The 2024 Vietnam Motor Show in Saigon this year was a
feast for anyone who loves the hum of a sleek machine and the glint of polished
metal. Vietnam’s vehicle culture is steeped in motorbikes—countless brands,
models, and styles that buzz through every city and rural road. But these days,
as Vietnam’s economy revs up, so do the car sales, and it’s not just about the
bikes anymore. Families are stepping into the world of car ownership in
increasing numbers, bringing all the major carmakers to shows like this one.
So, in Saigon, a city with one of Asia’s most colorful automotive scenes, there
was no shortage of eye-catching wheels to ogle.
Walking into the show, the first thing you notice is the range of brands represented, however Korean brands, surprisingly, didn’t make an appearance this year, which seemed odd, considering how much Hyundai and Kia typically dominate in Southeast Asia. And although VinFast is now the best-selling brand in the country, there wasn’t any sign of them on the showroom floor. What there was, however, was a steady influx of Chinese brands looking to carve out their niche.
Omoda, a new name from China’s Chery Automotive,
caught my eye across the street next to a coffee shop with its sleek, modern
design. Omoda, with dual screens, dual phone chargers, and a small, crossover
size perfect for Vietnam’s narrow streets. Sitting inside, I couldn’t shake the
familiarity—Omoda’s aesthetic has that distinctly Chinese style, a careful mix
of recognizable global influences yet refreshingly unique. The premium model’s
1.5-liter turbo engine isn’t a beast, but it’s fuel-efficient, practical, and
aimed at families on a budget. Omoda and brands like it are stepping into the
scene to make high-tech, accessible cars, showing how far Chinese manufacturers
have come in a very short time.
Moving through the crowd, the show took us past countless motorcycles, where Honda had a full lineup, showcasing everything from everyday rides like the Air Blade and Wave—practical, economical, and practically built for Vietnamese city streets—to beasts like the CB1000R, designed for speed and precision. Over at Suzuki, the mighty (or not depending on your perspective) Jimny—that quirky, compact 4x4 with a dedicated following—was on display, and I couldn’t resist the urge to climb inside. The Jimny’s simplicity, throwback look, and unbeatable off-road capabilities make it a hit, especially in the more rural areas where trails and rugged terrain reign supreme. While small, the Jimny has an iconic status among off-road enthusiasts for being one of the best in its class, a practical little dynamo that packs a lot of adventure.
On to trucks—Mitsubishi’s Triton was a standout.
Pickup trucks are still niche here compared to places like Thailand and the Philippines,
but they’re growing in popularity as people seek out multipurpose vehicles.
Triton’s latest model, compact yet plenty big enough for SE Asia, was drawing
plenty of interest from those looking for a versatile workhorse. These pickups
are as ready for daily commutes as they are for the occasional rural adventure,
meeting the needs of an increasingly diverse group of drivers.
Outside the main hall, Subaru had set up a mini-track for the Forester, one of their most popular SUVs in the region, thanks to its ASEAN assembly, which reduces hefty import taxes. Subaru’s cars are tough, built for rougher terrains but smooth enough for city life. For those itching for a bit of flash, the BRZ sports car was on display, complete with a flashy wing that looked ready to slice through the air on an open track.
Then there were the Chinese heavyweights—GAC and BYD.
GAC, known for their GS8 SUVs, and the new Master 8 minivan, is gaining
traction in Vietnam as a brand with solid quality and impressive tech. And BYD,
China’s electric car leader, had several models at the show. I got a chance to
sit inside the BYD Seal, a compact EV that strikes a balance between style and
affordability. For a brand that has taken on Tesla in China, BYD’s sleek
designs and innovative tech show how they’re trying to win over buyers with
vehicles that are anything but conventional. This time, BYD didn’t spell out
“Build Your Dreams” in big letters on the car (finally!), keeping it simple
with just the initials. The Dolphin and other models stood out for their
quirky, fun interiors and playful aesthetics, which is a nice departure from
the more traditional styles of other brands.
On a practical note, the GAC GS8 and the BYD
Dolphin both look poised to join the roster of affordable options on the
ride-hailing circuit. As more people seek Grab rides in and out of town,
carpool-friendly designs are becoming a must. These models are roomy,
comfortable, and inexpensive compared to Japanese or European cars, making them
ideal for everyday use in Vietnam.
The motor show encapsulated a huge shift in Vietnamese
vehicle preferences and accessibility. More international options, from
Japanese stalwarts and European luxury to quirky Chinese EVs, are flooding the
market. The transition from motorbikes to cars is steady but unmistakable, even
if motorbikes still hold the majority. With BYD, MG, GAC, and other Chinese
brands accelerating their expansion, competition is heating up, making it an
exciting time to witness Vietnam’s motor scene as it redefines itself. The question is, can the underdeveloped roads
and inner-city infrastructures handle this fast-growing trend of car
ownership? No matter the answer, it is coming, ready or
not.