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vs 2024:Overall +1Safety -2Reliability +2Efficiency & Range -1Cost of Ownership 0Technology -2Driving Experience +4
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Mid-Size SUV

2025 VinFast VF 9

PremiumEV
Manufacturer site ↗
2026 model shown
1.65DGPA / 4.0
Overall GPA
Reliability
0.30F
Safety
1.92C-
EfficiencyEV
1.87C-
68 MPGe combined · 287 mi range · $1,100/yr energy
Comfort
2.00C
Value
1.34D
Ownership Cost
0.00F
Technology
3.40B+
Driving Experience
1.69D

The verdict

A struggling mid-size suv, strong on technology and held back by ownership.

The 2025 VinFast VF 9 is the brand's US flagship: about $75,000 as delivered for the volume Plus, with 402 hp, standard all-wheel drive, seven seats, a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a head-up display and a 10-year/125,000-mile warranty that no rival comes close to matching. Then the numbers turn: a 123-kWh battery — one of the largest in any SUV — returns just 287 miles and 68 MPGe, fast charging tops out near 150 kW and takes about 40 minutes to reach 80%, and there are only 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row. Launch reviewers found window, door and tailgate sensor faults on press cars before they even moved, US registrations sat near 102 units five months after deliveries began, and a five-year resale projection of 39.4% points to roughly $45,000 in depreciation. Unless a heavily subsidized lease — recently as low as $449 a month — insulates you from that, the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9 do this job better in nearly every measurable way.

Jump to scores

Strengths

  • A warranty no competitor can match
  • Screen, ports and head-up display that shame the price bracket
  • Driver-assist hardware is standard, not optional

What holds it back

  • The worst ownership math in the segment
  • A huge battery that delivers a small range
  • Unproven quality and a service network that keeps shrinking

Top alternatives

Cars shoppers cross-shop with the VinFast VF 9

Production history

2024present · 3 years · 1 generations
Gen 12024now2024In production2026 — graded2025 — graded2024 — gradedProduction began 2024

How it's evolved

3 scored model years · 20242026

02550751002024202520262024 · Overall: 542025 · Overall: 542026 · Overall: 50 (−4 vs 2025)

Subject scores by year

Hover or tap a score to see what moved it versus the year before. A corner mark flags a big swing.

YearPerformanceEfficiencySafetySpaceCostReliabilityTechUse-caseDrivingValue
2026
2025
2024

Compare two years

vs
Performance53
52-1
Efficiency58
56-3
Safety60
54-6
Space61
56-5
Cost25
250
Reliability33
34+1
Tech81
68-13
Use-case59
50-9
Driving51
48-3
Value49
42-7

Best fit & conditions

Winter / inclementB-70/100
AdventureC+64/100
FamilyC+64/100
CommuterD53/100
Work / TowD49/100

Higher scores mean a better fit for that use case. Learn more about use-case fit →

Detailed scoring by subject

1Performance & PowertrainMid-pack among this car's ten categories.1.75C-
Horsepower
402 hp (Eco and Plus)
63/100
#7 of 60 in classCompare all →

The volume Plus trim uses the same dual-motor output as the Eco.

Torque
457 lb-ft
88/100
#12 of 60 in classCompare all →

Both 2025 trims share this peak torque rating.

0–60 mph time
6.7 sec (manufacturer estimate, Plus)
47/100
#26 of 60 in classCompare all →

The Plus is the heavier volume trim and is fractionally slower than Eco.

Powertrain refinement60
#40 of 60 in classCompare all →

Dual-motor response is ample and smooth in ordinary driving, but reviewers describe inconsistent accelerator mapping and an unfinished overall calibration.

Transmission behavior78
#16 of 60 in classCompare all →

The direct-drive single-speed EV transmission avoids shifts and hunting, though the vehicle's broader drivability calibration keeps it below exemplary.

Max towing capacity
3,968 lbs braked (1,653 lbs unbraked)
42/100
#30 of 60 in classCompare all →

This is VinFast's maximum conventional braked-trailer rating for either trim.

AWD/4WD availability85
#16 of 60 in classCompare all →

Dual-motor AWD is standard on every VF 9, with selectable Eco, Normal, and Sport modes, but no low range or dedicated terrain system.

Off-road capability35
#38 of 60 in classCompare all →

Standard AWD helps on loose or slippery roads, but 7.1 inches of clearance and no lockers, skid plates, crawl control, or off-road trim make this a pavement-oriented SUV.

Powertrain lineup breadth20
#52 of 60 in classCompare all →

Eco and Plus differ in equipment, but both use the same 402-hp dual-motor AWD electric powertrain, leaving no meaningful powertrain choice.

2Efficiency & RangeMid-pack among this car's ten categories.1.87C-
3SafetyOne of the VF 9's strongest categories.1.92C-
NHTSA overall rating
Not rated by NHTSA (4-star estimate)
50/100
#38 of 60 in classCompare all →

NHTSA has not published an overall rating for the 2025 VF 9 or another model year of this generation. The required numeric value is therefore a conservative estimate, anchored to the related 2024 VF 8's 4-star overall result rather than VinFast's unverified 5-star design target.

IIHS awards & crashworthiness35
#57 of 60 in classCompare all →

IIHS has not published a rating page, crashworthiness results, or a Top Safety Pick award for the VF 9. Its 11-airbag specification is reassuring on paper but cannot substitute for independent crash testing, placing it in the rubric's untested low band.

Standard ADAS suite breadth90
#9 of 60 in classCompare all →

The volume Eco receives the same broad suite as Plus: front/rear AEB, adaptive cruise, lane keeping and centering, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, highway and traffic-jam assist, and a 360-degree camera. Some advanced functions may require later activation, OTA updates, or a paid Smart Driving package, which keeps the score below the very top.

Automatic emergency braking performance60
#43 of 60 in classCompare all →

Front and rear AEB plus intersection assist provide stronger specified coverage than a basic system, but IIHS has not tested its vehicle, pedestrian-day, or pedestrian-night performance. Credit is limited to documented capability rather than proven stopping performance.

Blind-spot & cross-traffic coverage80
#22 of 60 in classCompare all →

Blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, door-open warning and rear AEB are standard on Eco and Plus, providing wide coverage and braking support while reversing. The published specification does not establish trailer-aware detection or active blind-spot steering intervention.

Lane keeping & centering48
#55 of 60 in classCompare all →

Lane keeping and centering are standard, but a 2025 road test found the system forcefully tugged the wheel instead of steering smoothly and felt one or two generations behind rivals. That crude intervention outweighs the impressive feature list.

Adaptive cruise & highway assist62
#52 of 60 in classCompare all →

Adaptive cruise, traffic-jam assist and highway assist are standard and combine longitudinal and steering support, but reviewer evidence does not show class-leading refinement and the weak lane-control tuning limits trust in the combined system. The owner's manual also requires hands-on supervision.

Hands-free driving availability15
#25 of 60 in classCompare all →

No mature hands-free highway system is offered. Highway Assist is Level 2 and its operating conditions explicitly require the driver's hands on the wheel, so it is not comparable with BlueCruise or Super Cruise.

Headlight performance68
#26 of 60 in classCompare all →

Matrix LED lighting and automatic high beams are standard, a strong equipment baseline, but IIHS has not measured beam reach, curve illumination, or glare on any VF 9 trim. Without a Good rating it remains in the middle band.

Outward visibility63
#47 of 60 in classCompare all →

The large, long body and poor over-the-shoulder view create meaningful blind zones, although standard blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera compensate on paper. Camera usefulness is reduced by an exceptionally low frame rate noted in a 2025 road test.

Child-seat (LATCH) usability62
#52 of 60 in classCompare all →

The Eco's second-row bench and wide door openings make multiple child seats workable, but the third row has top tethers without lower anchors and access becomes difficult when a second-row seat is occupied. The cramped, low third row further limits family flexibility despite the VF 9's large exterior.

4Space & ComfortOne of the VF 9's strongest categories.2.00C
Seating capacity
7 seats (volume Eco; Plus offers 6 or 7)
75/100
#10 of 60 in classCompare all →

The volume Eco uses a three-row 2-3-2 layout.

Front headroom
Approximately 40.0 in
60/100
#25 of 60 in classCompare all →

VinFast does not publish SAE headroom; this is a conservative estimate from the 66.8-inch roof height, low floor, and reviewers' description of large front seats.

Front legroom
Approximately 42.0 in
44/100
#22 of 60 in classCompare all →

No SAE legroom figure is published; the estimate reflects the 124-inch wheelbase and consistently reported spacious first row.

Rear headroom
Approximately 39.0 in
75/100
#26 of 60 in classCompare all →

VinFast does not publish row-specific headroom; reviewers describe ample first- and second-row space.

Rear legroom
Approximately 40.0 in
83/100
#10 of 60 in classCompare all →

No manufacturer SAE figure is available; the estimate is supported by the long wheelbase and reviews calling the second row spacious.

Third-row usability34
#20 of 60 in classCompare all →

The third row has good headroom but a very low cushion, knees-up posture, and difficult access, making it mainly preteen space.

Cargo/trunk volume
32.7 cu ft behind second row (third row folded; 926 L)
14/100
#27 of 60 in classCompare all →

VinFast's seat-down figure corresponds to folding the third row.

Max cargo volume
32.7 cu ft published maximum (926 L)
0/100
#49 of 60 in classCompare all →

VinFast publishes only 926 L as the seat-down capacity and does not provide a larger all-rear-seats-folded SAE figure.

In-cabin storage & clever solutions65
#22 of 60 in classCompare all →

A frunk, broad consoles, wireless charging, and plentiful row-by-row ports are useful, but storage innovation and ultimate cargo capacity lag leading three-row EVs.

Seat comfort77
#20 of 60 in classCompare all →

The large front seats are supportive and heated, while upper-trim front and second-row chairs add ventilation and massage; the poor third row prevents a top score.

Ride quality66
#34 of 60 in classCompare all →

Air springs and the long wheelbase deliver settled highway behavior, but the ride is rigid at low speed and not consistently plush.

Cabin quietness78
#19 of 60 in classCompare all →

The EV drivetrain and standard acoustic front glass support a quiet cabin, with reviewers reporting strong highway refinement.

Climate & comfort features82
#10 of 60 in classCompare all →

Even Eco includes heated front seats and wheel, while Plus adds tri-zone climate, ventilated/massaging front and second-row seats, and a glass roof.

5Cost of OwnershipThe VF 9's lowest-graded category.0.00F
Base MSRP
$71,000 (Eco: $69,800 + $1,200 destination)
0/100
#53 of 60 in classCompare all →

The 2025 VF 9 Eco is the entry trim, although VinFast launched U.S. deliveries with the Plus and said the Eco would arrive later. Its delivered MSRP is above the top of the SUV normalization band.

Volume-Trim Price
$75,000 (Plus: $73,800 + $1,200 destination; tested sticker $76,375)
0/100
#49 of 60 in classCompare all →

The Plus is representative because VinFast began U.S. customer deliveries with it while the Eco was delayed. The $75,000 delivered MSRP excludes optional paint or seating, which raised Edmunds' observed customer vehicle to $76,375.

5-Year Maintenance & Repair Cost
~$4,500 over 5 yr / 75,000 mi (estimated maintenance + repairs)
77/100
#15 of 60 in classCompare all →

No credible model-specific five-year projection is published for this extremely low-volume newcomer. EV routine service is light and covered defects fall under the unusually long warranty, but a 6,500-lb SUV's large tires and limited service network justify a higher estimate than smaller EVs.

5-Year Resale Value Retention
39.4% of MSRP retained after 5 years (projected)
0/100
#51 of 60 in classCompare all →

The projection places the VF 9 just below the SUV normalization floor, consistent with its tiny U.S. footprint, aggressive leasing and uncertain brand acceptance. This is a statistical projection rather than five years of VF 9 transaction history.

Basic warranty
10 yr / 125,000 mi new-vehicle warranty
100/100
#1 of 60 in classCompare all →

VinFast covers the whole vehicle for 10 years/125,000 miles, twice the upper end of the rubric's basic-warranty band and far beyond mainstream or premium competitors.

Powertrain warranty
10 yr / unlimited mi high-voltage battery; vehicle/drivetrain 10 yr / 125,000 mi
100/100
#1 of 60 in classCompare all →

The original high-voltage battery receives 10 years with unlimited mileage for non-commercial use, while the drivetrain is protected by the 10-year/125,000-mile vehicle warranty. This reaches the top of the SUV band.

Complimentary maintenance & perks62
#15 of 60 in classCompare all →

There is no included scheduled-maintenance program or U.S. charging credit, but VinFast provides unusually comprehensive 24/7 roadside support and mobile repairs. Roadside coverage includes jump-start, lockout, winching, warranty and collision towing, and out-of-charge towing to a charger or home.

Effective 5-Year Ownership Cost
$49,950 (≈$45,450 depreciation + $4,500 maintenance)
1/100
#54 of 60 in classCompare all →

$75,000 volume-trim price minus its estimated resale value after 5 years (39.4% retained, or about $29,550) leaves about $45,450 in depreciation. Add the projected $4,500 in 5-year maintenance and repairs, and owning this vehicle for 5 years costs about $49,950 in total.

6Reliability & QualityOne of the VF 9's weakest categories.0.30F
Predicted reliability25
#59 of 60 in classCompare all →

Consumer Reports has insufficient owner-survey data to predict reliability for the 2025 VF 9, while early US press vehicles exhibited multiple sensor and software faults before or during very short drives. The model is too new for a dependable long-term forecast, but the observed launch defects put it below average rather than merely unknown.

Brand reliability track record20
#59 of 60 in classCompare all →

VinFast lacks the multi-year US sample needed for inclusion in major CR or J.D. Power dependability rankings, and its first US product established a poor software and quality reputation. That is materially weaker support than even a bottom-third established brand with a measurable history.

Recall & TSB history72
#8 of 60 in classCompare all →

No US NHTSA safety-recall campaign specific to the 2025 VF 9 was identified, which is favorable on its face. The score stops below the cleanest band because US volume and exposure are extremely small, the generation is young, and overseas VF 9s built through March 2024 were recalled for an airbag inspection/replacement.

Powertrain durability reputation32
#58 of 60 in classCompare all →

The dual-motor AWD system and very large 123-kWh battery have essentially no US high-mileage record, and the 2025 vehicle is only the second model year in the registry's 2024-start generation. The long warranty reduces owner exposure but does not establish durability, while recurring software and calibration faults add risk around the broader propulsion system.

Interior material quality58
#48 of 60 in classCompare all →

The volume Eco trim presents well with vegan-leather seating, ambient lighting and a large 15.6-inch display, giving it acceptable richness for a premium three-row SUV. Reviewers nevertheless place its refinement behind similarly priced established rivals, so it is competitive-looking rather than genuinely premium in execution.

Fit & finish32
#59 of 60 in classCompare all →

Multiple press vehicles showed conspicuous delivery-quality faults, including non-working window, door and tailgate sensors plus warning messages. Physical fit and finish was judged improved and not uniformly poor, but the repeated electronic defects and inconsistent controls are unacceptable at this price.

Dealer & service network22
#60 of 60 in classCompare all →

VinFast's US footprint is sparse and geographically uneven, leaving many owners far from brand-authorized EV service. Mobile and 24/7 assistance soften the problem only where available and do not substitute for a dense, mature dealer network.

Parts availability & repair cost20
#59 of 60 in classCompare all →

The low-volume, imported VF 9 has virtually no US aftermarket and model-specific body, electronics and high-voltage parts depend on VinFast channels. An unusually long factory warranty is valuable, but it covers cost rather than eliminating parts delays or limited collision-repair options.

7Technology & InfotainmentThe VF 9's best-graded category.3.40B+
Touchscreen size
15.6 in
100/100
#1 of 60 in classCompare all →

The same central display is fitted to both trims.

Infotainment UX & responsiveness63
#47 of 60 in classCompare all →

The latest layout is responsive and improved, but too many basic functions live in the screen and software warnings remain a concern.

Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto95
#2 of 60 in classCompare all →

Both wireless projection systems are standard.

Voice control & native navigation75
#23 of 60 in classCompare all →

Alexa offers natural-language functions and the native system includes navigation, though owners still benefit from phone projection.

Audio system quality75
#31 of 60 in classCompare all →

A 14-speaker arrangement including subwoofer is unusually generous, though no premium audio brand or exceptional review verdict is documented.

Digital instrument cluster45
#57 of 60 in classCompare all →

There is no separate gauge cluster; speed and vehicle data share the center screen, partially offset by a standard HUD.

OTA update capability78
#16 of 60 in classCompare all →

The connected architecture supports vehicle software updates and feature deployment, but the early software record is inconsistent.

Companion app & remote functions78
#14 of 60 in classCompare all →

The app provides vehicle data, remote control, navigation, service booking and roadside assistance, a broad feature set without documented phone-as-key.

Charging ports & device power94
#2 of 60 in classCompare all →

Every row gets two USB ports, plus a 90W USB-C port, wireless charging, 12V luggage power and an AC outlet.

Keyless & remote access80
#18 of 60 in classCompare all →

Smart-key entry/start and a hands-free power liftgate are standard, though phone-as-key is not documented.

Camera & parking aids82
#18 of 60 in classCompare all →

Front/rear sensors and a surround-view camera are standard, but reviewers observed visible camera stutter.

Head-up display availability90
#2 of 60 in classCompare all →

A head-up display is standard on Eco and Plus and is especially valuable given the absent gauge cluster.

8Use-Case FitMid-pack among this car's ten categories.1.87C-
Kid & car-seat practicality63
#46 of 60 in classCompare all →

Wide doors, seven seats and a power liftgate help, but the cramped third row, difficult access and no lower LATCH anchors there limit family flexibility.

Family safety package64
#44 of 60 in classCompare all →

Eleven airbags, surround view, Level 2 highway assist, AEB and comprehensive lane/traffic aids are standard, but no U.S. NCAP or IIHS crash rating is published for the 2025 VF9.

Family road-trip comfort65
#36 of 60 in classCompare all →

The first two rows, quiet highway ride and rich climate/charging amenities work well, but adult-hostile third-row seating and only 7.5 cu ft behind it constrain full-family trips.

Daily driving ease55
#55 of 60 in classCompare all →

Strong visibility aids and smooth EV acceleration help, but inconsistent regeneration, jumpy initial throttle and huge turning circle make traffic more tiring than expected.

Commuting cost efficiency68
#14 of 60 in classCompare all →

Electric running costs are favorable versus gasoline SUVs, but 68 MPGe combined is poor for an EV and the 6,500-pound footprint will increase tire costs.

Parking & maneuverability35
#60 of 60 in classCompare all →

The VF9 is over 201 inches long and its 48.1-foot turning circle is exceptionally cumbersome, though standard surround view and sensors prevent an even lower result.

Work capability62
#10 of 60 in classCompare all →

Standard AWD, 402 hp, 1,212-pound Eco payload and nearly 4,000-pound braked tow rating handle light-to-moderate work, but cargo space is modest.

Durability for work duty40
#46 of 60 in classCompare all →

The very long warranty helps, but the young platform, software faults and comfort-oriented cabin leave hard-use durability unproven.

Jobsite & upfit practicality38
#28 of 60 in classCompare all →

A luggage-area 12V outlet, AC outlet and accessory hitch offer basics, but there is no work-focused onboard-power system or established upfit ecosystem.

Long-distance comfort & range70
#34 of 60 in classCompare all →

The Eco's 330-mile EPA range, quiet cabin and settled highway ride are strong, but slow 400V charging and inconsistent software/ADAS temper touring appeal.

Outdoor & adventure capability64
#34 of 60 in classCompare all →

AWD, 7.1-inch clearance, roof load allowance and nearly 4,000-pound towing suit gravel roads and recreational gear, though clearance is modest.

Gear & luggage flexibility55
#48 of 60 in classCompare all →

A 40:20:40 second row, folding third row, frunk and roof/hitch provisions add flexibility, but published cargo volume is unexpectedly small for its footprint.

9Driving ExperienceGrades below the middle of the scale.1.69D
Handling & agility61
#47 of 60 in classCompare all →

It feels large but remains reasonably composed and direct; low-speed bulk and some float keep it well short of athletic rivals.

Steering feel62
#27 of 60 in classCompare all →

Reassuring weight and directness beat the EV norm, but the steering is not sporty and low-speed behavior can feel awkward.

Braking confidence53
#54 of 60 in classCompare all →

Mechanical braking is smooth, but unpredictable and heavy regenerative braking undermines consistent pedal-and-lift-off confidence.

Powertrain smoothness & response57
#50 of 60 in classCompare all →

Dual-motor response is strong and smooth at speed, but initial throttle tip-in is jumpy and regen calibration makes stop-and-go progress jerky.

Drivetrain noise & vibration86
#5 of 60 in classCompare all →

The dual-motor EV drivetrain is near-silent and no reviewer identifies meaningful motor vibration or objectionable whine.

Turning circle
48.1 ft curb-to-curb (14.66 m)
0/100
#59 of 60 in classCompare all →

The official diameter is far beyond the SUV normalization band and explains reviewers' maneuverability criticism.

Driving position & ergonomics59
#56 of 60 in classCompare all →

The roomy, elevated position and standard HUD are positives, but mirror and steering-wheel adjustment through screen-plus-buttons is convoluted and the center-screen speedometer is a compromise.

Fun-to-drive factor55
#38 of 60 in classCompare all →

402 hp and direct steering provide adequate pace, but the enormous footprint, inconsistent low-speed calibration and numb character make it more transport than entertainment.

10Value & Market PositionOne of the VF 9's weakest categories.1.34D
Standard equipment generosity85
#3 of 60 in classCompare all →

Even the Eco includes dual-motor AWD with 402 hp, seven seats, a 123-kWh battery, a 15.6-inch screen, wireless phone integration, a panoramic roof and an extensive ADAS suite. The Plus adds richer seating and comfort content, making equipment generosity a clear strength despite the high entry price.

Feature value per dollar42
#60 of 60 in classCompare all →

The warranty, power and standard equipment are substantial, but the roughly $75,000 Plus competes with polished, faster-charging alternatives from established brands. Edmunds found the delivered VF 9 within reach of a loaded Kia EV9 while materially behind it in refinement, software, usability and third-row/cargo packaging.

Trim & configuration breadth35
#60 of 60 in classCompare all →

Choice is limited to Eco and Plus, both with the same dual-motor AWD powertrain and battery; there is no lower-priced single-motor version. The Plus offers captain's chairs, but otherwise this is close to a take-it-or-leave-it lineup.

Sales popularity & market acceptance10
#60 of 60 in classCompare all →

U.S. acceptance was exceptionally weak: deliveries began with only eight customers and subsequent registration reporting remained around one hundred units after several months. This is far below even niche three-row EV competitors and indicates virtually no market traction.

Brand desirability & image20
#60 of 60 in classCompare all →

Pininfarina styling and a flagship position provide some novelty, but VinFast entered the U.S. with little recognition and severe quality/software baggage from the VF 8. The VF 9's own launch-drive faults, sparse dealer/service footprint and uncertain U.S. strategy reinforce rather than repair that image.

Deals & incentive availability88
#6 of 60 in classCompare all →

Buyer-facing incentives have been exceptionally rich: launch leases combined multiple discounts worth up to $14,550, and later 2025-model leases fell to about $449 per month. The generosity is excellent for a willing lessee, although it plainly reflects weak demand and residual risk.

Model freshness92
#9 of 60 in classCompare all →

The 2025 VF 9 belongs to the first generation beginning in 2024 and was newly arriving to U.S. customers for this model year, so redesign risk was minimal. It is mechanically a carry-over rather than a refresh, but its platform, large battery and software-defined feature set were still new to the market.

Critical reception & awards25
#59 of 60 in classCompare all →

Reviews acknowledge strong acceleration, improved ride, abundant technology and generous equipment, but the consistent verdict is that the VF 9 remains unfinished and uncompetitive. It earned no major U.S. vehicle award or comparison win, and launch drives documented repeated software faults and poor third-row packaging.