Specifications of the Vinfast VF MPV 7, the Vietnamese manufacturer’s third product for the Indian market, have recently been revealed alongside the start of bookings for the 7-seater e-MPV. It takes on rivals such as the Kia Carens Clavis EV and the BYD eMax 7, both of which also offer three rows of seating. So, how do the specifications of the Vinfast VF MPV 7 compare against its Kia and BYD rivals? We find out.
Vinfast VF MPV 7 vs rivals: Dimensions
VF MPV 7 is the biggest MPV amongst rivals in all aspects
The Vinfast VF MPV 7 is noticeably larger than both rivals. Compared to the Kia Carens Clavis EV, it is 190 mm longer, 72mm wider, and has a 60mm longer wheelbase, while the height of both models is nearly the same. Compared to the BYD eMax 7, the VF MPV 7 is 30mm longer, 62mm wider, 44mm taller, and offers a 40mm longer wheelbase.
It also stands out with larger 19-inch alloy wheels, whereas both competitors come with 17-inch rims.
Vinfast VF MPV 7 vs rivals: Powertrains
BYD e-MPV offers the biggest battery pack, claims the highest driving range
*Power, torque and claimed range figures have been taken from the internationally available model which is offered with the same battery pack as the India-spec model.
Unlike the Vinfast VF MPV 7, both the Kia Carens Clavis EV and the BYD eMax 7 are available with two battery options. Notably, the VinFast VF MPV 7 offers a larger battery pack than both options available with the Kia Carens Clavis EV, while its capacity falls between the two battery packs offered with the BYD eMax 7.
In terms of performance, the VF MPV 7 matches the power output of the larger-battery version of the BYD eMax 7 variants, but produces 30Nm less torque. However, it delivers 33hp and 25Nm more than the larger-battery versions of the Carens Clavis EV.
The BYD eMax 7, with the largest battery in the segment, offers the highest claimed range, around 80km more than the VF MPV 7 (NEDC). While the MIDC range for the Vinfast model is yet to be announced, the company claims it will exceed 500km, placing it ahead of the Carens Clavis EV on this measure.
Vinfast VF MPV 7 vs rivals: Prices
VF MPV 7 is expected to be priced similarly to the Carens Clavis EV
The Kia Carens Clavis EV is priced between Rs 17.99 lakh and Rs 24.99 lakh, making its top-spec variant Rs 1.91 lakh more affordable than the base variant of the BYD eMax 7. Prices for the Vinfast VF MPV 7 will be announced on April 15, and it is expected to be positioned between the Kia and BYD rivals. On paper, the VF MPV 7 appears to be a strong middle-ground contender. It offers better specifications than the Carens Clavis EV while likely being more affordable than the BYD eMax 7.
Prices are ex-showroom, India.
