VinFast VF 8

The VF 8 is VinFast's two-row electric SUV for the US, built for buyers who want a family SUV with a big battery and Pininfarina styling. It comes in two trims, Eco and Plus. Both use two motors and the same 87.7 kWh usable battery, so the choice comes down to range against power.

Range, power and charging

The Eco is rated at 256 miles of EPA range and 349 hp (260 kW). The Plus is rated at 235 miles and 402 hp (300 kW). VinFast quotes 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. DC fast charging takes the battery from 10 to 70 percent in 31 minutes on both trims, and VinFast says its drivers can reach more than 250,000 public chargers across North America.

Inside and technology

The cabin has a 15.6 inch touchscreen, vegan leather seats, customisable ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel and a panoramic sunroof, though features vary by version and configuration. A driver monitoring system recognises the driver and adjusts settings to their preferences. A voice assistant answers questions about navigation, music and podcasts. The VinFast App provides vehicle data, remote control, navigation, maintenance booking and roadside assistance.

Safety equipment

Eleven airbags are fitted: dual-stage front, middle, knee, side impact and seat-mounted side airbags. An Emergency SOS button contacts first responders. Driver assistance includes Automatic Emergency Stop Assist, Rear Automatic Emergency Brake, Intersection Assist, Auto Lane Changing Assist and Evasive Steering Assist, and a head-up display keeps information in the driver's line of sight. VinFast notes that some assistance features may arrive in a later software update and may need a subscription.

Size and ownership

The VF 8 is 187 inches long, 76.1 inches wide and 65.6 inches tall on a 116.1 inch wheelbase. The vehicle warranty is 10 years or 125,000 miles, and the battery has a 10 year warranty with unlimited miles under standard use.

Key facts

• Range: 256 miles (EPA, Eco) or 235 miles (Plus)
• Battery: 87.7 kWh usable
• Power: 349 hp (Eco), 402 hp (Plus), two motors
• DC fast charging: 10 to 70 percent in 31 minutes
• Airbags: 11
• Warranty: 10 years or 125,000 miles