Contact us
Follow us:
Why do so many 7-seaters in Vietnam run on diesel, when 4-seaters almost never do, and should you rent one? Sedans here are nearly all petrol, but among 7-seaters, especially high-riding SUVs, diesel is far more common. This guide explains where that difference comes from, how to find out what fuel your rental 7-seater uses, and the pros and cons of each so you can choose.
A 4-seater is light, usually carries 1–3 passengers and spends a lot of time in the city, so petrol is the natural choice. A 7-seater is heavier and often runs fully loaded with luggage on provincial roads and mountain passes. There, diesel's strong low-rev pulling power used to be a clear advantage, which is why many high-riding 7-seaters sold in Vietnam come in diesel versions.
Fuel type always depends on the exact model year and trim, so don't guess from the model name. See our 7-seater cars.
| Petrol | Diesel | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Quiet, low vibration and little cabin odour; smooth in stop-and-go city traffic | Strong low-rev pulling power for full loads and mountain passes; usually uses fewer litres on long runs, although diesel currently costs more than petrol |
| Cons | Less low-rev pulling power than diesel when fully loaded | More noise and vibration; servicing and replacement parts cost more in Vietnam; diesel currently costs more per litre than petrol |
Neither is best for every trip. Choose by route, load and how you like the car to drive, and request petrol or diesel when you book. For the item-by-item servicing breakdown, read why diesel cars cost more to maintain.
With a chauffeur: the price includes fuel and tolls, so petrol versus diesel does not change your cost. Just choose by passengers, luggage and comfort.
Self-drive: the price does not include fuel or tolls, so you pay for your own fill-ups. Note that diesel currently costs more than petrol, and prices are adjusted periodically. To compare consumption on long routes, see petrol vs diesel on long trips.
A 7-seater is most comfortable with 4–5 passengers and up to about 4 suitcases. For more people or more luggage, consider a larger vehicle. Our fleet is model years 2022–2025, and prices in the quick-quote form already include the 10% discount.
7-seaters are heavier and often run fully loaded on long routes, where diesel pulling power used to matter. Light 4-seaters mostly drive in the city, so they are almost all petrol.
Yes. The fuel type is your choice; just say which you want when you book.
Both handle them when properly serviced. Diesel pulls harder uphill with a full load; petrol is quieter and smoother for passengers.
Real cars at the Car Rental Vietnam depot
Book a car
