Vietnam families adopt 7‑seat MPVs and Mini EVs as second vehicles

From July 2024, new road rules in Vietnam require children under 10 years old and under 1.35 m tall to use dedicated safety devices when seated in private cars. The requirement has pushed many larger families to look for vehicles with spacious cabins, especially 7‑seat MPVs priced under 1 billion VND. Popular models include the Mitsubishi Xpander and Toyota Veloz Cross, praised for flexible three‑row seating, while Hyundai Stargazer, Kia Carens, Suzuki XL7 hybrid and MG G50 also meet demand for roomy, affordable transport.

At the same time, Vietnamese households are adding a second, smaller vehicle for daily city travel. Mini electric cars such as the Bestune Xiaoma are being bought as compact, low‑cost alternatives for short trips, school runs and urban commuting. Their small size, easy maneuverability and zero‑fuel cost appeal to families who already own a larger SUV or sedan for longer journeys. The trend reflects a shift from buying a single all‑purpose car to selecting vehicles based on specific usage patterns.