Introduction
The global automotive industry is in the middle of a massive transformation. Electric vehicles are no longer niche—they’re mainstream. Among the newest and most ambitious players is VinFast, a Vietnamese automaker that is quickly gaining global attention. The company has already made headlines with its aggressive global expansion plans, cutting-edge EV technology, and bold designs.
One of VinFast’s most impressive offerings is the VinFast VF 9, a full-size, three-row electric SUV designed to compete with established luxury giants like Tesla Model X, Audi Q7 e-tron, BMW iX, and Mercedes EQS SUV. With futuristic styling by Pininfarina, a massive battery pack, luxury interiors, and advanced autonomous features, the VF 9 is not just a car—it’s a statement of intent.
we’ll dive deep into the VinFast VF 9, exploring its design, features, performance, range, charging capabilities, interior technology, global positioning, and its potential impact on the Indian EV market.
The VinFast Story: Vietnam’s Global EV Challenger
Before exploring the VinFast VF 9 price, it’s important to understand VinFast as a brand. Founded in 2017, VinFast is a subsidiary of Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest private conglomerate. In just a few short years, VinFast transitioned from producing internal combustion cars to going all-electric.
Today, VinFast is not just focused on its domestic market but is targeting global expansion, with manufacturing hubs and showrooms planned in multiple regions, including the United States, Europe, and India.
The VinFast VF 9 is the company’s flagship SUV—a showcase of everything VinFast can deliver in design, performance, and technology.
Design: Sculpted by Pininfarina for Global Appeal
The VinFast VF 9 is a large SUV—measuring more than 5 meters in length—that makes a bold statement on the road.
Exterior Styling
- Front Fascia: The VF 9 wears VinFast’s signature V-shaped LED light bar, symbolizing its identity.
- Sculpted Body: Designed by the legendary Italian design house Pininfarina, the SUV carries elegant lines balanced with an aerodynamic profile.
- Flush Door Handles: For improved aerodynamics and modern appeal.
- Panoramic Presence: Its sheer size rivals premium SUVs like the Audi Q7 and BMW X7, instantly giving it road presence.
The VinFast VF 9 is a fine blend of futuristic styling and practicality, aimed at premium buyers who value both aesthetics and substance.
Powertrain and Performance: Muscle Meets Refinement
At the heart of the VinFast VF 9 is a dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard.
- Battery: 123 kWh capacity
- Power Output: Around 402 hp (300 kW)
- Torque: 620 Nm
- 0–100 km/h: ~6.5 seconds
- Top Speed: 200 km/h
For a full-size SUV, these figures are impressive. The VinFast VF 9 delivers smooth yet powerful acceleration, making it suitable for highway cruising as well as city driving. Its AWD ensures better handling and stability across varied terrains.
Range and Charging: Ready for Long Journeys
One of the strongest selling points of the VinFast VF 9 is its long driving range.
- WLTP Rating: Up to 531 km
- EPA Rating (USA):
- Eco Trim: 330 miles (~531 km)
- Plus Trim: 291 miles (~468 km)
Charging Capability
- Fast Charging: 10% to 70% in just 35 minutes using DC fast chargers.
- Home Charging: Compatible with AC wall chargers, making overnight charging convenient.
This range and charging flexibility make the VinFast VF 9 a genuine long-distance electric cruiser.
Interior: Comfort and Luxury for Families
The VF 9 is built as a family-friendly luxury SUV with three-row seating. Buyers can choose between 6-seat (captain chairs) and 7-seat configurations.
Cabin Highlights
- Premium Materials: Soft-touch leather, brushed metals, and high-quality plastics.
- Infotainment: 15.6-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and OTA updates.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Adds openness to the cabin.
- Seating Comfort: Heated and ventilated seats, multiple adjustments, and excellent legroom in all three rows.
- Ambient Lighting: Customizable for a premium feel.
- Head-Up Display (HUD): Projects key driving information directly onto the windshield.
In short, the VF 9 feels like a lounge on wheels—perfect for long-distance journeys.
Technology and Safety: Packed with Innovations
VinFast has equipped the VF 9 with advanced driver-assist technologies, rivaling the best in class.
ADAS Features
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Centering & Lane Keep Assist
- Highway Assist with Auto Lane Change
- Collision Warning and Emergency Braking
- Blind Spot Detection
- Automated Parking & Remote Summon
Safety
- 11 Airbags
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- 360-degree camera system
- Advanced braking and stability systems
This makes the VF 9 not only luxurious but also one of the safest electric SUVs in its class.
Pricing and Global Positioning
In the U.S., the VF 9 is priced at:
- Eco Trim: ~$83,000
- Plus Trim: ~$91,000
These figures put it directly against the Tesla Model X, BMW iX, and Mercedes EQS SUV.
In India, while pricing hasn’t been officially announced, the VF 9 could cost upwards of ₹80 lakh to ₹1 crore (ex-showroom) if launched, given import duties and positioning as a flagship model.
VinFast in India: Big Plans Ahead
VinFast has already inaugurated a manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu (Thoothukudi), which will produce smaller SUVs like VF 6 and VF 7 initially. However, the company has confirmed that larger models like VF 9 will be showcased in India at events like the Bharat Mobility Expo.
The VF 9 may not be VinFast’s immediate focus for India, but it will serve as a halo product to showcase the brand’s technology, luxury, and ambitions.
Who is the VinFast VF 9 For?
The VF 9 is aimed at:
- Luxury EV buyers looking for something different from German brands.
- Families needing a three-row electric SUV with long range.
- Tech-savvy buyers who want the latest ADAS and smart features.
- Eco-conscious premium customers seeking zero-emission luxury travel.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | VinFast VF 9 |
|---|---|
| Battery | 123 kWh |
| Power | 402 hp |
| Torque | 620 Nm |
| Range (WLTP) | 531 km |
| Seating Capacity | 6 or 7 |
| 0–100 km/h | ~6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h |
| Charging | 10–70% in 35 min |
| ADAS | Level 2+ |
Final Thoughts
The VinFast VF 9 is an exciting new entrant in the premium EV space. With its bold design, powerful dual-motor setup, long driving range, luxury cabin, and advanced safety features, it has all the ingredients to challenge established EV giants.
For India, the VF 9 may not become a mass-market product due to its high price, but it will certainly put VinFast on the map as a serious contender in the global EV industry.
If VinFast successfully pairs its SUV offerings with localized production and charging infrastructure, the VF 9 could become a halo vehicle that inspires more buyers to trust and adopt the brand.
