[QUICK REVIEW] VinFast VF5: Affordable, Spacious, and Fully Loaded

After the VF e34, VF8, and VF9 series; Vietnamese car manufacturer VinFast has just delivered VF5 cars to their first deposit customers. This is VinFast’s most affordable electric car, listed at 458 million VND, including several accompanying promotions.

For example, VinFast will deduct 20 million VND for pioneering customers who have deposited 10 million and corresponding deductions of 30 million for customers who have deposited 20 million. Additionally, residents who purchase homes in Vin Homes urban areas and own a “green living” voucher will receive free parking and charging at the corresponding charging station system for 2 years.

So, in addition to the car ownership cost, customers only need to pay an additional 1.6 million VND for monthly battery rental (unlimited mileage) with no additional fees. Furthermore, electric car buyers do not have to pay registration fees and have favorable conditions for first-time registration, making car ownership easier than ever due to recent adjustments in the law.

Compared to other models in its class, VinFast VF5 has a competitive price equivalent to A-class hatchback models such as Hyundai i10 or Kia Morning. However, its equipment list and dimensions are on par with higher-priced A-class SUVs, costing several hundred million VND, such as the Toyota Raize or Kia Sonet.

In terms of dimensions, the VinFast VF5 measures at 3,965 x 1,720 x 1,580 mm (LxWxH), with a wheelbase of 2,513 mm. Although the numbers on paper may not be the most impressive, the VF5 offers a more spacious interior compared to other A-class SUVs. This is achieved by not requiring space allocation for an engine and gearbox, typical of petrol models, resulting in a shorter bonnet and more space for passengers and luggage at the rear of the car.

While this design feature allows for more spacious headroom, tall passengers up to approximately 1.8m will find it comfortable. Additionally, rear passengers can adjust their seating position to further enhance their comfort during long journeys.

Overall, the dimensions of VinFast VF5 may not be on par with other models on paper, but the actual experience reveals a spacious interior and luggage compartment, which outperforms all other A-class models in the market. This is sufficient for a small family consisting of 2 adults and 2 children.

To achieve the attractive price point of 458 million VND, VinFast had to make some compromises in terms of equipment compared to its previous models, such as the VF e34 or VF8-VF9 duo. However, the option list of VF5 is still extensive and comparable to A-class SUVs costing several hundred million VND.

Notably, the front of the VinFast VF5 features an automatic Bi-Halogen lighting system with filament bulbs for turn signals. However, the car lacks daytime running lights. Additionally, the brand emblem in the form of a V-shaped bird wing on the grille surface is chrome trim instead of a luminous light as seen on older VinFast models.

The front and rear bumpers are both minimalistic in appearance, made of solid plastic material to optimize costs and improve aerodynamics for a maximum travel distance of over 300 km following each full charge of the 37.23 kWh battery pack.

Moving to the car’s body, VinFast equips the VF5 with a well-rounded set of tires appropriate for the segment, featuring light-colored multi-spoke wheels measuring 17 inches in size. This tire setup optimizes production costs while ensuring minimal noise enters the cabin during low-speed operation, contributing to a comfortable passenger experience.

The VinFast VF5 comes with a disc brake system on all four wheels, a standout feature compared to many other affordable models on the market where only the front wheels are equipped with disc brakes, while the rear wheels use drum brakes.

The car’s folding side mirrors are electronically adjustable and integrated with blind-spot warning. The rear of the car features a reverse camera and four distance sensors, providing collision warnings when reversing if there are crossing vehicles. The trunk lid is equipped with a damping mechanism allowing passengers to gently open the trunk, which has sufficient space to accommodate four cabin suitcases (carry-on size) and additional luggage.

VinFast VF5 offers up to 16 color options, including solid colors and dual-tone options where the mirrors and roof of the car are painted differently from the body color. In terms of the interior, the car provides three different color options, allowing buyers to choose according to their preferences and personality.

Stepping inside the car, VinFast VF5 presents a minimalist design aimed at optimizing space. The instrument panel features two screens: a 7-inch screen digital meter located behind the steering wheel and an 8-inch center infotainment screen.

However, VF5 lacks Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smart connectivity, a feature available in the VF e34, VF8, and VF9. Therefore, passengers can only connect their phones via Bluetooth to listen to music or make calls, but they cannot use navigation or maps—a deficiency that the Vietnamese brand should address through software updates.

For the driver, VinFast VF5 is equipped with a D-cut steering wheel similar to the VF e34. However, VF5 only features cruise control and lacks the smart driving support features found in the ADAS package of VF8 or VF9. In terms of safety, the car is equipped with iTPMS tire pressure sensors and six airbags for passenger protection during operation.

The car has a rotary knob to shift gears, offering R, N, and D modes but not a P mode. To park, users must select N and engage the handbrake. The single-zone air conditioning system on the VinFast VF5 performs well and cools the cabin quickly. The car is also equipped with a standard PM 2.5 air purifier system, a rare option in today’s budget models.

Inside, VinFast attempts to optimize costs by using faux leather plastic materials in most cabin areas, such as the dashboard surface and door trims. However, the armrest pads on both sides of the door are covered with stitched leather, providing a pleasant experience where passengers frequently touch. The seats are also wrapped in leather and come in two beautiful colors. The seat materials are soft and comfortable.

Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to test drive the VinFast VF5 during the car handover event to the first customers in Hanoi. However, the powerful configuration featuring 134 HP and a maximum torque of 135 Nm makes it superior to all A-class models and even some B-class models currently on the market. The optimized center of gravity resulting from the low-lying battery pack underneath the floor also promises an impressive driving experience in terms of acceleration, comfort levels, and soundproofing.

In summary, with the VF5, VinFast aims to make car ownership more accessible and convenient for Vietnamese consumers, aligning with the spirit of its sibling model, the Fadil. VinFast offers attractive pricing and policies, ensuring an easier path to car ownership. As a result, VinFast continues to dominate the Vietnamese car market and remains the leading brand among car manufacturers in the country.

Anh Phan (Tuoitrethudo)