Why the VinFast VF8 Is an All Electric SUV That Fails to Impress and What to Get Instead
VinFast, one of the hottest topics in the electric vehicle world, is currently delivering its first vehicle to American buyers. However, things aren’t going as the automaker planned, as early reviews have been scathing. So far, it seems the 2023 VinFast VF8 is a bit of a disaster regarding the overall quality and execution of some of its defining features. Here’s why the VinFast VF8 has so far failed to impress and what all-electric SUV to consider instead.
What’s wrong with this all electric SUV
So far, the 2023 VinFast VF8 all electric SUV isn’t particularly well-liked by many automotive critics who have driven it. The major complaint against the SUV is that it has many quality and build issues. One of the biggest is that so far, it seems the turn signals don’t always work. This is a significant safety concern, especially for a car being delivered to buyers. There is also a widespread problem with the navigation system not being functional.
Additionally, according to MotorTrend, many of the test vehicles have issues with the AC system. This is especially problematic for a brand new vehicle. Apparently, the impacted vehicles only blow cold air if set below 80. The systems only blow hot air when set above 80. The VinFast driver assistance features are also finicky at best.
It’s not a smooth ride
Another issue with the VinFast all electric SUV is that it has less than stellar suspension. The shocks are good at absorbing small bumps in the road, but even obstacles only a little bigger cause the vehicle to jump and jerk. This creates a reasonably uncomfortable ride for drivers and passengers. Additionally, the seats don’t provide enough support to handle the rough rides this car reportedly provides.
Overall, most critics feel the VinFast VF8 isn’t an all electric SUV that’s ready for the world to drive. Sure, the automaker can fix some issues with over-the-air updates, but that won’t work for all the vehicle’s problems. Unless profound changes can be made at such short notice, it may be best to go with a more established all electric SUV.
The 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 is a better all electric SUV
Of course, there is always the chance things could somehow turn around for the all electric VinFast SUV. However, it seems unlikely this late in the game. So, people could consider the 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 5 instead of the VinFast VF8. The Hyundai all electric SUV has a predicted reliability score of 73 from J.D Power, which means it’s about average in this category. Though not the best, it’s better than a brand new car that fails in multiple regards.
Regarding performance, both all electric SUVs come with different drive trains. The vehicles are most comparable on the SEL trim of the Hyundai and the Eco version of the VF8. The Hyundai SUV has a maximum output of 320 hp for the trim, while the plus version of the VinFast option produces 300 hp. However, the VinFast SUV happens to be faster.
Luckily, the Hyundai has better range as it averages 220 miles with the Standard Range version. The VinFast VF8 all electric SUV gets an average of 207 miles on a charge for the Eco trim and 191 for the Plus version.
