This $53,000 EV From Vietnam Is Shocking America – 2025 VinFast VF8 Is Back !

Vietnam isn’t the first place you think of when it comes to car brands, especially in the electric vehicle space. But that’s exactly what makes the 2025 VinFast VF8 so interesting. Built by VinFast, an offshoot of Vietnam’s massive Vingroup conglomerate, this all-electric crossover marks the brand’s first serious attempt to crack the U.S. automotive market. The VF8 has already faced sharp criticism for its earlier models, but has it improved enough in its latest version to deserve a second look?

Engine, Power & Driving Performance

VinFast offers two variants of the VF8: the Eco and the Plus. The base Eco model puts out 349 horsepower, while the Plus steps it up to 402 horsepower. Both versions come with dual-motor all-wheel drive as standard, which is a strong feature considering the segment.

The VF8 Plus claims a 0–60 mph time of just 5 seconds, which puts it in the ballpark with many mainstream EV rivals. The driving experience has also reportedly improved for 2025, thanks to revisions made after harsh feedback from early reviewers. Handling is still not as sharp as a Tesla Model Y, but it’s much more composed and predictable than before.

Electric Range & Charging

When the VF8 first launched, its electric range was heavily criticized. The earlier model struggled with just 200 miles of range, even under ideal conditions. Thankfully, the updated 2025 model now offers up to 245 miles in the Eco trim and 265 miles in the Plus.

While still short of the Tesla Model Y’s 310-mile range in Long Range trim, this improvement shows VinFast is listening. Charging capabilities haven’t been fully disclosed in terms of real-world speeds, but standard Level 2 and DC fast-charging are supported.

Exterior Design, Designed by Legends, But…

Here’s something unexpected: the VF8 was designed by Pininfarina, the same legendary Italian firm responsible for styling numerous Ferraris. You’d expect something exotic, right?

Unfortunately, the VF8’s design is… well, bland. It’s not ugly, but it lacks the boldness or character that you’d hope for. The front and rear both feature light bars that form a “V” shape, paying tribute to VinFast’s branding, but aside from that, it’s an anonymous crossover design that blends in with everything else on the road.

Interior Quality & Comfort

Step inside the VF8 and things improve. The cabin is surprisingly upscale, especially in the Plus trim. Brown leather upholstery with contrast stitching gives it a premium feel, and the materials are generally soft-touch and well-finished.

The seats are supportive, and overall ergonomics are solid. Unlike the 2023 version, which was plagued by panel gaps and quality control issues, the 2025 model feels better built. However, the design remains generic — functional, but forgettable.

There’s also no traditional instrument cluster. Like a Tesla, all information is displayed on the central screen, which may not appeal to everyone.

Infotainment System & Tech

Here’s where VinFast has really stepped up. The central touchscreen is large, responsive, and easy to use. It controls nearly everything — from climate to navigation — and while that may sound overwhelming, the system is actually quite intuitive.

Criticism of the software in earlier models was widespread, but the 2025 update seems to have resolved most of those issues. The UI feels fast, polished, and smartphone-like, with almost no input lag.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support are expected to be available, though exact features vary depending on region.

Quirks & Frustrations

Despite improvements, the VF8 still has some odd quirks. For example, the driver’s door has a button to unlock, but the rear and passenger doors don’t. That means unless you manually unlock them with the key fob, your passengers might be left tugging on locked doors.

Additionally, keyless entry isn’t seamless. You have to push a button to unlock instead of just grabbing the handle, which feels outdated compared to competitors.

Pricing & Value for Money

Here’s where things get tricky. The VF8 Eco starts at around $47,000, while the Plus trim goes up to about $53,000. Compare that to the Tesla Model Y, which starts at $45,000 for the base version and offers more range, faster acceleration, and a more refined user experience.

From a value standpoint, the VF8 struggles unless heavy incentives are applied or the pricing drops. It’s clear that VinFast is aiming for a premium image, but without the brand recognition, they might need to reconsider their strategy.

Who Should Consider the VinFast VF8?

The VF8 may not be the strongest contender on paper, but it does offer something different — a fresh brand that’s open to listening and improving. If you’re an early adopter who likes trying new tech and doesn’t mind giving underdog brands a shot, the VF8 could appeal to you.

It’s also worth keeping an eye on the company’s growth. If VinFast continues to respond to criticism and improve its products this rapidly, it could become a serious player in the EV space.

Final Verdict

The 2025 VinFast VF8 is a much-improved version of what was once a heavily criticized product. It still isn’t perfect — the range could be better, the design is dull, and pricing is questionable — but it’s clear that the company is serious about making things right.

In a world dominated by familiar names like Tesla, Ford, and Hyundai, VinFast’s presence is refreshing. The VF8 still has work to do, but it’s no longer the punchline it once was.

If you’re shopping for an electric crossover and want something new — and you’re okay trading a bit of polish for potential — the VinFast VF8 is at least worth a test drive.