There is no doubt that VinFast faces challenges in the US. It is a new brand name from a country that has never made cars for the US before, and it is an EV, which many US buyers still view with skepticism. MotorWeek, the first and longest-running automotive television review magazine, checked out the VF 8 for themselves. Ewing VinFast of Plano shares their thoughts.
MotorWeek briefly discussed the history of VinFast’s entry into the United States, including the plans for the North Carolina plant. They plan to build both cars and batteries, but it has been delayed due to market headwinds for EVs.
To set the stage, MotorWeek noted that the length of the VF 8 is about midway between the shorter Volkswagen ID.4 and the longer Honda Prologue. They tested the VF 8 Plus, the more powerful of the two VF 8 trims, with 402 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. As with all EVs, all that torque is available the instant the motor starts turning. They point out the 235-mile range of the Plus model and the 235-mile range of the Eco, and mention that VinFast states a 10-70% charge rate of 31 minutes.
They highlight the VF 8’s “unmistakable Italian flair” as a result of its Pininfarina-designed exterior. While noting that its minimalist dashboard features a large 15-inch center screen for controls, they mention that the absence of a traditional gauge cluster is offset by the bright color head-up display and numerous steering wheel controls, which reduce the need to reach for the screen for basic functions.
Cargo space, a key factor for crossovers, benefits from rear seats that fold flat, and there’s frunk space where the engine isn’t. Notable for a new manufacturer, MotorWeek found no obvious fit and finish issues.
On the road, they found that the VF 8 delivers smooth and quiet power, and the regenerative braking is well-adjusted with a very natural feel. Sport mode definitely provides a quicker throttle response. In terms of ride and handling, there are no major flaws. However, car reviewers often prefer a sportier feel than the VF 8 offers, although its comfort-focused tuning should suit most people.
Finally, they mention the warranty, which covers 10 years or 125,000 miles for bumper-to-bumper. Such extensive warranties helped build trust in Korean vehicles among a skeptical US public, and we’ve all seen how Hyundai and Kia have grown since then. Overall, MotorWeek found the VF 8 to be an attractive vehicle with good performance and a smooth ride, along with a great warranty. If you want to check out the new player in town, test drive the VF 8 at Ewing VinFast in Plano.