The VinFast VF5 facelift version has now been revealed through an Indian design patent, providing a sneak peek into the new version of the electric SUV that may soon debut in the growing affordable electric vehicle market in India. The facelifted version of the car boasts slim headlights, a refreshed bonnet, new LED tail-lamps, and new bumpers.
While no official information about the Indian launch has been provided by VinFast yet, it seems likely that the automaker has considered launching the new VF5 in India.
VinFast VF5 Facelift: Key Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Compact electric SUV |
| Design patent | Filed in India |
| Expected positioning | Below VinFast VF6 |
| Wheels | 16-inch expected |
| Powertrain | Fully electric |
| India battery options | Not confirmed |
| Expected price | Not officially announced |
| India launch date | Unconfirmed |
Exterior Design: What Has Changed?
The design update of the VinFast VF5 comes with slimmer headlamps that have been relocated at a lower position in the front end, along with a larger bonnet and restyled bumpers. Additionally, there is a new design for the black trim below the headlamps for a sleeker look.
From the backside, the design sees chunky LED tail-lamps that take the place of the conventional lighting arrangement in the previous version. The reverse lights and indicators come as part of the rear lights, and the updated wheel design gives a new look to the side profile.
Interior and Tech Changes
Imported test vehicles feature a steeper dashboard, a larger standalone screen, and a revamped two-spoke steering wheel. There is a rotary drive mode selector and two cup holders on the center console, along with what appears to be leatherette upholstery in place of the fabric seats.
Curiously, the new VF5 does not appear to have a separate driver display screen, with the central display screen acting as the instrument cluster. It should be noted that the features list for India is still unknown.
Battery, Range and Performance
The international variants of the present-day VF5 come with different batteries and motors. For example, some models get 29.6kWh batteries along with 90hp motors and have an estimated NEDC range of 268km, whereas others come with 37.23kWh batteries and have 136hp motors and a range of 326km.
This data is applicable for international specs only since the India-specific specs of the battery, range, charging speed and motor power remain unknown.
India Spotlight: VF5 Capable Of Beating Inexpensive Electric SUVs?
VinFast VF5 facelift may aim at buyers looking at the Tata Punch EV, Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. The VF5 facelift’s success may depend upon affordability, practical range, charging facilities, and ability to form an after-sales support network within India.
The filing of design patents secures the design of the vehicle and does not imply the production or launch of the model. Hence Indian customers need to wait for a definite announcement before taking the facelift model as an official one.
Acceleration: An Honest Opinion
The VF5 is not built for racing but for cheap, efficient electric urban transport. The electric engine of the VF5 is supposed to offer quick acceleration at low speeds, which would help on city roads. However, the specifications of the overseas version differ from the original one, and it remains unknown what the final statistics for acceleration of the facelifted model will be. Track-oriented suspension, braking system and sports version of the car have not been mentioned yet.
Conclusion
The VinFast VF5 face-lift model features new bodywork and an updated interior design that may improve the car’s position in the subcompact electric SUV category.
In India, the car will have to confirm its battery pack capacity, pricing policy, charging system efficiency, and launch date to become a rival for the existing electric models.
FAQs
Is there any VinFast VF5 facelift in India?
There has been an Indian design patent filing, however, VinFast hasn’t provided any dates for the launch yet.
What kind of updates does the VF5 facelift get?
It comes with updated headlamps, a higher bonnet, new bumpers, connected LED taillights and updated dashboard.
What is the VinFast VF5’s range?
Indian versions promise between 268km and 326km in the NEDC cycle based on the battery configuration. Indian specifications are not available.
What might be the price of VinFast VF5 facelift in India?
There hasn’t been any official confirmation of price. It all depends on the battery and equipment level.