Buzz
1. Toyota Corolla – 282,637 units
Toyota Corolla Altis 2019 boasts superior chassis and design compared to its predecessor. This model was introduced in the Chinese market at the end of 2018 with a Hybrid version, followed by the Southeast Asian market. Breaking away from the design cues of the previous generation, the Toyota Corolla Altis 2019 is built on the same platform as the Camry and C-HR. This allows the Toyota Corolla Altis 2019 to benefit from the advantages of its D-segment sedan sibling, such as a larger interior, a more robust chassis, and enhanced safety. Additionally, the shared platform helps Toyota save costs and production time, thereby potentially offering a more competitive price.
According to automotive experts, the interior of the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is quite beautiful and practical. The specially arranged interior creates a sense of sophistication, spaciousness, and luxury compared to its predecessor. The all-new multifunction steering wheel combined with subtly spaced function buttons makes for easy control. The central control panel of the 2019 Corolla is equipped with an 8-inch high-resolution touchscreen, an upgrade from the predecessor's center display. This allows for a host of programmable settings, entertainment systems, navigation systems, mobile phone connectivity, and other applications. Users can now access climate control information on a digital screen and adjust it with small buttons.
The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is available in 2 trim levels for U.S. customers, namely SE and XSE. The SE trim comes standard with automatic climate control, leather-wrapped shift knob, paddle shifters, electronic parking brake, SmartKey system, power windows with automatic up/down feature, and two USB ports at the front. With the premium XSE trim, users will enjoy dual-zone automatic climate control, leather and fabric-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat. Additionally, users will notice contrast stitching on the dashboard, doors, and instrument cluster. The 7-inch TFT Multi-Information Display provides a wealth of essential information and precise navigation for the driver.
The engine of the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated Dynamic-Force inline-4 engine. Dubbed the M20A-FKS, this engine features direct fuel injection, 16 valves, DOHC, and incorporates an electronically controlled variable valve timing system Dual VVT-i. Compared to its predecessor, the 2019 Corolla is more powerful, efficient, and emits fewer emissions. The new engine is smaller and lighter than the previous 1.8-liter engine. This has increased engine performance and significantly reduced vehicle weight. The D-4S direct fuel injection system provides both high-pressure and low-pressure fuel injectors to maximize fuel efficiency. Additionally, the Dual VVT-I variable valve timing system includes VVT-iE for intake and VVT-i for exhaust. VVT-iE uses a single electric motor to control the variable valve, as opposed to oil pressure on traditional systems.
2. Honda Civic – 203,103 units
Differing from the pure sedan design of its competitors, 2019 Honda Civic embodies a completely different fastback style. The front of the car is lowered, the roof slopes down to the tail, and the body features sleek and decisive lines. It can be said that the appearance is a standout feature of the new generation Civic, especially appealing to masculine customers. The overall dimensions of the car are Length x Width x Height at 4,630 x 1,799 x 1,416 (mm), with a wheelbase of 2,700 (mm) and a minimum turning radius of 5.30 (m), similar to the Mazda 3 or Altis. The ground clearance is lowered to 133mm to optimize aerodynamics, enhancing stability during operation. All three versions of the 2019 Honda Civic come with LED daytime running lights, halogen fog lights, LED taillights, and power-folding/heated side mirrors.
Stepping inside, the five seating positions are upholstered in black-toned leather, with the driver's seat featuring 8-way power adjustment instead of manual adjustment as in the 2015 Civic. The front seats have large contoured backrests that hug the occupants, while the seat cushions are well-suited to the average Asian physique. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom for passengers up to around 1.75m tall, despite the low-sloping roof, and the middle seat is not overly inconvenient thanks to headrests and minimal intrusion from the center console. The dashboard of the new-generation Honda Civic uses premium leather and plastic materials, with a sleek design that focuses on the driver's direction. The central control cluster includes an entertainment screen, an integrated climate control system with the gear shifter assembly, and a center armrest.
For performance, the Honda Civic is equipped with a turbocharged VTEC 1.5L engine paired with a CVT gearbox built on the Earth Dreams technology platform, delivering a maximum power of 170 horsepower at 5,500 rpm, the most powerful in its segment; maximum torque of 220 Nm at 1,700 – 5,500 rpm; a top speed of 200 km/h, and an acceleration time of 0-100 km/h in 8.3 seconds. Additionally, customers can opt for the 1.8L SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, producing 139 horsepower at 6,500 rpm, maximum torque of 174 Nm at 4,300 rpm, paired with a CVT gearbox. The new Honda Civic's steering system includes an ECON mode along with ECO Coaching driving guidance for the driver. Fuel consumption figures respectively for mixed conditions - urban - highway are 5.8 – 8.0 – 4.6 liters/100 km.
The Honda Civic is a product line targeting masculine customers who want to stand out from the crowd. The 1.5L and 1.5 G versions with the VTEC Turbo 180 horsepower engine are suitable choices if you prioritize performance and desire many entertainment features. The lower variant 1.8L with fewer features and a less powerful engine is a worthwhile option if you love the Civic's styling and need a vehicle for work or family purposes.
3. Ford F-Series – 252,013 units
Ford F-150 Raptor has long been known as one of the most rugged and best-performing pickup trucks in its segment. Since its debut in 2010 and its impressive overhaul in 2017, the high-performance F-150 Raptor has always kept its competitors on edge, thanks to its powerful engine, superb suspension system, and top-notch off-road capability. And after nearly 10 years on the market, the Ford F-150 Raptor has officially welcomed another conqueror – the 2019 Raptor.
In terms of exterior, the 2019 Raptor version overall doesn't differ much from its predecessor. The truck still stands out with large tires, rugged mudguards, and the prominent 'Ford' lettering placed in front of the grille. Additionally, the 2019 Raptor also features some minor changes such as beadlock wheels (tires that won't slip off when deflated) and a completely new rear bed cover, making it easier for customers to distinguish the 2019 version from the previous one. Furthermore, customers also have additional exterior paint color options such as Ford Performance Blue, Velocity Blue, and Agate Black.
As for the interior, the cabin of the 2019 F-150 Raptor is nearly identical to the 2018 version. However, upon closer inspection, one can notice that the 2019 version will feature the prominent Raptor logo on the steering wheel, some new buttons above the infotainment screen. One of the most notable upgrades is in the seating system. Accordingly, the 2019 Raptor is the first to be equipped with Recaro sports seats as an option, spacious and comfortable, helping to create a more confident posture for the driver and passengers when traversing difficult terrain or traveling at high speeds. In addition, the truck comes standard with leather seats, integrated heating and ventilation features. Moreover, the design of the new seats is also visually appealing, with the middle of the backrest and seat cushion made of blue Alcantara material combined with black leather and highlighted stitching inspired by the Ford GT supercar. Other equipment in the cabin includes: SYNC 3 entertainment information system with an 8-inch screen, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with some shiny plastic and metal accents on the dashboard. However, according to Motor1's evaluation, the cabin of the 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor does not exude luxury or sophistication, but rather has a somewhat mainstream and 'budget-friendly' feel.
Regarding the engine, the Ford Raptor 2019 still uses a powerful V6 engine, with a displacement of 3.5 liters, twin turbochargers, producing a maximum power of 450 horsepower and torque of 692Nm. The power is transmitted to all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Not much has changed in terms of appearance and drivetrain, but the Ford Raptor 2019 has completely transformed in terms of performance and off-road capability. Accordingly, the adaptive suspension system of the Raptor has been significantly upgraded to help the truck conquer all terrains more impressively than before. To improve the shock absorption system, the Ford Performance division has collaborated with FOX to introduce the all-new 'Live Valve' electronic valve control technology, which continuously adjusts shock absorption sensitivity in real-time. This technology operates by using sensors on the suspension system and the vehicle body to optimize ride comfort, handling, and load capacity, while also adjusting the compression ratio of the shock absorbers to suit the terrain. Additionally, the new technology can also recognize cases where the Raptor is leaping with all four wheels off the ground to adjust the shock absorbers appropriately when the vehicle re-establishes contact. Accordingly, in this test, the Ford pickup successfully landed smoothly and quietly, without feeling like it was just lifted into the air.
4. Toyota RAV4 – 190,118 units
In its return with the fifth generation, Toyota RAV4 has become larger and more powerful than ever before. Despite borrowing many ideas from the FT-AC concept model, the vehicle has been completely redesigned both inside and out. Like the Prius, C-HR, and some previous models, the 2019 RAV4 utilizes the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) chassis. The vehicle's wheelbase now measures 269 cm, which is over 3.04 cm longer than the previous version. Whether you like it or not, Toyota deserves praise for its innovative design of the 2019 Toyota RAV4. While the previous RAV4 had a rounder front end, the new RAV4's front looks much more rugged and angular. The front lights and grille of the vehicle have become significantly sharper. The fog lights of the car have also been raised higher. It can be seen that the vehicle has borrowed some exterior design cues from its sibling, the Tacoma.
The body of the 2019 Toyota RAV4 looks more imposing than before due to the addition of many trim layers. The square wheel arches further emphasize the new height of the vehicle. Specifically, the ground clearance of the RAV4 has increased by about 1.27 cm. Additionally, the 2019 RAV4 also offers the option of a two-tone body and roof, which is quite popular in the crossover/SUV segment. With this version, the vehicle's rearview mirrors have been attached to the doors instead of the A-pillar to improve visibility for the driver. It is known that the 2019 RAV4 is equipped with the most advanced electronic rearview mirror camera system in its segment. The interior layout of the 2019 RAV4 is arranged vertically with the infotainment screen positioned at the top, followed by two air vents for air conditioning. At the bottom are the control buttons for all functions in the vehicle's cabin. The steering wheel of the vehicle remains a three-spoke design similar to the previous version. The interior design of the 2019 RAV4 provides a strong and distinctive feeling. The highlight of the 2019 RAV4 is the eye-catching orange leather accents on the center console. The seats of the vehicle are available in black or mocha Softex premium material. The driver's seat is equipped with 8-way power adjustment with position memory and 2-way lumbar support. Customers can opt for additional features such as ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. The rear seat space has been significantly improved with increased left and right armrests and foot space.
The safety features of the 2019 Toyota RAV4 include 8-position airbags, advanced vehicle stability control system (VSC), traction control system (TRAC), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake assist (BA), anti-lock braking system (ABS), and smart stop technology (SST). The driver assistance and safety features of the 2019 Toyota RAV4 include forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and emergency braking, intelligent cruise control system, lane departure warning, steering assistance, and intelligent headlights. Some other safety technologies include blind spot monitoring (BSM), rear cross traffic alert (RCTA), panoramic camera, intelligent ultrasonic detection technology (ICS), and rear emergency braking (RCTB). Two new technologies making their debut on the 2019 RAV4 are lane keeping assist (LTA) and road sign recognition (RSA) systems.
As for the engine, the RAV4 still uses a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission or continuously variable transmission (CVT) (hybrid version). Toyota has stated that this engine has been refined to achieve better performance than before. Both engine configurations will use a full-time all-wheel-drive system. Experts believe that the 2019 RAV4 will operate very smoothly due to a 3 to 4% reduction in vehicle drag thanks to the new chassis. This component allows air to flow smoothly under the vehicle, making the RAV4 'glide' much smoother than before. Additionally, the hybrid AWD-i drivetrain of the 2019 RAV4 has increased power by 50% compared to the previous version. Therefore, the vehicle will have stronger towing capabilities and a more agile feel when cornering.
5. Honda CR-V – 190,319 units
In terms of overall exterior appearance, the new CR-V boasts a much more angular and robust design compared to its predecessor. The overall dimensions (Length x Width x Height) of the vehicle are 4,584 x 1,855 x 1,679 (mm), with a wheelbase of 2,660mm. Compared to the previous version, the width has increased by 30mm, and the wheelbase is now 40mm longer. At the front, the Honda CR-V features a completely different, rugged, and somewhat 'aggressive' face. The grille is now prominently designed with shiny chrome bars, connected to two sharp headlights. Meanwhile, right in the middle is the familiar H logo. Below, the raised mudguards with prominent crease lines contribute to the CR-V 2019's added strength.
The lighting system on the vehicle has a cleaner new design and improved graphics inside. All three versions feature LED daytime running lights and LED taillights. However, the base E version uses halogen headlights, while the G and L versions feature automatic on/off LED headlights with adjustable beam angles. The 2019 Honda CR-V is equipped with 18-inch twist-spoke alloy wheels paired with 235/60 tires on all three versions. Additionally, the Japanese automaker has added a large chrome strip below the side panels and widened the wheel arches to give the vehicle a more stable appearance.
Stepping inside, the cabin does not have many differences. However, Honda has 'fine-tuned' every detail to bring a more modern breath. The first change is the 5+2 configuration. In the new generation, the Honda CR-V has an additional third row of 2 seats. This is a major advantage of the vehicle for three-generation families. In the midsize crossover segment today, besides the CR-V, there are also X-Trail and Outlander models that apply this configuration. All seats are upholstered in beige leather for the E version and black for the G and L versions.
On all three versions, under the hood is a DOHC VTEC Turbo 1.5L engine with direct injection PGM-FI fuel system, producing a maximum power of 188 horsepower and a maximum torque of 240Nm, paired with a completely new continuously variable transmission (CVT) applying EARTH DREAM TECHNOLOGY. The manufacturer's stated fuel consumption is 5.7 liters/100km urban, 8.9 liters/100km extra-urban, and 6.9 liters/100km combined. The 2019 Honda CR-V has the advantage of being an imported model, spacious seating space, especially suitable for three-generation families who regularly carry many people. In addition, the list of amenities and safety features is complete for family or work purposes, with turbocharged engine for good performance. However, the vehicle still lacks the option of all-wheel drive, the features on the E version do not correspond to the selling price compared to competitors, and the front passenger seat is still manually adjustable, which are some minor drawbacks of the 2019 Honda CR-V.
6. Volkswagen Tiguan – 173,058 units
As a luxury compact SUV competing against rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Volvo XC60, the Tiguan Allspace 2019 is the premium and only variant officially distributed by Volkswagen in Vietnam (the car is imported completely built-up from Mexico), with an official price of 1,699 billion dong. At this price point, the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace 2019 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 are the two candidates with the best prices in the segment. However, while the GLC 200 only has a two-wheel-drive system, the Tiguan Allspace excels with its AWD (all-wheel-drive) system called 4Motion.
The 2019 Tiguan Allspace features a sharp, angular design, accompanied by luxurious and modern exterior equipment such as advanced lighting systems with LED headlights and active fog lights that adjust the light range when turning. The rear LED taillights have high contrast, making it easy to recognize the Tiguan Allspace 2019 from a distance. The main headlight cluster with LED daytime running lights truly has soul and provides a very powerful feeling. The vehicle's grille consists of three chrome bars with the Volkswagen emblem placed in the middle, exuding luxury. The front bumper is robust with a honeycomb grille, while the fog lights are halogen type, providing yellow light that is more effective in 'breaking through' fog than the white light of LED headlights when driving in foggy conditions.
The interior space of the 2019 Tiguan Allspace may not immediately catch the eye when glanced at. However, when you sit for a while, you will find this interior space very accurate and without any excess details. Additionally, the interior is developed with an angular, masculine, and 'the more you look, the more you like' direction. The layout details are very reasonable and it only takes a few minutes to grasp all the features without being visually overwhelmed. All seats of the vehicle are upholstered in premium leather and adorned with beautiful decorative stitching. The steering wheel is also leather-wrapped and has a sporty design, providing a very enjoyable grip, along with many convenient control buttons. Notably, all front seats are power-adjustable and have massage functions, unique in the segment.
The Tiguan Allspace uses a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged TSI engine producing 180 horsepower at 3,940 - 6,000 rpm and a torque of 320Nm at 1,500 – 3,940 rpm. Achieving maximum power and torque at low rpms helps reduce fuel consumption. The vehicle's performance is quite impressive for a 1.7-ton SUV, with an acceleration from 0-100km/h in just 7.9 seconds, before reaching a maximum speed of 208km/h. The new generation 2.0-liter TSI engine consumes an average of 7.8 liters of gasoline per 100km under standard conditions. Along with the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, which ensures optimal road grip in all driving conditions, the Tiguan will make your journey perfect without hesitating on off-road trails, taking all passengers to explore the places they desire.
7. Volkswagen Golf – 177,503 units
The 2019 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a new 1.4-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine to replace the previous 1.8-liter engine. Despite being 23 horsepower weaker, the new car's engine has the same torque of 249Nm as in the 2018 Golf manual version (the automatic version has a torque of 270Nm). The new 1.4-liter engine is paired with a new 6-speed manual gearbox and an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Therefore, the impact of this engine on the Golf's acceleration is negligible to the point of being nonexistent. The 2019 Jetta sedan uses the same engine and takes 7.7 seconds to accelerate from 0-96km/h in Caranddriver's test (equipped with the 8-speed automatic transmission of the 2019 Golf). This figure is equivalent to the acceleration capability of the 2018 Golf with the 1.8T engine and 6-speed automatic transmission.
The official fuel economy figures for the 2019 Volkswagen Golf are not yet available but are expected to improve. The 2018 model was EPA-rated at 8.4 liters/100km in combined driving and 7.1 liters/100km on the highway. Meanwhile, the Jetta has an estimated fuel economy of about 6.9 liters/100km in combined driving and 5.9 liters/100km on the highway (according to the EPA). The Volkswagen Golf update also benefits from the engine stop/start system (for the automatic version). This system shuts off the engine when the vehicle stops. Additionally, the Volkswagen Golf GTI also features new technologies, including: Front collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring (Front Assist); Blind spot monitor; Rear traffic alert; Adaptive cruise control (ACC); Lane-keeping system (Lane Assist); Park distance control; Park steering assistant (Park Assist); and High beam control (Light Assist).
With the new equipment, especially the new generation LED lighting system, the Volkswagen Golf GTI has received the 2019 TOP SAFETY PICK award. This is the highest award for evaluating the safety of vehicles on the road. This award is assessed and recognized by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). “This award demonstrates Volkswagen's long-term commitment to vehicle safety and innovative technology development,” said Derrick Hatami, Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Aftersales at Volkswagen of America. Most importantly, this award also confirms Volkswagen's comeback in the US market.
8. Toyota Camry – 164,158 units
If there's one word to describe the entirely new Toyota Camry 2019, it's a transformation. Viewers will find it nearly impossible to find similarities between the new-generation Camry and its predecessors. With the 8th generation, the 2019 Toyota Camry truly brings users novelty, youthfulness, and athleticism. But it still maintains the philosophy that has run through many generations, which is luxury. The front end of the 2019 Toyota Camry is considered to have an attractive design from the first glance through the application of a dual grille design. The grille includes a large main air intake located low and extends widely to both sides, along with a large V-shaped chrome strip above.
The effect of the V-shaped chrome strip above, combined with slim headlights and the Toyota logo, gives the new Camry's design a wider, lower center of gravity. LED technology is extensively applied to the long/short-range lighting system, daytime running lights, and fog lights. Both versions use Bi-LED bulbs for better light concentration, while the 2.5Q version uses all-LEDs with a multi-layered daytime running light strip that looks very appealing. By the 8th generation, the body of the 2019 Camry has been sculpted with many refined, angular, and sporty lines. The standout in this area is the elongated cabin design sloping down towards the rear to the trunk area, giving a sense of spaciousness to the passenger compartment.
Over the years, Toyota has never been highly regarded for interior design, but with the new-generation Camry, many experts have been amazed and praised Toyota's car. Thanks to that, the new-generation Toyota Camry has entered the Top 10 most beautifully designed interior cars of 2018 as voted by Ward's Auto. The interior build quality of the 2019 Camry still ensures a harmonious combination of premium materials such as soft plastic, leather, faux wood trim, and bright satin silver plating... corresponding to a luxury sedan. Compared to the old version, the 2019 Camry's cockpit is designed with a more driver-centric focus. In Vietnam, the interior of the 2019 Toyota Camry will come in 2 color options: black and beige.
Although imported from Thailand, Vietnamese customers will still have to use the same engine models as previously appeared on the old-generation Camry. Specifically, the Camry 2.0G version is equipped with a 2.0L I-4 engine for 165 horsepower and 199 Nm of torque, while the Camry 2.5Q version has a 2.5L I-4 engine with 178 horsepower and 235 Nm of torque. Both are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Camry 2.5Q version will have an additional 3 driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, along with paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. Meanwhile, the Camry 2.5 in the Thai market is favored to use the all-new Dynamic Force Engine I-4 2.5L engine producing 207 horsepower, 250 Nm of torque. Of course, it is also paired with a new 8-speed gearbox. Currently, Toyota Vietnam has not brought this engine version to the market. Perhaps, users will have to wait for the upgraded version of the Camry in the near future.
9. Volkswagen Polo – 167,888 units
Volkswagen Polo 2019 is the 5th generation of the model introduced in 1975. Over nearly 40 years of shaping its position in the market, this model has achieved many successes for the German car brand and numerous major awards. In particular, the current generation introduced in Vietnam has been honored as the 'Best European Car' or 'World's Best Car'... The Volkswagen Polo inherits a simple and neutral design suitable for many demographics rather than following a bold style. Looking at the front end, it gives a calm and elegant feeling with a 3-horizontal-bar grille and a chrome-plated strip at the lower bumper along with the Volkswagen emblem placed in the middle.
Similar to the exterior design style, the interior of the Volkswagen Polo also follows a simple and logically arranged style. The interior is not overly flashy but rather simple, and after driving a few laps, one can get used to almost all functions. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather, the lower part is not completely round but slightly flattened, making steering very enjoyable. Besides, there are buttons for volume control, music, or answering the phone. Unfortunately, there is no Cruise Control system.
The car is equipped with a 4-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1.6L, producing 105 horsepower and a maximum torque of 153 Nm at 3,800 rpm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Safety features of the car include airbags for the front seats, ABS brakes, and EBD. With a price starting from 699 million VND, the Volkswagen Polo still cannot compete with other rivals in terms of pricing. While the exterior design, interior equipment, or safety are only at an adequate level. However, Polo is still a good car for those who love driving sensations due to its powerful engine, authentic steering, and sturdy chassis.
10. Volkswagen Lavida – 143,686 units
Built on the MQB modular platform instead of PQ34, the new Volkswagen Lavida continues to straddle the line between the B and C segments, with an overall length of 4,670mm, width of 1,806mm, height of 1,474mm, and a long wheelbase of 2,688mm. In China, the Lavida fills the gap between the Santana base (built on the Polo) and the Sagitar (a rebranded version of the previous Jetta), although the Lavida Plus is larger than the Sagitar.
The Lavida also receives some similar features as the latest Passat and Arteon, with standard LED headlights seamlessly integrated with the horizontal grille, strong shoulder lines, faux air vents on the wheel arches, Lavida emblem at the end of the front wheels, and three-dimensional LED taillights. Additionally, the rearward-sloping C-pillars have been pushed back to give the car a coupe-like, dynamic appearance. Inside, the dashboard of the Volkswagen Lavida is reminiscent of the new Polo, featuring a clean horizontal design and the infotainment system placed on the air conditioning vents.
For powertrain options, the Volkswagen Lavida offers 3 different engine choices: a 1.5-liter EA211 petrol engine with 114 horsepower, a fuel consumption of only 5.5 liters/100 km; a 1.2-liter engine also producing 114 horsepower; and finally, a powerful 148 horsepower turbocharged TSI 1.4-liter petrol engine. The 1.4-liter engine allows the Volkswagen Lavida to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 8.3 seconds. All engine variants of the new sedan are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual gearbox, standard with an automatic Stop/Start system.
