Discover why popular Toyota and Mitsubishi SUVs are running low before the Lunar New Year in Vietnam and how buyers can navigate the shortage. Learn more now!
As the Lunar New Year approaches, Vietnamese families are rushing to secure a new vehicle for holiday travel. But the most sought‑after models from Toyota and Mitsubishi are disappearing from showroom floors faster than dealers can restock.
Demand Outpaces Supply
Both Toyota and Mitsubishi import their compact and mid‑size SUVs from Thailand and Indonesia. The Mitsubishi Destinator—a brand‑new C‑segment SUV—has become a headline grabber, while Toyota’s Innova Cross and Yaris Cross HEV enjoy similar popularity.
Dealers report that reservations poured in as early as January, especially for the Destinator in the hot‑selling white finish. The result? Almost every unit on the lot has already been sold, shipped, or is waiting for registration paperwork.
What Buyers Are Facing
- Delayed delivery: Customers who placed deposits in early‑January are being told their cars won’t arrive until after the holiday weeks.
- Extra accessory bundles: Some showrooms suggest adding a VND 20‑30 million accessories package to speed up the hand‑over. Those who decline may miss the pre‑New‑Year window.
- Hidden fees: In 2022‑2023 a practice known locally as “bia kèm lạc” (extra charge) emerged when demand outstripped supply, inflating the final price.
Current Stock Situation
According to the latest sales figures (December 2025), the Destinator reached 2,595 units sold, underscoring its strong market pull. However, the initial batch was quickly exhausted, and replenishment shipments are still in transit.
Similarly, Toyota’s Yaris Cross HEV and Innova Cross are facing the same bottleneck. Dealers in Ho Chi Minh City have confirmed that only a handful of colors—mostly non‑white, non‑black options—remain on the floor, and the next shipment won’t dock before the post‑holiday period.
How to Navigate the Shortage
If your purchase isn’t urgent, consider waiting until the post‑New‑Year peak passes. Inventory levels typically stabilise in February, and you may avoid extra accessory costs or hidden fees.
Alternatively, explore other imported models that are still in stock or benefit from dealer promotions. The market still offers several attractive options that won’t require a year‑long wait.
Bottom Line
Running out of popular imported SUVs just before the Lunar New Year has become a recurring story in Vietnam’s automotive scene. While it’s tempting to secure a brand‑new ride for the holidays, a patient approach can save both time and money. Evaluate your needs, compare the total cost—including any optional accessory bundles—and decide whether to wait for a steadier supply or go with an alternative model that’s readily available.