VinFast VF 8 Eco

Overview

Hailing from Vietnam, the VinFast VF 8 Eco is an electric SUV that aimed to make a splash on the global stage. The Eco trim was pitched as the more accessible version within the VF 8 lineup, balancing features with efficiency. Key highlights include its standard all-wheel-drive system and a decent-sized battery. Official European pricing for new or used models isn't specified as available, aligning with its discontinued status and primary market focus. It represented VinFast's ambitious entry into the competitive EV segment.

What's New for 2024?

The 2024 VinFast VF 8 Eco represents the final model year for this specific configuration, as its production concluded in 2024 after starting in 2023. While not a "new generation," models from this year would incorporate any running changes and software updates VinFast implemented during its short production. These could include refinements to the infotainment system and potentially tweaks to suspension tuning based on early feedback. Think of it as the most mature version of this particular, now-discontinued, electric SUV offering from the Vietnamese automaker.

Design & Exterior

The VinFast VF 8 Eco cuts a sharp figure, thanks to Pininfarina's design magic, with those signature V-shaped LED daytime running lights making it instantly recognisable. It’s a sleek-looking SUV, measuring 4750 mm long, 1934 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and 1667 mm tall, all riding on a 2950 mm wheelbase. The Eco trim keeps things smart and functional, likely sporting alloy wheels designed for efficiency. It's a confident design intended for a global audience, even if its primary market focus and production run were limited.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside the VF 8 Eco, you're greeted by a minimalist cabin dominated by a large central touchscreen that handles most vehicle functions. Material quality generally aims for a contemporary feel. As a five-seater, it offers decent passenger space. For your luggage, there's 376 litres of boot space, which expands to a useful 1373 litres when you fold the rear seats flat. A bonus is the 77-litre 'frunk' under the bonnet for extra bits and bobs or charging cables. Expect smartphone integration for connectivity.

Performance & Driving Experience

The VF 8 Eco isn't shy on poke, with its dual Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (one front, one rear) delivering a combined 260 kW and a healthy 500 Nm of torque to its all-wheel-drive system. This setup propels it from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 6.5 seconds, with a top speed of 200 km/h. While initial reviews noted some areas for refinement in ride and handling, the AWD offers good grip. Regenerative braking helps to recapture energy, contributing to its overall efficiency.

Range, Battery & Charging

The VF 8 Eco is equipped with an 82 kWh usable battery pack (86 kWh nominal). Green Cars Compare calculates a real-world range of around 337 km, with an efficiency of 4.11 km/kWh. For AC charging, it features a standard 11 kW on-board charger using a CCS Type 2 port, meaning a full charge from empty would take roughly 7.5 hours. When it comes to DC fast charging, the VF 8 Eco can accept up to 150 kW, thanks to its 400V architecture, allowing for swift top-ups on longer journeys.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

The VinFast VF 8 achieved a 4-star rating from Euro NCAP and a 5-star rating from NHTSA, indicating a good level of safety. The Eco trim is expected to come equipped with a suite of driver-assistance systems. Typically, this would include features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and autonomous emergency braking. VinFast has generally aimed to provide a comprehensive set of modern safety technologies as standard across its model range to enhance driver confidence and passenger protection.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

VinFast typically offers robust warranty packages to build customer confidence. For the VF 8, this often included a comprehensive vehicle warranty, potentially extending up to 10 years or 200,000 km in some markets. The high-voltage battery usually received similar coverage, often with a guarantee against excessive degradation (e.g., to remain above 70% capacity) during the warranty period. Specific details on complimentary maintenance would vary by region, but the strong warranty underpinnings were a key selling point for the brand as it established itself globally.