In the first half of 2026, the VinFast VF 7 achieved the highest sales growth in its segment, increasing by 91% compared to the same period in 2025. VinFast's model surpassed the Ford Territory to become the second best-selling vehicle, trailing only the segment's sales leader, the Mazda CX-5.

VF 7 sales rose from 3,586 units in the first half of 2025 to 6,849 units in the first half of 2026. With a gap of nearly 1,300 vehicles behind the CX-5, the VinFast model has a realistic chance of claiming the top spot in the latter half of 2026.

The VF 7's strong sales increase was supported by various demand stimulation programs, including cash discounts, vouchers, and free charging. Additionally, the advantage of a 0% registration fee significantly reduced its on-road costs by hundreds of millions of dong compared to its internal combustion engine competitors.

The C-segment CUV category remains one of the few where gasoline and diesel vehicles have not yet been overtaken by electric vehicles. This is largely due to the consistent appeal of the Mazda CX-5 and consumer preferences that do not solely prioritize low running costs. With an accessible price, diverse variant options, a design that resonates with the majority, and extensive features, the CX-5 has maintained a strong dominance for many years.

Alongside the growing appeal of the VF 7, the introduction of the Mitsubishi Destinator was a primary catalyst for the overall sales growth of the entire segment. Models in this group sold a total of 35,239 units, marking an increase of nearly 46% compared to the first half of 2025.

The Mitsubishi Destinator is a newcomer to the C-segment high-riding vehicle category in the first half of 2026. Replacing the Outlander, it achieved sales of nearly 5,200 units over the past six months.

The VF 7 on display at an event in TP HCM. *Photo: Pham Trung*

In the first half of 2026, the Territory saw a slight sales increase of approximately 9% compared to the same period in 2025. The Ford model also engaged in retail price reductions and feature upgrades, similar to the CX-5, throughout 2026. It is currently Ford's second best-selling product, after the Ranger.

Among the three lowest-selling models in the segment—the Hyundai Tucson, Honda CR-V, and Kia Sportage—only the Kia model experienced a sales decline, dropping by 10%. While its mid-cycle refresh launched in early June, the period before saw reduced supply and inventory clearance for the Sportage, contributing to lower sales in the first half of 2026 compared to the first half of 2025.

Although the Tucson is one of Hyundai's two best-selling models (alongside the Creta), its sales performance in the C-segment CUV category is not particularly strong. It ranks 5th among best-selling models, outselling the CR-V by nearly 1,000 units in the first half of 2026.