For those who are unaware, Vinfast is a Vietnamese automaker that shifted its focus from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric mobility very rapidly. Its small electric SUV, the VF 6, is designed to compete with the Mahindra BE.06, Hyundai Creta EV, and the recently released Tata Harrier EV. It is anticipated to debut in India in around two months, right before the holiday season.
The VF 6 is broader and has a larger wheelbase than the Creta, while being shorter in length. It has five seats, 423 liters of trunk capacity, and weighs more than two tons. The Creta retains a conventional, blocky SUV stance, whilst the VF 6 tends closer toward a crossover look. We anticipate that the VF 6 will be substantially less expensive than the Hyundai Creta EV because both Vinfast and the VF 6 are relatively unknown brands in India.
What Makes the VF 6 Work
The SUV VF 6 is all electric. According to Vinfast, it is based on a born-electric foundation. But in reality, it seems more like an ICE-to-EV conversion, particularly when it comes to the interior packing and appearance, than a contemporary EV with a flat floor and maximized cabin capacity, like a skateboard.
The VF 6 has front-wheel drive, which is interesting. Although Vinfast does sell an all-wheel-drive model abroad, it will not be arriving in India anytime soon. A 200bhp, 310Nm torque motor is up front in the Indian variant. Even with its weight, the VF 6 can go from zero to one hundred kilometers per hour in less than nine seconds. Yes, it's quick, but not quite as thrilling as some of its rivals.
Off, Low, Medium, and High are the four regen braking settings available to you; the latter one allows one-pedal driving. Three driving modes are also available for the powertrain: Eco (for efficiency), Normal, and Sport (for maximum performance). A 59.6kWh battery pack, similar to those in the sector, provides power and is expected to have a range of about 440 kilometers. In keeping with the born-electric claim, the battery pack serves as the foundation of the construction. However, the suspension system is what distinguishes the VF 6. The VF 6 has independent suspension at all four corners, but the Creta has a torsion beam at the back. We'll assess this more carefully once we drive it on Indian roads, but this should help achieve a nice mix between handling and comfort.
Read also: All-Wheel Drive Car Reviews 2025
What is listed as a feature
The VF 6 must have a ton of features in addition to aggressive pricing in order to have a significant effect in India. Fortunately, Vinfast appears prepared with a strong armament.
Anticipate features like dual-zone temperature control, edge-to-edge panoramic sunroof, rapid charging, powered and ventilated front seats, all-LED lighting, heads-up display, and a completely button-free interface. An infotainment system with a huge central touchscreen handles the majority of tasks. Even for actions like adjusting the wing mirrors, the UI appeared snappy, lag-free, and easy to use during our brief experience with it.
Seven airbags and a comprehensive array of electronic aids, including ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, ESC, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist, and more, are among its many safety features. According to Vinfast, the VF 6 would also strive for a five-star Bharat NCAP crash rating.
Final Thoughts
There is real potential with the Vinfast VF 6. It has the features, build quality, design, and electric drivetrain to appeal to Indian consumers. But the price will be crucial. Indian consumers demand excellent value, but they aren't always searching for inexpensive automobiles. Vinfast may see significant market traction if it can meet that promise and support it with robust service, warranty, and repurchase initiatives.
