2023 VinFast VF 9: A Luxurious Three-Row Electric SUV

VinFast, a rising Vietnamese automaker, is set to make a significant impact in the EV market with its latest offering, the VF 9. Positioned as a premium three-row electric SUV, the VF 9 aims to attract customers through its high-end interior and innovative battery leasing program. As one of the first three-row electric SUVs in the market, the 2023 VinFast VF 9 combines power, affordability, and distinctive features to offer an intriguing option for consumers. Let’s delve deeper into the details of this upcoming vehicle.

Release Date:

The 2023 VinFast VF 9 is scheduled for release in late 2022, aligning with its smaller sibling, the VF 8. However, models featuring the larger battery will be available in 2023.

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Price and Competition:

With an initial price of $57,500 in the USA, the 2023 VinFast VF 9 offers excellent value. This price, however, does not include the battery subscription fee, which amounts to $219 per month for unlimited miles. VinFast has implemented this unique approach to reduce the vehicle’s cost, while also covering battery repairs and maintenance. The fixed monthly subscription rate only applies to orders placed until the end of 2022, with the potential for increasing subscription costs afterward. Additionally, VinFast introduced the Flexible plan, which offers a reduced fee of $44 per month for customers with lower mileage requirements. Beyond the 310-mile limit, the fee per mile increases to $0.15.

Please note that the availability of the Flexible plan may vary, and it’s advisable to contact VinFast for the most up-to-date information. Alternatively, customers can purchase the VF 9 with the battery included at a higher price of $76,000, offering a more predictable ownership experience. In terms of competition, the Kia EV9 is expected to be a close rival once it becomes available.

Exterior and Colors:

The 2023 VinFast VF 9 showcases a distinctive exterior design. The front features an elegant lighting signature that extends from the headlights to the central V emblem, creating a cohesive visual theme. This design element repeats at the rear, while the sides incorporate pop-out door handles. With well-defined fenders and a unique separation of the rearmost side window at the C-pillar, the VF 9 presents an appealing and sophisticated appearance. The available colors for the VF 9 include Braminy White, Jet Black, Desat Silver, Crimson Red, Neptune Gray, VinFast Blue, and Deep Ocean, with the Sunset Orange shade being particularly striking.

Dimensions:

Boasting three spacious rows, the 2023 VinFast VF 9 offers generous dimensions. It measures 201.6 inches in length, making it over four inches longer than the Kia Telluride. The VF 9 has a wheelbase of 124 inches, a width of 78.7 inches, and a height of 67.8 inches. While the curb weight specifications are yet to be published, it is expected to be close to 5,500 pounds.

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Engine and Performance:

Both VF 9 trims come equipped with dual electric motors and all-wheel drive, delivering an impressive output of 402 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. The VF 9 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in approximately 7.2 seconds with the standard range battery and 6.3 seconds with the enhanced range battery. While this places it favorably among other conventional three-row SUVs, it is important to note that the VF 9 is not among the quickest electric SUVs available. The vehicle offers Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes, but further details regarding the underpinnings and driving experience are yet to be revealed.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life:

The 2023 VinFast VF 9 offers two battery options: 92 kWh and 123 kWh. The normal battery provides an estimated WLTP range of 272 miles for the Eco trim and 262 miles for the Plus trim. With the larger battery, the range increases to 369 miles for the Eco and 360 miles for the Plus. It’s important to consider that these range estimates may vary when assessed by the EPA. DC fast charging allows the standard battery to be charged from 10% to 70% in 26 minutes, while the larger battery requires approximately 35 minutes. VinFast has partnered with Electrify America to provide charging solutions, including complimentary charging for three years or a Level 2 Home Charger and installation credit for customers who own their homes. However, these options may have limited availability based on reservation dates.

Interior and Cargo:

The VinFast VF 9 boasts an interior that combines appealing design with advanced features. The layout minimizes physical controls, with a focus on a clean and modern aesthetic. The dashboard, seats, and door panels feature attractive contrast stitching. Interior color options include Granite Black, Saddle Brown, Cotton Beige (exclusive to the Plus trim), and Navy Blue (exclusive to the Plus trim). The VF 9 replaces the traditional gauge cluster with a standard 15.6-inch touchscreen display and a head-up display, providing essential information to the driver.

The cabin includes eight Type-A USB ports distributed throughout, with two located in the third row. Standard features encompass Wi-Fi connectivity, wireless charging, and a 13-speaker sound system. The base trim offers synthetic leather upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, while the Plus trim upgrades to leather upholstery and a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. Heated front seats are standard, with additional features such as heated second-row seats, ventilated seats in the first two rows, and a massaging function available on the Plus trim. Customers can opt for second-row captain’s chairs, reducing the seating capacity to six. Cargo space details are not currently available, but with its sizeable dimensions, the VF 9 is expected to provide ample room behind the third and second rows.

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Safety Features:

VinFast prioritizes safety, equipping both VF 9 trims with an array of driver-assist technologies and 11 airbags. Noteworthy features include lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, a 360-degree surround-view monitoring system, and a driver monitoring system. Additionally, traffic jam assist, auto lane change assist, remote parking, and a Level 2 highway assist system are available as optional upgrades.

Conclusion:

The 2023 VinFast VF 9 presents an enticing proposition in the three-row electric SUV segment. With its premium interior, affordable pricing (considering the battery subscription model), distinctive design, and ample features, the VF 9 aims to establish itself as a strong contender in the EV market. As more information becomes available, prospective buyers can make informed decisions about this practical and stylish SUV.