Large Three-Row Electric SUV: The VF9
VinFast, the Vietnamese EV startup whose VF8 electric SUV launched in the U.S. earlier this year, has announced specifications and pricing for the larger VF9 model. A full-sized, seven-passenger SUV with all-electric power, the VF9 offers three rows of seats, a spacious cargo area, and distinctive exterior styling by renowned Italian design house Pininfarina.
VinFast VF9: Power and Range
The VF9 comes in two trim levels – Eco and Plus. The Eco model has a starting MSRP of $83,000, and comes with a huge 123 kWh of usable battery capacity. With standard all-wheel drive and a maximum power output of 420 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque, the VF9 Eco should be a sprightly performer. EPA-estimated range is 330 miles.
The more expensive VF9 Plus has more luxurious interior and exterior appointments, which increase comfort and style, but slightly impact the range. Larger wheels and other equipment mean that the VF9 Plus actually gets an EPA-estimated 291 miles out of the 123-kWh battery. Those are numbers that stack up well against the upcoming Kia EV9 as well as the Tesla Model Y and Model X.
At over $80,000, the VF9 won't be eligible for any federal tax credits, as it exceeds the price threshold; however, leasing may be an option that allows customers to take advantage of incentives that can help reduce the cost.
2024 VF9: Tech and Options
Standard equipment on the VF9 includes a full suite of advanced driver assistance technologies, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, and more. There’s even a smart parking assistant that helps to maneuver the car into parallel, perpendicular, or angled parking spots, and a “smart summon” mode that lets the vehicle pilot itself to where the driver is waiting.
On-board technology includes a large central touchscreen that also serves as the instrument cluster, an intelligent voice assistant for many vehicle functions, and a remote app that allows owners to access vehicle data, book maintenance and roadside assistance, and operate many functions remotely. Over-the-air updates help keep the vehicle future-proof as VinFast releases better software and additional functions.
Deliveries at End of 2023
VinFast is mum on any more details about the VF9, though they are now taking deposits for the electric SUV on their website. The company says that the VF9 is expected on our shores by the end of 2023.
While the smaller VF8 got roasted by mainstream automotive media thanks to its far-from impressive range in launch form, on paper the VF9 looks to be a pretty solid product, and its 330-mile estimated range is among the best on the market for a large SUV. It also has a compelling 10-year, 125,000-mile warranty for the vehicle, and a 10-year, unlimited-mileage warranty for the battery, which is class-leading.
