first month of sales. It is expected to continue the success of its predecessor and become Suzuki’s best-selling passenger car in Vietnam.

You may also like

The Rise of VinFast: Selling Over 16,000 Cars in November 2024, Almost Doubling Toyota and Hyundai’s Sales

In November, VinFast delivered an impressive average of over 530 electric vehicles to customers each day across Vietnam.

The Ultimate Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6×6 Makes a Statement in Vietnam: A New Look with a New Number Plate

No longer donning its original yellow paint job and blue interior, this Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6×6 has been transformed with a sleek black and yellow wrap, complete with a new license plate, making it ready for its new life in Vietnam.

Black Friday Blowout: Massive Savings on Volkswagen Models with Discounts up to 370 Million VND

Volkswagen is offering an incredible deal this December with a 50% to 100% discount on registration fees for their range of vehicles. This is a fantastic opportunity for customers to get behind the wheel of a Volkswagen with significant savings.

The Ultimate Trio: Jacky’s Supercar Collection Returns with a Bang!

All three of these supercars are wrapped in a deep green livery, a style synonymous with the fleet of cars owned by the infamous Jacky, a well-known figure in the social media world, often heard but rarely seen.

Vingroup to Construct a VND 7.3 Trillion Electric Vehicle Factory in Ha Tinh Province

The Ha Tinh provincial government has given the green light to Vingroup’s ambitious $310 million electric vehicle manufacturing plant in the Vung Ang Economic Zone. This significant investment decision underscores the province’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable development.