VinFast VF6 Review: The Bold Challenger in the EV Arena
VinFast, the Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, has introduced the VF6, a compact crossover SUV aimed directly at the heart of the global and Indian electric vehicle market. The VF6 marks VinFast’s smallest SUV to date but delivers big in terms of ambition, equipment, and strategy. This review outlines every detail—from powertrain to pricing—of a vehicle expected to redefine the B-segment electric SUV space.
Positioning and Production
VinFast designed the VF6 to challenge compact electric SUVs in a highly competitive market. It targets rivals such as the Hyundai Creta EV, Mahindra BE 6, Tata Curvv EV, BYD Atto 3, and MG’s upcoming Windsor EV. The manufacturer positioned the VF6 to deliver premium features at competitive pricing.
VinFast chose India as a major production and export hub. A new plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, will begin production by late June 2025, with an annual output capacity of 150,000 units. The company invested over ₹2,000 crore and plans to expand operations to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, creating a localized EV ecosystem.
Design and Styling
The VF6’s design, created in collaboration with Italian firms Pininfarina and Torino Design, features a striking, modern aesthetic. A signature ‘V’-shaped LED strip anchors both the front and rear. Large black cladding around the wheel arches and bumpers gives the SUV a sturdy, off-road-ready look.
A coupe-like roofline and neatly contoured tail add a premium crossover feel. The 18-inch alloy wheels, optimized for ride comfort, enhance road presence without compromising handling. VinFast engineered the Indian variant with increased ground clearance (190 mm) and suspension tweaks for rougher roads.
Interior and Features
The interior features a minimalist, open layout. The dashboard remains low-set, offering improved front visibility. Instead of a traditional instrument cluster, the VF6 projects essential information onto a standard head-up display (HUD). A 12.9-inch freestanding touchscreen acts as the command center, angled slightly toward the driver for easier access.
The cabin houses ventilated, power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a flat-bottom steering wheel. A panoramic sunroof brings natural light into the cabin, improving the feeling of space. Vegan leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and high-quality plastics maintain a premium feel.
Space and Practicality
The VF6 measures 4,238 mm in length, 1,820 mm in width, and 1,594 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,730 mm. These dimensions translate into ample cabin space for a vehicle in its class. Rear seat legroom and headroom meet daily commuting and long-trip demands.
The rear seatbacks split 60:40 and fold flat to increase cargo capacity. The boot space measures 423 liters, with additional underfloor storage. However, the vehicle lacks a front trunk (frunk), which some competitors include.
Powertrain and Driving Dynamics
VinFast offers two versions of the VF6: Eco and Plus.
- Eco Variant:
- Motor: 130 kW (174 hp)
- Torque: 250 Nm
- Range: 399 km (WLTP)
- Plus Variant:
- Motor: 150 kW (201 hp)
- Torque: 310 Nm
- Range: 381 km (WLTP)
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in approximately 7.7 seconds
The 59.6 kWh battery pack powers both trims. VinFast optimized the power delivery for urban and highway driving. Throttle response feels crisp, and the torque curve provides punchy acceleration. The front-wheel-drive layout ensures predictable handling, while the suspension balances comfort with body control.
VinFast fine-tuned the Indian variant’s suspension to tackle uneven roads, potholes, and speed bumps. The result feels composed and cushioned across city streets and highways alike.
Ride Quality and Handling
The VF6 delivers a balanced ride, courtesy of its 18-inch wheels, taller sidewalls, and 190 mm ground clearance. Suspension travel handles irregularities smoothly, with minimal cabin intrusion. Body roll remains contained during cornering, thanks to the low center of gravity and fine chassis tuning.
Steering feedback feels accurate for daily use. At higher speeds, the vehicle maintains stability and road grip. The overall driving experience feels intuitive, refined, and suitable for both first-time EV users and seasoned drivers.
Technology and Connectivity
The 12.9-inch touchscreen supports over-the-air (OTA) updates and integrates navigation, media, and diagnostics. VinFast includes voice command features and native support for major mobile ecosystems like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A premium audio system enhances in-cabin entertainment.
The head-up display replaces the conventional instrument cluster and displays speed, battery percentage, navigation, and alerts. The interface responds swiftly and minimizes driver distraction.
Charging Capabilities
VinFast equipped the VF6 with strong charging flexibility:
- AC Charging: 11 kW onboard charger
- Full charge in 6–7 hours (home charging station)
- DC Fast Charging: 10–70% in 24 minutes
- CCS standard
- Compatibility with India’s expanding fast-charger infrastructure
The battery cooling system ensures consistent charging performance under hot Indian conditions.
Safety and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
VinFast prioritizes safety in the VF6 with an impressive suite of features:
- Seven airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic stability control
- Traction control
- Hill-hold and descent control
- Rear cross-traffic alert
The VF6 also integrates Level 2 ADAS capabilities, including:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane centering assist
- Blind spot monitoring
- Emergency lane-keeping
- Automatic emergency braking
- Highway assist
- 360-degree cameras for enhanced visibility
These systems improve driving confidence and reduce the risk of accidents in dense city traffic or high-speed highway cruising.
Expected Pricing and Availability
VinFast plans to launch the VF6 in India during August 2025, aligned with the festive season. The anticipated price range falls between ₹30 lakh and ₹45 lakh, depending on variant and features.
VinFast aims to offer a 10-year battery warranty and an 8-year vehicle warranty, which will likely appeal to EV adopters seeking long-term ownership confidence.
Competition Analysis
The VF6 competes against a rapidly evolving electric SUV field:
- Hyundai Creta EV matches in size and performance.
- Mahindra BE 6 and Tata Curvv EV offer futuristic designs and similar range.
- BYD Atto 3 includes more frills but carries a higher price.
- MG Windsor EV enters the market with tech-focused branding.
- Tata Harrier EV offers more power but less compact convenience.
VinFast holds a unique advantage through local manufacturing, feature-rich packaging, and a focus on user experience. The vehicle also enters as one of the few to offer standard HUD and Level 2 ADAS at this price point.
Strategic Importance
The VF6 serves as a strategic pillar for VinFast’s India ambitions. By starting production locally, the company cuts import costs and aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative. The Tamil Nadu facility, with future expansions planned, positions VinFast as a long-term player.
VinFast builds its strategy not just around sales but on creating a vertically integrated EV ecosystem—batteries, vehicles, and charging included.
Conclusion
The VinFast VF6 emerges as a compact electric SUV that blends stylish design, intelligent technology, and dynamic performance. It introduces features not commonly available in its price segment, including Level 2 ADAS, HUD, and a high-quality interior layout.
With local production, strong pricing, and future-forward features, the VF6 looks set to establish VinFast as a force in India’s growing EV market. Its success could redefine consumer expectations in the compact SUV space and elevate competition to a new level.
