The electric vehicle (EV) market is rapidly evolving, and VinFast, the Vietnamese automotive startup, is making bold moves in the global premium electric SUV segment. The VinFast VF9 stands out as the company’s flagship luxury electric SUV, designed to compete with top-tier electric models from established global manufacturers. With its upcoming launch slated for early 2026, the VF9 promises to offer an impressive combination of high-tech features, luxurious comfort, and powerful performance.
This detailed article explores the VinFast VF9’s launch timeline, pricing expectations, design ethos, interior and technology highlights, performance specifications, safety features, and how it stacks up against competitors.
VinFast VF9 Launch Timeline and Market Introduction
VinFast plans to officially launch the VF9 in the Indian market at the Bharat Global Mobility Expo in early 2026. The company has already begun groundwork for local manufacturing and assembly, signaling strong commitment to India as a high-growth market for premium EVs. Industry insiders expect the VF9’s ex-showroom price to hover around ₹65 to ₹70 lakh, positioning it competitively against established models in the same segment.
This debut will mark VinFast’s entry into the three-row, seven-seater luxury electric SUV category in India and other global markets. Earlier showcases at international auto shows and expos have generated considerable buzz, particularly due to the vehicle’s blend of futuristic design and cutting-edge technology.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
Designed by renowned Italian design house Pininfarina, the VinFast VF9 exudes a modern and elegant aesthetic with clear cues to luxury and sophistication. Its expansive dimensions affirm its flagship status:
- Length: Approximately 5118 mm
- Width: 2254 mm
- Height: 1696 mm
- Wheelbase: 3148 mm
The VF9 delivers a commanding road presence with angular, diamond-shaped LED projector headlamps framing the front face. And a distinctive ‘V’-shaped LED DRL signature, a VinFast design hallmark. The profile reveals muscular wheel arches fitted with 20-inch alloy wheels. The rear sports an extended LED light bar creating visual symmetry.
A panoramic fixed glass roof enhances sculptural elegance and floods the cabin with natural light, complementing the SUV’s luxurious stature.
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Luxurious and Technology-Rich Interior
The VF9 adopts a clean, minimalist interior layout with a focus on digital integration and passenger comfort. Key features include:
- Spacious Cabin: Offering both 6- and 7-seat configurations with premium materials and ergonomic seats. Higher trims provide captain seats with ventilation, heating, and massage functionality for rear passengers.
- Infotainment System: A large 15.6-inch central touchscreen controls the infotainment and vehicle systems, paired with an 8-inch rear entertainment screen for second-row passengers.
- Driver Assistance Displays: A heads-up display projects crucial driving data onto the windshield, reducing distractions and enhancing safety.
- Premium Audio: Up to 14-speaker sound system delivering immersive audio experiences.
- Connectivity: Wireless phone charging, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. And in-car streaming services, including a partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment for entertainment on the go.
- Ambient Lighting: Customizable dry and mood lighting further accentuate the cabin’s upscale feel.
Performance and Powertrain
The VinFast VF9 is powered by a robust dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) system generating:
- Power: 408 PS (approximately 402 hp)
- Torque: 620 Nm
This electric SUV houses a sizable 123 kWh battery pack, enabling an impressive driving range of up to 531 kilometers (330 miles) on a single charge based on EPA ratings. The VF9 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) briskly, in just around 6.3 seconds, showcasing its sporty character despite its large size.
Fast charging capabilities allow the battery to recharge from 10% to 70% in approximately 35 minutes using a DC fast charger, making long-distance travel more convenient.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is paramount in the VinFast VF9, reflected in its extensive passive and active safety features:
- Airbags: 11 airbags strategically placed for comprehensive occupant protection, including front, side, curtain, and knee airbags.
- ADAS Suite: Level 2 autonomous driver assistance technology features adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind-spot detection. And autonomous emergency braking, traffic jam assist, parking assistance with 360-degree cameras, and fully automated parking.
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Ensures optimal tire health and safety.
- Structural Integrity: The VF9 benefits from a high-strength chassis with crumple zones designed to absorb impact victims effectively during collisions.
Though crash test results are pending, the VF9’s safety equipment aligns with global premium SUV safety standards.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
The VF9 emphasizes passenger comfort through features such as:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control ensuring optimal temperature conditions in all rows
- Electrically adjustable driver and passenger seats with memory functions
- Heated and ventilated front seats enhancing comfort in diverse weather
- Large boot space accessible via power-operated tailgate accommodating substantial cargo
- Soft-touch materials and ambient lighting throughout, elevating the luxury experience
The well-thought-out cabin ensures a serene environment conducive to both long road trips and daily commuting.
Competitors and Market Positioning
The VinFast VF9 competes directly with:
- Kia EV9
- Hyundai Ioniq 9
- BMW iX
- Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
While all these models offer comparable range and technology, the VF9 aims to carve a niche through a more accessible price point, striking a balance between luxury, performance, and value. Its strong feature set at an expected price below some of its German rivals makes it an enticing proposition for buyers seeking premium electric SUVs.
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Pricing and Availability
The VF9 is anticipated to be priced between ₹65 lakh to ₹75 lakh (ex-showroom, India) depending on variants and optional features. The company has announced plans to introduce both the Eco trim, targeting longer range and efficiency. And the Plus trim, focusing on enhanced luxury and additional tech features.
In terms of availability, while VinFast plans a localised assembly in India to manage costs and improve service support, the official launch could be early 2026. The vehicle will initially target premium urban buyers looking for high-end electric SUVs with spacious interiors and cutting-edge technology.
Conclusion: A Landmark Model for VinFast and Indian EV Buyers
The VinFast VF9 sets a new benchmark in the Indian and global electric SUV landscape. Its combination of powerful electric drive, extensive luxury features, advanced driver assistance technologies, and competitive pricing positions it as a strong rival to entrenched players.
As electric mobility accelerates toward mainstream adoption, the VF9’s launch promises consumers a fresh alternative combining style, space, and sustainability without compromise. For those considering a premium seven-seater electric SUV, the VinFast VF9 offers compelling reasons to watch closely and potentially embrace the future of electric driving.