In a market dominated by compact hatchbacks and budget-friendly sedans, VinFast is making a daring move with the VF3—a three-door electric SUV that’s as quirky as it is promising. Set to launch in India in 2026, the VF3 is a micro-SUV designed for the urban jungle, offering a fresh take on electric mobility for city dwellers, young professionals, and anyone looking to stand out in traffic. With its boxy silhouette, minimalist interior, and affordable price tag, the VF3 could be the disruptor that redefines what entry-level EVs can be.
🚗 Compact Yet Commanding: VF3’s Design Philosophy
At first glance, the VinFast VF3 doesn’t look like your typical city car. Measuring just 3,190 mm in length, 1,679 mm in width, and 1,622 mm in height, it’s shorter than most hatchbacks but taller and more rugged—thanks to its SUV-inspired stance and 191 mm ground clearance. The three-door layout (one on each side and one at the rear) gives it a retro charm, reminiscent of classic off-roaders, while the chunky wheel arches and black body cladding add a dose of toughness.
The front fascia is clean and squared-off, featuring a closed grille with the VinFast logo in chrome, flanked by halogen headlamps. The rear continues the theme with halogen tail-lights and a chrome bar that connects both ends. Riding on 16-inch alloy wheels, the VF3 looks ready to tackle potholes, speed bumps, and tight parking spots with equal ease.
⚡ Electric Power Meets Urban Practicality
Under the hood—or rather, under the floor—the VF3 packs an 18.64 kWh battery paired with a rear-mounted electric motor producing 41 PS and 110 Nm of torque. While these numbers may not sound groundbreaking, they’re more than adequate for city driving. The VF3 offers a claimed range of up to 215 km on a single charge, which should comfortably cover daily commutes, school runs, and weekend errands.
Charging is refreshingly quick: the VF3 supports fast charging and can go from 10% to 70% in just 36 minutes. For a car aimed at urban users, this is a crucial feature—minimizing downtime and maximizing convenience.
🛋️ Inside the VF3: Minimalism with a Modern Twist
Step inside the VF3 and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s simple, functional, and surprisingly tech-savvy. The dashboard is dominated by a 10-inch touchscreen that doubles as the infotainment system and driver display. There’s no traditional instrument cluster; instead, all vital information is presented on the central screen, keeping the layout clean and uncluttered.
The two-spoke steering wheel adds a touch of flair, while manual air-conditioning, power windows, and connected car tech round out the feature list. The second-row seats can be fully folded to expand cargo space, though accessing them requires folding down the co-driver’s seat—a design quirk that may challenge older passengers but adds to the car’s compact charm.
Safety-wise, the VF3 includes dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera. It’s not a fortress, but it’s well-equipped for its segment and purpose.
💸 Affordability Meets Aspirations
VinFast is positioning the VF3 as one of the most affordable electric cars in India, with an expected price range of ₹7.5 to ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom). That puts it squarely in competition with the MG Comet EV, Tata Tiago EV, and upcoming models from Renault and Nissan. But unlike its rivals, the VF3 offers a unique blend of SUV styling, three-door novelty, and Vietnamese design sensibility.
The brand is also exploring battery subscription plans, which could further reduce upfront costs and make EV ownership more accessible to first-time buyers. For young professionals, students, and small families, the VF3 could be the perfect entry point into the world of electric mobility.
🌍 Designed for the City, Built for the Future
VinFast’s decision to launch the VF3 in India is part of a broader strategy to expand its global footprint. With production set to begin at its Thoothukudi plant in Tamil Nadu, the company is betting big on India’s growing appetite for electric vehicles. The VF3’s compact dimensions, efficient powertrain, and bold design make it ideally suited for Indian cities, where space is limited and style matters.
Moreover, the VF3’s quirky appeal could help it carve out a niche among younger buyers who value individuality and sustainability. It’s not just a car—it’s a statement.
🛣️ The Road Ahead
As VinFast prepares to roll out the VF6 and VF7 SUVs, the VF3 stands out as a bold experiment in urban mobility. It’s not trying to be everything to everyone. Instead, it’s laser-focused on delivering a fun, functional, and affordable EV experience for city dwellers.
