New VinFast VF 5 Spied In Bengaluru – Small Electric SUV

VinFast appears ready to enter India’s growing small electric SUV segment with the new VF 5. The electric SUV has started road testing in Bengaluru, giving a first look at its new design. The model could compete with electric SUVs such as the Tata Punch EV, Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. In addition, the VF 5 could help VinFast target a larger customer base in India. The company also aims to reach global production of 1 million vehicles per year by 2030.

New VinFast VF 5 Spied In Bengaluru

The test vehicle seen in Bengaluru appears to be the second-generation VF 5. However, VinFast has not launched this new version in any market yet. The first-generation VF 5 is already sold in several countries.

The new model gets major changes compared with the current version. Perhaps the biggest change comes from its overall design. The new VF 5 now looks more like a proper SUV rather than a raised hatchback.

At the front, the test model features a more upright design and a flatter bonnet. It also appears to get a closed-off grille, lower-mounted headlamps and full-width LED daytime running lights. In addition, the wide bumper has horizontal slats that add to its SUV-like look.

New VF 5 Gets A Rugged Design

The side profile also gets sharper lines. However, VinFast has retained some familiar design elements, including circular wheel arches, black body cladding and regular door handles.

The test vehicle also uses steel wheels, which suggests that VinFast may have been testing a lower-spec version. At the rear, the SUV gets a sloping windscreen, roof spoiler and a chunky bumper. Moreover, the tail lamps appear to feature a connected design.

The current global VF 5 measures 3,967 mm in length, 1,723 mm in width and 1,579 mm in height. It has a 2,514 mm wheelbase. The model also offers several safety features, including ADAS.

VinFast VF 5 Interior And Features

Earlier spy shots had already revealed changes inside the cabin. The new VF 5 appears to get a more modern dashboard with a large free-standing touchscreen infotainment system.

In addition, the cabin could feature a new dashboard layout, a sporty two-spoke steering wheel and an updated centre console. The new model could also offer features such as a sunroof, ventilated seats, TFT instrument cluster and rear AC vents.

However, VinFast has not confirmed the final feature list for the Indian-spec model yet.

VinFast VF 5 Battery And Performance

The company has also not confirmed whether the new VF 5 will receive an updated powertrain. The current global model comes with 29.6 kWh and 37.23 kWh battery options.

The larger battery version uses a single front-mounted electric motor that produces 134 hp and 135 Nm. It offers a claimed range of 326.4 km under the NEDC cycle.

Furthermore, the VF 5 can charge from 10% to 70% in around 33 minutes using a fast charger.

VinFast VF 5 India Launch

VinFast has not announced the official India launch date or price of the new VF 5. However, if the company achieves a high level of local production, the electric SUV could get a competitive price.

The VF 5 could therefore become an important model for VinFast in India. With growing demand for small electric SUVs, the new model could give buyers another option in this segment.