The VinFast VF MPV 7 could be the fully electric alternative to the Mitsubishi Xpander, Toyota Avanza
The VinFast brand is gaining a lot of traction here in the Philippines lately, thanks largely to the fact that fuel prices have risen tremendously over the past month or two. One of its recently introduced models that is also receiving attention is the Limo Green fully electric seven-seater MPV.
While it looks good on paper, its primary purpose leans more towards fleet use, such as for ride-hailing services and car rental services. But it looks like VinFast Philippines is preparing to boost its MPV offering with a possible introduction of the VF MPV 7.
Now what is a VinFast VF MPV 7? It’s essentially a more souped up version of the Limo Green, having more niceties than the fleet-oriented MPV, and angled towards more daily users and families looking for a seven-seater vehicle. The seven-seater MPV was just recently added to our favorite source of new vehicle information, the Department of Energy’s List of Recognized EVs.
What can we expect from the VinFast VF MPV 7 if it is indeed launching in our market?
It shares the same basic overall design, but with the LED daytime running lights extending into the VinFast logo in front, similar to other VinFast models. Instead of 18-inch steel wheels with hubcaps, the VF MPV 7 rides on larger 19-inch alloy wheels, and is also a bit taller at 1,734mm (instead of 1,723mm).
Inside, the VF MPV 7 is also largely the same, such as with the minimalist dashboard that features a 10.1-inch central touchscreen infotainment system that houses most vehicle functions. It does get a lot of additional equipment such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel that also gets audio and cruise controls, a column-mounted gear selector, faux leather seat material, and automatic climate control, among others.
As for its electric powertrain, that remains the same with the motor producing 204 horsepower and 280Nm of torque. It features Eco and Normal drive modes like the Limo Green, but gets the addition of a Sport mode.
The motor is paired to a 60.13kWh LFP battery that allows it to drive for up to 450km on a single full charge. It takes approximately 30 minutes to replenish the battery from 10 to 70% through 80kW DC charging.
If launched in the Philippines, the VinFast VF MPV 7 will be competing in the hotly-contested subcompact seven-seater MPV segment with the likes of the country’s bestselling Mitsubishi Xpander, the Toyota Avanza, Suzuki Ertiga, and Nissan Livina. Do you think it has what it takes to steal some sales from those potential rivals?
