2024 VinFast VF 9: A Comprehensive Look at Vietnam's Three-Row Electric SUV

The electric vehicle landscape welcomes a bold new entrant from Southeast Asia as Vietnamese automaker VinFast makes its North American debut with the 2024 VF 9. This seven-seat electric SUV represents both an ambitious technological statement and a practical family vehicle, challenging established players in the rapidly growing three-row EV segment. At MotorVero, we examined the VF 9 up close to determine whether this newcomer has what it takes to compete with segment leaders like the award-winning Kia EV9.

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VinFast's American Expansion: Dealer Network and Availability

VinFast is methodically building its U.S. presence with approximately 35 dealerships currently operational and more planned across key markets. Unlike direct-to-consumer EV startups, VinFast is adopting a traditional dealership model, allowing potential buyers to experience their vehicles firsthand before purchase. The company brought several models to recent auto shows, including the Chicago Auto Show, where we had the opportunity to thoroughly inspect the VF 9.

Pricing Structure and Value Proposition

The 2024 VinFast VF 9 enters the market with a starting MSRP of approximately $70,000 for the base Eco trim (excluding destination charges). While this positions it as a premium offering, several financial considerations potential buyers should note:

VinFast sweetens the deal with an unconventional incentive: a complimentary VF DrgnFly eBike (valued at $2,600) with every VF 9 purchase or lease. This unique perk adds tangible value for urban families or outdoor enthusiasts.

Powertrain and Range Specifications

The VF 9's performance credentials appear impressive on paper:

• Dual Motor AWD Standard: 402 horsepower combined output
• Battery Capacity: 125 kWh usable energy (one of the largest in class)
• EPA-Estimated Range: 330 miles (Eco trim)
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However, these numbers require context. The VF 9 achieves its range through brute battery force rather than exceptional efficiency. For comparison, the Kia EV9 Long Range AWD manages 280 miles from a 95 kWh battery, demonstrating superior energy management.

Exterior Dimensions and Design Philosophy

The VF 9 presents a distinctive silhouette that blends wagon-like proportions with SUV practicality:

The design incorporates thoughtful aerodynamic elements, including a unique grille-to-hood airflow passage and premium Continental tires. The overall aesthetic shares some conceptual DNA with the Lucid Gravity, emphasizing sleekness over traditional SUV boxiness.

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Interior Space and Family Practicality

Our hands-on evaluation revealed both strengths and compromises in the VF 9's cabin:

A notable drawback involves the fixed center console between captain's chairs, which eliminates one of that configuration's primary advantages: easy third-row access when child seats are installed in the second row.

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Child Safety Considerations

Family buyers should note these child seat limitations:

• Third row only features top tether anchors (no lower LATCH connectors)
• EV9 offers more flexible child seat positioning options
• Fixed console complicates rear seat access with installed car seats

Technology Interface and Controls

VinFast adopts a hybrid approach to vehicle controls that blends Tesla-like minimalism with conventional automotive interfaces:

• 15.6-inch Central Touchscreen: Handles climate, steering wheel adjustment, and mirror controls
• Physical Controls Retained: Gear selector, turn signals, and wiper stalks
• Instrumentation: No traditional gauge cluster (relies on head-up display)

This compromise attempts to satisfy both tech-forward buyers and those wary of full touchscreen dependence. The execution appears more polished than some early EV adopters but may still present a learning curve for traditional SUV buyers.

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Build Quality and Material Selection

The VF 9's interior positioning falls between mainstream and luxury:

• Materials quality exceeds typical mass-market offerings
• Fit and finish approaches but doesn't match luxury segment standards
• Comparable to most $70,000 EVs except class leaders like Genesis Electrified GV70

Warranty Protection and Ownership Experience

VinFast addresses brand unfamiliarity with robust warranty coverage:

This industry-leading warranty helps mitigate concerns about purchasing from a new automaker, though long-term reliability remains unproven.

Competitive Landscape: How the VF 9 Stacks Up

The three-row electric SUV segment remains relatively sparse, giving the VF 9 opportunity despite its newcomer status:

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Final Assessment: Potential With Reservations

Our inspection confirms the VinFast VF 9 as a fully realized production vehicle rather than a concept or prototype. The SUV demonstrates legitimate engineering capability and thoughtful design choices, though with some clear compromises. Key takeaways:

Until we conduct comprehensive performance testing—evaluating real-world range, charging speed, handling, and family utility—we recommend cautious optimism about the VF 9. It represents an intriguing alternative in the three-row EV space, particularly for buyers seeking something different from the usual suspects, but comes with the inherent risks of any first-generation vehicle from a new automaker.

VinFast's ambitious warranty and current lease deals help offset some of that risk, making the VF 9 worth consideration for EV shoppers prioritizing maximum range and distinctive design in their three-row electric SUV.

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