Vietnam's auto market is on the rise: Signs of recovery after a period of stagnation

The Vietnamese automobile market has shown positive signs of recovery in September 2025, with significant sales growth thanks to a series of stimulus measures such as price reductions, fee incentives and the appearance of many new car models. Although it has not been able to reach the same consumption level as the same period last year - which was strongly influenced by the Government 's support policies - the current growth momentum is bringing great expectations for the last quarter of the year.

Sales bounce back

According to a report from the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA), total market sales in September 2025 reached 30,688 vehicles, up 18% over the previous month. This growth is even more remarkable as most of September coincides with the Ghost Month - a period when consumers often refrain from purchasing large assets such as cars due to spiritual factors.

However, compared to the same period in 2024 - when a series of strong incentives on registration fees began - consumption still decreased by 16%. This partly reflects the fact that current growth comes largely from the efforts of businesses, rather than direct support from macro policies like last year.

Domestically assembled cars and imported cars both increased.

One of the bright spots in September was the even growth between two groups of vehicles: domestically assembled and completely imported. Specifically, domestically assembled vehicles sold 14,427 units, up 14%, while imported vehicles reached 16,261 units, up sharply 22%. This is a positive signal, showing that supply has improved, and at the same time reflecting the increased willingness of consumers to spend.

SUV and MPV segments lead growth

In terms of segment structure, the SUV/Crossover line continues to assert its position as the “king of sales” in the Vietnamese market, with 9,265 vehicles sold - an increase of more than 30% compared to the previous month. However, the segment that recorded the most impressive growth was the MPV, with sales of 4,815 vehicles - an increase of nearly 60%. This is a signal that consumers are increasingly favoring convenient and flexible family cars.

In addition, segments such as pickup trucks (2,531 vehicles - up 19%) and hybrid cars (1,371 vehicles - up 5%) also recorded positive progress. In contrast, the sedan segment continued to be quiet with a slight decrease of 0.5% (2,940 vehicles), reflecting the trend of shifting tastes towards high-chassis vehicles.

Electric vehicles maintain growth momentum, VinFast continues to lead

The electric vehicle market also had a strong month. VinFast - a domestic electric car brand - sold 13,914 cars in September, up 27% compared to the previous month. With more than 100,000 cars sold after 9 months, VinFast is affirming its leading position in the electric vehicle segment as well as in the whole market.

Another notable point is that Ford's first electric car model - with a price of up to 2.6 billion VND - has also started to show positive signs when reaching sales of 13 cars in the first month of sale. Although the number is modest, this can be considered a positive start for the entry of global electric car brands in Vietnam.

New cars stir up the market

In addition to the incentive programs, September also witnessed a wave of new car launches, creating great attraction for consumers. Notable models include Mitsubishi Xpander 2025, Kia Sorento and Kia Morning upgrades, Skoda Slavia, Mercedes-Benz EQB 2025 and Mini Countryman JCW 2025. The diversity of models and prices gives consumers more choices, while stimulating shopping psychology after a period of stagnation.

Cumulative growth exceeds 250,000 vehicles

By the end of September, the total number of vehicles sold in the Vietnamese market reached 251,421 vehicles - an increase of 11.5% over the same period in 2024. This figure reflects a clear recovery trend after a volatile 2024 and was strongly affected by macroeconomic factors, high interest rates and declining purchasing power.

In the brand race, VinFast continues to be the leading name, followed by Toyota (48,126 cars - up 19%) and Ford (33,655 cars - up 20%). Mitsubishi recorded a 10% drop in sales, while Kia fell by 22%, showing increasingly fierce competition and higher demands for product and service innovation.

Outlook for the final quarter of the year: Cautious but optimistic

Despite having passed the low point, the Vietnamese auto market still faces many challenges ahead. The impact of interest rates, global economic fluctuations and domestic consumer spending are still factors to monitor. However, with the current growth momentum and the dynamism of automakers in launching new products and implementing promotional programs, the fourth quarter of 2025 could be a time of explosive sales if supported by the year-end shopping season.

Source: https://baogialai.com.vn/thi-truong-o-to-viet-nam-khoi-sac-tin-hieu-phuc-hoi-sau-giai-doan-tram-lang-post569072.html