VinFast, the famous Vietnamese electric car manufacturer, has recently launched the second generation version of the VF8 electric SUV. The young automotive company is expanding their global footprint and the second generation VF8 is their first second generation model in their lineup. This recently updated SUV promises improvements in driving performance and overall experience.
New Generation WinFast VF8
Where design is concerned, the new gen WinFast VF8 brings a more modern design language than its predecessor. It gets full-width wing-shaped LED DRLs, a huge gloss black grille and a more attractive fascia with other contrasts. At the rear, we can see a large black applique with connected LED taillights along with the V emblem.
On the sides, we can see the new 19-inch aerodynamic wheel design that looks like semi-flush door handles. There are some chrome highlights on the window line to add a premium touch. On the inside, we can see a completely new design with the second generation VF8. Some may feel that this is a downgrade as the infotainment screen has grown to 12.9 inches and the number of speakers has also reduced.
However, VinFast has added a TFT driver instrument cluster this time and given the second generation VF8 a new 2-spoke steering wheel. The gear selector remains column-mounted and notable features include ADAS, dual-zone climate control, memory function for the driver’s seat, 360-degree cameras and more.
The most interesting aspect of the VinFast VF8 is that it has not followed in the footsteps of the automotive industry where updates are concerned. The industry is moving towards larger size, larger batteries and greater range, but the second generation VinFast VF8 challenges all this as it is smaller in size and brings a smaller battery with lower capacity and lower range.
Small in dimension!
In terms of dimensions, the new gen VinFast VF8 measures 4,701 mm in length, 1,872 mm in width, 1,670 mm in height and has a 2,840 mm long wheelbase and 170 mm ground clearance. Which is 49 mm shorter in length, 62 mm shorter in width and 110 mm shorter in wheelbase. Height has increased by 3 mm and ground clearance by 8 mm with the new model.
In terms of powertrain, the second-generation VinFast VF8 comes with a smaller 60.13 kWh battery pack with a 500 km range, as opposed to the 87.7 kWh battery offered with the predecessor’s 562 km range. The previous model also offered an AWD option, which the new VF 8 does not. Where the FWD version goes, the new 2nd Gen model has 228 bhp and 330 Nm, 18 bhp and 20 Nm more.
It should be noted that many owners have reported some issues with the VinFast VF8 regarding software reliability, powertrain tuning, drivetrain tuning, production quality, and others. The most notable among them are the 60 mph speed limit in cold weather, the extremely powerful creep mode that applies maximum torque to achieve a creep speed of 4 mph, calibration of traction control and ABS, etc.
WinFast actively worked on some of these and resolved them via OTA updates, but we wish none of them were present on the new model. Pricing starts at VND 999 million, which is around Rs 36.28 lakh and an India launch is unlikely.
