These “perfectly matched” showdowns not only draw the attention of industry insiders but also influence purchasing decisions among consumers watching every shift in monthly sales figures.

In the B-SUV segment, while past years saw fierce duels between models like the Ford EcoSport and Hyundai Kona (2018–2020), and later the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Creta (2021–2023), the current top contenders are two newer entrants: the Toyota Yaris Cross and the Mitsubishi Xforce.

Yaris Cross vs. Xforce: The battle for the B-SUV crown

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Toyota Yaris Cross, now Toyota Vietnam’s top-selling model. (Photo: TMV)

According to Toyota Vietnam, the Yaris Cross has emerged as a “golden goose” for the company, becoming its second-best-selling model just over a year after entering the market.

In the first 10 months of 2025, Toyota sold 11,488 units of the Yaris Cross - already surpassing its full-year sales of 11,174 units in 2024.

Meanwhile, the Xforce - although not Mitsubishi’s flagship - made an instant impact in the B-SUV segment. Mitsubishi Vietnam reported sales of 14,407 Xforce units during its first nine months on the market in 2024. In the first 10 months of 2025, the model delivered 9,888 units to customers, slightly trailing the Yaris Cross.

Both models are imported from Indonesia and target young professionals or small families looking for compact SUVs suitable for city driving yet comfortable enough for weekend getaways.

The Yaris Cross stands out for its robust styling and hybrid option, appealing to eco-conscious drivers. It comes in two variants: a 1.5L gasoline engine (105 hp, D-CVT) and a fuel-efficient hybrid (e-CVT), priced from USD 26,600 to USD 31,300.

In contrast, the Xforce offers a sportier design and off-road-ready presence. It features a single 1.5L gasoline engine (103 hp, CVT), with four trims priced between USD 24,500 and USD 28,800.

Triton vs. Hilux: Rivalry heats up for second place in the pickup segment

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Mitsubishi Xforce’s strong 2024 sales have slipped slightly behind its Toyota rival. (Photo: MMV)

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The latest generation of Mitsubishi Triton launched in Vietnam in September 2024. (Photo: MMV)

While the Ford Ranger remains the undisputed leader in Vietnam’s pickup market - and in some months the entire vehicle market - the more dynamic competition lies in the battle for second place between the Mitsubishi Triton and Toyota Hilux.

According to Mitsubishi, the Triton sold 2,687 units in 2024 and 3,255 in the first 10 months of 2025, ranking as the brand’s third-best-selling vehicle after the Xpander and Xforce.

Its Toyota counterpart, the Hilux, posted 2,404 units sold in 2024 and 3,026 so far this year.

The rivalry remains neck-and-neck. In October 2025, Triton sales fell to 441 units - down 8.9% from September - while Hilux surged to 522 units, marking a 68% month-on-month increase and reclaiming the No. 2 position.

Mitsubishi launched the current Triton generation in Vietnam in September 2024. The model features three variants with a 2.4L turbo diesel engine: two 2WD versions and the flagship Athlete 4WD with a bi-turbo setup, priced between USD 26,800 and USD 37,800.

The Hilux, with its durable reputation, offers three trims using 2.4L and 2.8L diesel engines, priced from USD 28,200 to USD 40,800. Toyota is preparing to launch the ninth-generation Hilux in Vietnam in Q1 2026 following its global debut in Bangkok in November.

Triton is known for balancing daily driving with off-road versatility, while Hilux appeals to buyers needing a rugged, reliable workhorse that doubles as a family-friendly option.

Competition drives innovation - and consumer benefits

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Toyota Hilux’s next-generation model is expected to arrive in Vietnam in early 2026. (Photo: Toyota)

Industry experts believe that rivalries like Yaris Cross vs. Xforce and Triton vs. Hilux are key to keeping Vietnam’s auto market dynamic.

As manufacturers compete on pricing, features, and technology, consumers benefit from more value, better product choices, and rising service standards.

Ultimately, this healthy competition pushes automakers to continuously innovate, invest, and upgrade - ensuring Vietnamese buyers have access to world-class vehicles tailored to their needs.

Hoang Hiep