New VinFast VF 7 launches: Developed in Australia, the mid-size SUV is set to be brand’s most popular model

November 28, 2023November 27, 2023 John Mahoney 4088 Views

The all-electric 2024 VinFast VF7 has been launched in Vietnam paving the way for the mid-size SUV’s global rollout that could eventually include Australia.

Partly developed at the Vietnamese car-maker’s Melbourne-based R&D hub (until its 2021 closure), the new VinFast VF7 measures in at 4545mm long, 1890mm wide and stands 1636mm tall. With a 2840mm wheelbase, the Toyota RAV4-sized SUV delivers up to 190mm ground clearance and offers seating for five.

Just two versions will be offered initially, an entry-level Base model that costs 999 million dong ($A62,500) that comes with a 130kW/250Nm electric motor that drives the front wheels.

Within, standard equipment levels are high – there’s a large 12.9-inch infotainment screen, vegan-friendly faux leather seats, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, 360-degree camera view and an onboard virtual assistant.

For those who want all-wheel drive the flagship VF7 Plus is the answer as it comes equipped with dual-motors that produce 260kW and 500Nm of torque. combined with a bigger 75.3kWh battery the quickest VinFast SUV is said to be capable of covering up to 431km (WLTP verified) on a single charge.

Choose the VF7 Plus and you get a two-tone interior, larger wheels and a panoramic roof but the price is almost double at 1.99b dong ($A124,700).

Ahead of the launch Down Under, VinFast has announced that it is prioritising establishing itself in both Europe and North America, so there’s no timings yet on when it will land here.

The irony of that is the VF7 and other key VinFast models began life as prototypes testing on GM’s Lang Lang proving ground in Victoria with many developed by ex-Holden engineers.