The month of June 2025 has been an exciting time for the automotive industry, with several major brands, including Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, BMW, Škoda, and Suzuki, introducing new models across various segments. Despite spanning different categories, from urban SUVs and 7-seaters to hatchback B-segment cars, and ranging from affordable to premium options, these new models share a common focus on design upgrades, technological enhancements, and improved safety features. This wave of launches indicates the manufacturers’ serious preparation to capture the year-end sales surge and strengthen their positions in an increasingly competitive market.
Two New Models Preparing to Enter the Vietnamese Market in the Latter Half of June
Skoda Kushaq
The Skoda Kushaq is set to be the next big player in the B-segment SUV market in 2025. Assembled at the Thanh Cong Vietnam Hung Yen plant in Quang Ninh, it will directly compete with the likes of the Mitsubishi Xforce, Kia Seltos, and Hyundai Creta. This model holds significant importance for Skoda’s ambitions in Vietnam.
Built on the MQB A0 IN platform exclusively designed by the parent company Volkswagen for the Indian market, the Skoda Kushaq boasts impressive dimensions: 4,221 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width, 1,612 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,651 mm.
The Kushaq showcases Skoda’s familiar design language, evident in its grille with vertical slats and the surrounding chrome trim. The two-tier lighting system features LED daytime running lights in a distinctive “L” shape.
Thanks to its long wheelbase, the Skoda Kushaq offers a spacious interior with two rows of seats accommodating five passengers comfortably. The cargo area behind the second row of seats provides a generous volume ranging from 385 to 1,405 liters.
The vehicle is well-equipped with convenience features such as front ventilated leather seats, rear faux leather seats, analog instrument cluster with a 3.5-inch multi-information display, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a six-speaker audio system with a subwoofer, a single-pane sunroof, auto-dimming rearview mirror, wireless smartphone charging, automatic climate control, rear air vents, and USB Type-C ports for both rows.
According to dealer information, the Skoda Kushaq in Vietnam will be powered by a 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 115 horsepower and 178 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to either a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic gearbox.
However, the safety features of the Kushaq are expected to be basic and may not include ADAS, unlike some of its competitors in the same segment. Hopefully, local assembly in Vietnam will result in more competitive pricing. Rumors suggest a price range starting above 600 million VND.
Suzuki Swift 2025
The beloved Suzuki Swift is making a comeback in Vietnam on June 26, sporting a fresh new look. This B-segment hatchback features exterior updates, including a new grille, LED headlights, daytime running lights, front and rear bumpers, alloy wheels, and redesigned taillights. The rear door handles have also been relocated from the C-pillar to the doors themselves.
One of the most notable additions to the Suzuki Swift 2025 is the new mild-hybrid powertrain. Under the hood is a naturally aspirated 1.2-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine that generates 82 horsepower and 108 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 3.1-horsepower/60 Nm electric motor and a 3Ah lithium-ion battery. Transmission options include a five-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
As the Swift is expected to be imported from Japan, its pricing may not be as competitive, or certain features may need to be omitted to maintain affordability.
Vehicles That Were Recently Launched in Early June
Hyundai Creta 2025
The Hyundai Creta 2025, manufactured by Hyundai Thanh Cong, was introduced in four variants: Standard (599 million VND), Special (659 million VND), High (705 million VND), and N Line (715 million VND) – the latter featuring a sportier exterior package to rival the X-Force.
The Creta 2025 embodies Hyundai’s new design language, “Sensuous Sportiness,” with overall dimensions of 4,330 mm in length, 1,790 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, and a ground clearance of 200 mm. The front grille stands out with its dark chrome finish, seamlessly integrated with the LED quad headlight cluster and updated daytime running lights. The rear end has been completely redesigned, featuring sleek LED taillights that stretch across the width of the vehicle and stylish sequential turn signals. The tailgate and rear bumper have also been modernized.
Under the hood, the Creta retains its 1.5-liter naturally aspirated Smartstream engine, delivering 115 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 144 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. Additionally, the Creta is equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, a comprehensive suite of safety technologies.
Mitsubishi DST Concept
The Mitsubishi DST Concept takes a different approach compared to the service-oriented Xpander. It is envisioned as a C-SUV with a monocoque chassis, spacious three-row seating, and an array of modern safety and convenience features, targeting families.
The DST Concept’s design is inspired by two key philosophies: “Gravitas – Uy force” and “Dynamism – Energy,” seamlessly integrated with Mitsubishi Motors’ iconic Dynamic Shield design language. There are noticeable design cues borrowed from the Xforce and Pajero Sport.
Positioned in the mid-size SUV segment, the DST will go up against competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota Fortuner. If greenlit for production, it could mark a significant step forward for Mitsubishi in the Southeast Asian market. The commercial version is expected to be unveiled by the end of this year.
Isuzu MU-X 2025
Isuzu recently launched the new MU-X 2025 on June 6, offering five variants priced between 928 million and 1.269 billion VND. This competitive pricing undercuts rivals in the same segment, such as the Kia Sorento, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Ford Everest, by hundreds of millions of VND.
The latest iteration of the MU-X showcases a sportier and more dynamic appearance, thanks to its “Bold & Dynamic” design language. The front grille has been redesigned, along with new air intakes that improve aerodynamics. The Bi-LED headlights and taillights have been upgraded to include LED daytime running lights and turn signals, enhancing illumination and visibility.
The interior has been refreshed with a new dashboard, steering wheel, armrests, and door trim. The MU-X now comes equipped with a 9-inch infotainment screen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A 7-inch multi-information display and USB-C ports for both front and rear passengers further enhance the in-cabin experience.
A notable highlight of the MU-X 2025 is its advanced safety suite, featuring the fourth-generation ADAS camera system, RCTB (Rear Cross Traffic Brake), RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic Alert), FCW (Forward Collision Warning), AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking), ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), LDW (Lane Departure Warning), BSM (Blind Spot Monitoring), and MAM (Mistaken Acceleration Mitigation). Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with six airbags, contributing to its 5-star safety rating from ASEAN NCAP.
Under the hood, the MU-X retains the familiar 1.9-liter RZ4E-TC turbocharged diesel engine, producing 150 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. Depending on the variant, it is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
BMW X3 and 5-Series Next-Gen Models Officially Launched in Vietnam
On June 6, THACO Auto unveiled the latest iterations of two luxury models, the BMW X3 and BMW 5-Series, in the Vietnamese market. Both vehicles have undergone comprehensive upgrades in design, equipment, and technology, accompanied by significant price increases compared to their predecessors.
The fourth-generation BMW X3 stands out with its sharp aesthetics, illuminated kidney grille, and new LED lighting. Offered in two variants, the xDrive20i (starting at 2.279 billion VND) and the xDrive20i M Sport (2.629 billion VND), both are powered by a 2.0-liter engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system and all-wheel drive.
The BMW 5-Series 2025, a flagship sedan for the brand, showcases a sporty design and an interior reminiscent of the 7-Series. It boasts modern amenities such as a dual-screen setup and a panoramic sunroof. Available in three variants, the 5-Series is priced from 2.589 to 3.099 billion VND.
The introduction of these new X3 and 5-Series models is expected to invigorate the competition in the luxury mid-size segment in Vietnam.
Conclusion
The automotive market in June 2025 is characterized by comprehensive upgrades across various models, encompassing exterior and interior redesigns, enhanced safety features, and improved powertrains. BMW emphasizes its advantage as a local assembler compared to other luxury brands. The Hyundai Creta and Skoda Kushaq continue to dominate the urban SUV segment, while the Isuzu MU-X maintains its stronghold in the family-oriented SUV category. The Suzuki Swift, though refreshed, falls short of a significant breakthrough. Meanwhile, the Mitsubishi DST Concept holds promise for the future of 7-seater SUVs. The strategic moves by these brands set the stage for an intense year-end battle, with key players already revealing their hand mid-year.
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