Vinfast VF6 First Drive Review, Range: Can It Take On The Curvv And The BE6?

Ground clearance is ample at 190mm and yes, the VF6 looks appealing in a crowd of compact SUVs. The interiors on the cars we drove were all black but India spec cars could be different

The touchscreen is angled towards the driver but the materials/ general quality is good although some hard plastics are used too

Source : Somnath Chatterjee

The VF6 would be the volume driver for Vinfast in India and take on the compact SUV segment within the EV category. That means locking horns with the established competition. The VF6 is around 4.2m and the wheelbase is 2730mm. What clearly makes a difference is the styling which is distinctive. There are the clear V shaped elements while the sloping roofline further makes it a good looking SUV. 

 

Ground clearance is ample at 190mm and yes, the VF6 looks appealing in a crowd of compact SUVs. The interiors on the cars we drove were all black but India spec cars could be different. The touchscreen is angled towards the driver but the materials/ general quality is good although some hard plastics are used too. 

 

 

The main screen contains most of the functions with not many physical buttons. Space is decent but the rear seat is a bit tight especially when compared to other cars although the full glass roof adds a sense of space. Equipment levels include a HUD, full glass roof, ADAS, dual zone climate control, ventilated seats, powered driver seat, 7 airbags, 360 degree camera etc. The VF6 will have a single motor configuration with a 59.6 kwh battery pack with 204hp. Range would be more than 450ish which is decent while a 5-star BNCAP rating would be expected. 

 

 

 

We had a very short spin but the VF6 was similar to the big brother VF7 with a distinct European feel in terms of its handling as well as the firm but taut suspension. The small steering wheel makes it fun and easy to drive while the power delivery is linear but quick. The various modes also change the acceleration as well as the steering but the overall dynamic experience is clearly of being a sporty SUV. 

 

 

On first impressions, there is plenty to live about the VF6 notably the design, performance and the quality levels while pricing will ultimately be the key element. Being part of the VinGroup, there would be a robust service and charging network too which is crucial for the brand. While we await to drive the India spec car, the VF6 is quite an interesting option.