VinFast VF 8 Undergoes Surprising Transformation: Smaller, Slower, and More Affordable

VinFast has unveiled the second generation of its VF 8 electric SUV in Vietnam, marking a significant departure from its predecessor. The new model is notably smaller in size, features a reduced battery capacity, and offers less horsepower. This strategic shift aims to reposition the VF 8 in the market with a more accessible price point.

Key Takeaways

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What Changed in the New VF 8

The second-generation VF 8 trades size and performance for a lower entry price and a more mainstream market position.

Smaller footprint

The SUV is shorter overall and rides on a reduced wheelbase compared with the previous VF 8.

Reduced powertrain

It uses a smaller battery and a less powerful front-wheel-drive setup than the outgoing version.

Lower price

VinFast is positioning the new VF 8 more affordably than the model it replaces.

Design Evolution

The redesigned VF 8 boasts an aggressive front fascia with V-shaped LEDs and a gloss-black grille, complemented by slim side inlets. The rear receives a similar styling treatment. The side profile features a rising window line, 19-inch aero-friendly wheels, and toned rear shoulders, drawing comparisons to models like the Peugeot 2008.

Downsized Dimensions and Interior

VinFast has not only reshaped the VF 8 visually, but also reduced its size and simplified the cabin interface.

VF 8 Size and Cabin Changes

Category	New VF 8	Previous VF 8
Length	4,701 mm (185.1 inches)	49 mm longer
Wheelbase	2,840 mm (111.8 inches)	110 mm longer
Infotainment display	12.9-inch	15.6-inch
Instrument cluster	Digital cluster included	First time offered on VF 8
Standard equipment	Dual-zone climate control, eight-speaker stereo, ADAS suite	Not detailed here

Inside, the five-seat cabin sees a further reduction in physical buttons, with most functions controlled via a 12.9-inch infotainment display, down from the previous 15.6-inch unit. For the first time, a digital instrument cluster is included, paired with a two-spoke steering wheel. Standard features include dual-zone climate control, an eight-speaker stereo system, and a comprehensive ADAS suite.

Powertrain and Performance

The new VF 8 is built on a new architecture with a Software Defined Vehicle electrical layout. It is powered by a single front-mounted electric motor producing 228 hp (170 kW / 231 PS). This is fed by a 60.13 kWh battery, which VinFast claims offers a range of 500 km (311 miles) based on the NEDC cycle. This represents a notable decrease from the previous VF 8, which offered up to 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS) in its all-wheel-drive dual-motor configuration and featured a larger 87.7 kWh battery pack.

999 million VND

That new starting price undercuts the previous generation and highlights VinFast's push to make the VF 8 more accessible.

Pricing and Market Strategy

VinFast has begun accepting pre-orders for the new VF 8 in Vietnam, with deliveries expected to commence in late July. The electric SUV is priced starting at 999 million Vietnamese dong, which converts to approximately $37,900 USD at current exchange rates. This pricing is lower than the previous generation's starting price of VND 1.019 billion ($38,700 USD).

It remains uncertain whether the second-generation VF 8 will be exported outside of Vietnam. The first generation struggled to gain traction in the U.S. market, with fewer than 1,500 units sold last year. Despite this, VinFast is proceeding with its North Carolina factory, aiming for domestic EV production by 2028. The company reported a record 196,919 deliveries globally in 2025.