Electric vehicles are no longer a futuristic concept—they are the present, and rapidly becoming the norm. As automakers race to make EVs more affordable, practical, and appealing, VinFast has introduced a game-changer in the compact electric SUV segment: the VinFast VF 3.
Designed specifically for urban environments, the VF 3 blends compact dimensions with SUV-inspired design cues. With its affordable pricing strategy, smart features, and practical electric range, it is aimed at first-time EV buyers and those looking for an efficient city runabout. Let’s dive into a comprehensive look at what the VinFast VF 3 offers and whether it’s poised to revolutionize the entry-level EV segment.
VinFast VF 3 Overview
The VinFast VF 3 is a 2-door, four-seat mini electric SUV. Unlike many compact EVs that look like hatchbacks, the VF 3 stands out with its boxy, rugged design inspired by traditional SUVs—offering a unique combination of style and practicality.
Targeted towards young urban drivers and families needing a second car, the VF 3 boasts a small footprint, decent ground clearance, and features that make it an ideal commuter vehicle for congested cities.
Key Features of VinFast VF 3
- Compact SUV design
- Electric powertrain with up to 210 km of range
- Smart touchscreen interface
- Foldable rear seats for additional cargo space
- Designed for global markets including India, Vietnam, and Indonesia
- Budget-friendly pricing
Dimensions and Exterior Design
The VinFast VF 3 may be small, but it leaves a strong visual impression. With sharp lines, squared wheel arches, high ground clearance, and modern LED lighting, the vehicle looks more like a scaled-down SUV than a typical city EV.
Dimensions:
- Length: 3,190 mm
- Width: 1,679 mm
- Height: 1,622 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,075 mm
- Ground Clearance: Approx. 191 mm
Thanks to these dimensions, the VF 3 is highly maneuverable, easy to park, and well-suited to navigating tight city streets while still providing decent cabin space.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the VF 3 maintains a minimalist yet modern design language. The dashboard is simple, with a large central infotainment screen that doubles as a digital display. The cabin offers seating for four and provides more space than expected in a car of its size.
Interior Highlights:
- 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support
- Wireless charging pad
- Fabric or leatherette upholstery (varies by trim)
- Fold-flat rear seats for added boot space
Boot space is rated at around 285 liters with the seats up, and can go up to 550 liters with the rear seats folded flat. That’s impressive for a car under 3.2 meters in length.
Performance and Range
The VinFast VF 3 is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor delivering a modest power output suited for urban driving. The motor is paired with a single-speed automatic transmission.
Performance Specs:
- Motor Power: 32 kW (approx. 43 horsepower)
- Torque: 110 Nm
- Battery Capacity: 18.64 kWh
- Range: Approx. 210 km (NEDC)
- Top Speed: 100 km/h (estimated)
- Acceleration (0–50 km/h): Approx. 5.3 seconds
In real-world conditions (based on more conservative WLTP or EPA standards), the VF 3 is expected to deliver around 120–150 km on a single charge, which is sufficient for daily urban commutes.
Charging Capabilities
The VF 3 supports both AC and DC fast charging.
- DC Fast Charging: 10% to 70% in approx. 36 minutes
- AC Charging: Full charge in 5–6 hours (depending on charger capacity)
This ensures that users can quickly top up at fast-charging stations or conveniently charge overnight at home using a wall-mounted charger.
Features and Technology
Despite its budget-friendly pricing, the VF 3 is packed with useful technology and comfort features:
| Category | Features |
|---|---|
| Infotainment | 10-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, smartphone connectivity |
| Convenience | Keyless entry, power windows, folding rear seats |
| Safety | ABS, EBD, reverse camera, dual airbags, seatbelt reminders |
| Climate Control | Manual air conditioning with rear vents |
| Charging Support | AC and DC fast charging compatibility |
| Other Highlights | Wireless phone charging, USB ports, LED DRLs |
While it doesn’t include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), it meets essential safety needs for urban driving.
Target Market and Positioning
The VinFast VF 3 is aimed at:
- First-time EV buyers
- Young professionals and college students
- Families needing a second car
- Ride-sharing and fleet operators in urban areas
Its design, range, and feature set make it a compelling alternative to petrol-powered hatchbacks and scooters, especially for those looking to transition to electric mobility at a reasonable price.
Comparison Table: VinFast VF 3 vs Competitors
| Model | VinFast VF 3 | MG Comet EV | Tata Tiago EV | Citroën eC3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹10–12 lakhs (est.) | ₹7.98–9.98 lakhs | ₹8.69–11.99 lakhs | ₹11.61–12.79 lakhs |
| Body Type | Mini SUV | Hatchback | Hatchback | Compact SUV |
| Length (mm) | 3,190 | 2,974 | 3,769 | 3,981 |
| Battery Capacity | 18.64 kWh | 17.3–15.5 kWh | 19.2–24 kWh | 29.2 kWh |
| Claimed Range | 210 km (NEDC) | 200–230 km | 250–315 km | 320 km |
| Charging (DC Fast) | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
| Infotainment | 10″ touchscreen | 10.25″ touchscreen | 7″ screen | 10″ screen |
Global Expansion Plans
VinFast has shown strong ambitions in entering new markets like:
- Vietnam (home market)
- Indonesia
- India (manufacturing plant under development)
- Europe and North America (long-term expansion targets)
In India, VinFast has already showcased the VF 3 at key expos and is likely to enter the market in the coming year through CKD (Completely Knocked Down) assembly to maintain cost efficiency.
Pros and Cons of the VinFast VF 3
Pros:
- Affordable pricing for an electric SUV
- Compact design with SUV styling
- Usable electric range for city driving
- Quick DC charging capability
- High ground clearance and practical space
Cons:
- Two-door layout may reduce family appeal
- Limited real-world range for highway use
- Lacks advanced driver assistance systems
- No front trunk or additional cargo space
Final Thoughts
The VinFast VF 3 is not just another small electric car. It’s a statement from a growing EV manufacturer that compact, stylish, and affordable electric mobility is within reach for urban dwellers across Asia and beyond.
With its rugged SUV styling, competitive range, and aggressive pricing, the VF 3 is well-positioned to attract young buyers and eco-conscious consumers. Its simple yet functional feature set, combined with fast-charging capabilities and clever use of space, makes it ideal for short-distance commutes and intra-city driving.
As VinFast scales production and expands into new markets, the VF 3 could become a bestseller in the budget EV space—especially in traffic-dense regions like India, Vietnam, and Southeast Asia.