VinFast VF 8 Plus

Overview

The VinFast VF 8 Plus is a striking electric SUV from Vietnam, aiming to shake up the mid-size segment. This 'Plus' trim packs a proper punch with its dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup and a cabin brimming with tech. It was produced between 2023 and 2024, primarily targeting markets like the USA. While official new European pricing was limited due to its market focus and now discontinued status, its spec sheet promised a compelling package for adventurous EV buyers looking for something a bit different from the mainstream crowd.

What's New for 2024?

Given the VinFast VF 8 Plus saw its production run conclude in 2024, the 'new for 2024' list is rather short and sweet. Think of it as the final iteration of this particular spec, likely benefiting from any over-the-air software tweaks and minor refinements rolled out during its brief production life. Major model year updates weren't really on the cards as VinFast transitioned its lineup. So, you're essentially getting the most mature version of this early VF 8 Plus offering before it bowed out of production.

Design & Exterior

Penned with Italian flair, the VF 8 Plus boasts a sleek, modern SUV silhouette that certainly turns heads. Its distinctive V-shaped LED light signatures, front and rear, give it a unique identity on the road. The Plus trim often sported stylish alloy wheels and subtle accents, adding a touch of class. Dimension-wise, it’s a substantial machine, measuring 4750 mm in length, 1934 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and standing 1667 mm tall, giving it a confident stance for any adventure.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside the VF 8 Plus, you're greeted by a minimalist cabin dominated by a massive central touchscreen, handling almost all vehicle functions – very tech-forward! Passenger space is generous for its five seats, with a focus on comfort. For your luggage, there's a practical 376-litre boot, expanding to a chunky 1373 litres with the rear seats folded. And don't forget the handy 77-litre frunk under the bonnet for stashing those charging cables or smaller bits. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are typically part of the package.

Performance & Driving Experience

The VF 8 Plus isn't shy about getting a move on! With its dual PMSM motors (front and rear) delivering a hefty 300 kW and 620 Nm of torque to all four wheels, it sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in a blistering 5.5 seconds. That’s proper hot-hatch-worrying pace from an SUV, topping out at 200 km/h! The all-wheel-drive system ensures plenty of grip, and the instant shove from the electric motors makes for an engaging experience. Expect multiple regenerative braking modes to help you claw back some energy efficiently.

Range, Battery & Charging

Juice for the VF 8 Plus comes from an 82 kWh (usable) battery pack. Green Cars Compare calculates a real-world range of around 316 km, with an efficiency of about 3.85 km/kWh. For top-ups, the standard 11 kW on-board AC charger will replenish the battery overnight. Hooked up to a DC fast charger via its European-standard CCS Type 2 port, it can guzzle electrons at up to 150 kW on its 400V architecture, meaning significant range can be added pretty swiftly. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability has also been a feature.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety-wise, the VinFast VF 8 scored a respectable 4 stars in Euro NCAP tests, complementing its 5-star rating from NHTSA. The Plus trim usually came loaded with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. You'd typically find features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automated emergency braking as standard, reflecting VinFast's ambition to pack its cars with modern safety tech, making it a reassuring choice for families during its time on the market.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

VinFast aimed to impress with its generous warranty packages, and the VF 8 Plus was typically covered by an extensive basic vehicle warranty, often around 10 years or 200,000 km. The crucial battery warranty usually matched this duration, guaranteeing a high percentage of its original capacity for peace of mind. While specific complimentary maintenance varied by market, these long warranty periods were designed to build confidence in the brand. Long-term reliability insights are still developing for this discontinued model.