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VinFast VF3: A Compact Electric SUV for Indian Cities

The VinFast VF3, an electric micro SUV, debuted at the Auto Expo 2025. While India has no confirmed launch date, its compact design and practicality could make it an intriguing option for urban commuters.

Design and Dimensions
The VF3's dimensions are notably compact, resembling the proportions of the iconic Tata Nano. The front features a wide VF logo, simple headlights,s and a blacked-out bumper for contrast. In profile, the car has rugged black wheel arches, and the door handles, ORVMs, and pillars are also black .Itr is designed with just two doors for easier ingress and egress.

The VF3 measures 3,190 mm in length, 1,679 mm in width, and 1,622 mm in height. Its wheelbase is 2,075 mm. It is equipped with 16-inch wheels and offers a ground clearance of 191 mm, which is beneficial for urban roads.

At the rear, the flat design continues, with the VinFast logo running across the width of the tailgate. The tail lights feature vertical elements, and the blacked-out lower bumper treatment adds to its rugged appearance.

Interior and Features
Inside, the VF3 is designed to be simple and functional. The standout feature is an extensive 10-inch infotainment system that serves both as the main display and the driver's display. The dashboard is neatly arranged with horizontal AC vents above the AC controls. There are no armrests, and the lower centre console allows passengers to access the rear seats between the front seats.

The rear seats are designed to accommodate two passengers, although tall or bulky individuals may find them less comfortable. The car has seatbelts for all four passengers, and when the rear seats are folded, the boot space increases to 285 litres.

Powertrain and Performance
The VF3 is powered by an 18.64 kWh battery pack and an electric motor that delivers 43.5 bhp and 110 Nm. The electric motor drives the rear wheels and offers a range of 215 km on a single charge. Additionally, the VF3 supports fast charging, reaching 70% from 10% in just 36 minutes.

Price and Rivals
Though not yet confirmed, the VF3 is expected to be priced at around INR 10 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. It has no direct competitors in the Indian market, making it a potential standout in the compact electric car segment.

With its compact size, decent range, and urban-friendly design, the VF3 could be a practical choice for Indian cities, where narrow lanes and limited parking spaces are common challenges.

TopGear Magazine January 2025