The c-segment sedan market saw positive signs in november, as total sales reached 649 units, an increase of 21,2% compared to october (547 units). This marked the highest sales volume for the segment since the beginning of the year, indicating that year-end shopping demand is starting to pick up again.

Mazda3 continued to hold the top spot, selling 325 units, an increase of 33 units from october, and also setting a new record for the entire segment in 2025. This growth momentum helped Mazda3 not only consolidate its leading position but also widen its lead in the cumulative rankings. After 11 months, the Japanese sedan reached 2,546 units, accounting for nearly 46% of the segment's total sales.

Meanwhile, Kia K3 also recovered strongly after several sluggish months, reaching 165 units, a significant increase compared to 96 units in october. Cumulatively from the beginning of the year, Kia K3 achieved 1,489 units, ranking second in the segment.

Honda Civic ranked third with 77 units, slightly better than the previous month but still low compared to its peak during the same period last year. Its highest price in the segment, combined with a product strategy focused on a sporty image, makes the Civic less accessible to mainstream customers, despite its highly regarded performance.

The remaining two models, Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla Altis, maintained modest sales. Elantra reached 52 units, while Altis sold 30 units in november. Cumulatively over 11 months, Elantra achieved 591 units, and Altis reached 257 units.

Mazda3 in the Vietnam market. Photo: *Luong Dung*

Overall for the 11 months of 2025, c-segment sedans reached 5,560 units, a low sales figure compared to the urban SUV and small crossover segments. Nevertheless, the recovery in november indicates that the traditional customer base for sedans is still present.

In the final month of the year, c-segment sedan sales are expected to improve further due to demand for cars for Tet (Lunar New Year) and sales promotion programs from manufacturers and dealerships. However, this segment is unlikely to see a breakthrough, as it still requires more product upgrades or more competitive pricing policies, facing increasing pressure from high-riding vehicles and electric cars.

Ho Tan