First Drive: 2025 Vinfast VF8 in the UAE

VinFast is a relative newcomer to the global automotive scene from Vietnam. Established in 2017, the brand has quickly positioned itself as a key player in the electric vehicle EV segment. Collaborations with renowned design firms like Pininfarina and partnerships for cutting-edge battery and drivetrain technology have bolstered its credibility. Now expanding into international markets, VinFast seeks to establish itself as a competitive alternative in the growing EV landscape. Most recently, they entered the UAE, and we got to try the Vinfast VF8.

VinFast VF8 trims

The VF8 has two variants on offer: Eco and Plus

VinFast VF8 Eco

The Eco model is the entry-level option. It has a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers a robust 348 horsepower. The Eco trim boasts a range of up to 471 km on a full charge.

Inside, the Eco trim includes a large 15.6-inch central touchscreen for infotainment, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a comprehensive suite of safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The materials are focused on durability, and synthetic leather and many soft-touch surfaces give the cabin a premium feel.

VinFast VF8 Plus

The Plus variant is available for those seeking additional performance and a few more options. Its dual-motor setup produces 402 horsepower, enhancing acceleration. However, due to the increased power output, the range slightly decreases to around 457 km.

The interior of the Plus trim features premium touches, such as upgraded leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. 

Exterior design

The VinFast VF 8 is a compact electric SUV. Its exterior is styled by the renowned design house Pininfarina. The front end features a sleek, grille-less design with a horizontal LED light bar that connects the sharp LED headlights.

The side profile has slightly flared arches that accommodate the alloy wheels, which, depending on the variant, are 19 to 20 inches in size. The sloping roofline enhances its aerodynamic efficiency without compromising interior headroom.

At the rear, the VF8 has a connected LED taillight strip, echoing the design language of the front. Subtle contours and a rear spoiler add some sportiness to the look. 

Interior Design

The VinFast VF8 interior reflects a modern, minimalist design ethos, focusing on functionality and technology. At the cabin’s centre is a 15.6-inch touchscreen display that consolidates navigation, climate, and entertainment controls.

This streamlined approach eliminates the need for a traditional instrument cluster. Key driving information is displayed on the touchscreen or through the heads-up display.

The cabin materials include soft-touch plastics, metallic accents, and leather upholstery. 

The Plus has a panoramic sunroof, which is standard. Features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad ensure that passengers stay connected and entertained.

The rear legroom is particularly impressive in the VF8. There is, however, a hump in the middle of the rear seat floor. This is because the VF8 was initially designed to be a petrol-powered car.

Ride Quality and Comfort

The VF8 drives well on the highway, soaking in minor imperfections on the road. The grip is excellent during turns. The suspension is a bit on the stiffer side, a bit like the earlier models of the Tesla Model Y. 

Acceleration is very good. VinFast claims the Eco trim can hit 0 to 100 kph in 5.9 seconds, and the Pro trim does it in 5.5 seconds.

VinFast VF8 verdict

According to the automotive world, VinFast has been around for a short time. VinGroup is a massive conglomerate, so they hired top people, but building a car from scratch is still an achievement. They didn’t stop there; they also decided to manufacture it on home soil. After some initial hiccups in the US market, the VinFast VF8 looks to have significantly improved the car in just a year. 

Their main competition for the VF8 is the Tesla Model Y. The Vinfast VF8’s lower starting price of AED 175,000 and a 10-year warranty on both the car and the battery certainly give customers another option when looking for an EV in the compact SUV category.

Keep track of the latest Vinfast VF8 prices and specs in the buyer guide.