Vinfast VF6

The ‘V Face’ LED DRL signature on the nose makes the VF6 instantly recognisable as a Vinfast. The bumper houses the headlamps, a honeycomb grille and the ADAS radar.

At 4.3 metres long, 1.8 metres wide and 1.6 metres tall, with a 2.7-metre wheelbase, it sits squarely in midsize SUV territory. Ground clearance has been raised to 190mm for India, with 18-inch wheels and taller tyres that improve its road presence.

Muscular body panels and a high-set rear LED element complete the look. The 423-litre boot is practical, though its narrow loading area limits usability. There’s no frunk, but a tray beneath the boot floor can hold charging cables or make room for a spare tyre.

The minimalist cabin ditches a driver’s display for a clear view ahead and a 12.9-inch touchscreen at the centre. A heads-up display handles critical readouts.

The front seats are ventilated and comfortable, with power adjustment for the driver. The all-grey cabin feels plain, though build quality is solid. A large fixed glass roof brightens things up, and India-spec cars will get heat insulation. Rear seat space is acceptable if not generous, but cushioning is good, and the flat floor aids comfort.

With no driver’s display, the VF6 puts vital info in a corner of the touchscreen, with a heads-up display thankfully standard in India. The steering is compact with essential controls, while most functions — including climate and mirror adjustment — are in the touchscreen.

Features include dual-zone climate, ventilated seats, wireless phone connectivity, a panoramic roof and connected tech. Safety kit is generous: 7 airbags, a 360-degree camera, park assist, ADAS with Level 2 autonomy, with the target of a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating.

India gets the 59.6kWh Plus variant, good for a WLTP-rated 480km abroad. Local test numbers are awaited. CCS2 DC fast-charging is available, along with 7.2kW AC charging.

With 204hp and 310Nm going to the front wheels, it’s quick, with a claimed 0-100kph in 8.89sec. There’s some torque steer under hard throttle, but power delivery is strong. Eco and Normal modes feel relaxed, while cabin refinement is good.

Steering weight changes perceptibly with drive modes and feels reassuringly hefty. High-speed stability is impressive, and the firm suspension delivers a confident ride.

Local assembly and aggressive pricing have given the VF6 a solid positioning that spells excellent value for money compared to rivals. A few flaws remain — clunky controls and average rear seat space — but the India-specific updates, long features list and robust driving feel make it a serious contender.