Economy automobile producers from Asian countries such as India, Malaysia or Indonesia are seeking ways to enter the Vietnamese market.

Model Ertiga of India

Recently, Suzuki Vietnam began offering a model of a seven-seat vehicle called the Ertiga, imported from India. The selling price begins at VND599 million (USD26,610), making it the cheapest of its class in Vietnam.

According to some news sources, there will soon be three new economy models produced in Southeast Asian countries sold Vietnam.

Honda has already introduced the HR-V in Thailand and Indonesia, being sold for USD20,000 in the latter country. Vietnam may become the third market in Southeast Asia to which Honda introduces this model.

Meanwhile, there are rumours of the launch of the Mazda 2 in Vietnam in the near future. In Indonesia, this model is priced at between USD18,756 and USD22,507. There are also plans for Mazda to start domestic assembly.

Proton, of Malaysia, also plans to import cars to Vietnam.

Despite these various plans, Vietnam is still seen as a difficult market. This can be seen in the case of Suzuki, which launched its eight-seat multi-utility MPV for families with a simple interior design. However, it sold less than 100 units a year. This model is almost no longer seen in the local market.