VinFast just revealed its newest SUV, the VF 7

• The new model is not on sale yet in North America, but we shouldnt have to wait too long to see it on the street.

• The VF 7 will be a cheaper option than the current VF8 and VF 9 SUVs.

• The crossover has dimensions similar to the ones from a Volkswagen ID.4.

VinFast launched another SUV today, the VF 7. At this time, the new model, which is smaller than the two currently on sale here – the VF8 and VF 9 – is destined for sale on Vietnamese soil only.

But, as the young manufacturer seeks to gain market share wherever it sets up shop, it’s clear that North America is a logical option for this model, which could even be sold at a preferential US price of $35,000. This new compact model would play in the same segment as the Volkswagen ID.4 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, to name only these two popular models.

In terms of design, the VF 7 follows the brand’s philosophy, with V-shaped daytime running lights pattern at both ends, complemented by light clusters set lower down on the bumper. The VF 7 doesn’t try to overdo it on the outside, with integrated door handles, a charging port on the left front fender, black rocker panels and that “floating roof” feel at the rear.

VinFast has also revealed the specifications of the compact model. In base trim, the VF 7 makes do with a front-mounted engine, the mill, which delivers 201 hp and 228 ft-lb of torque. This version also boasts an estimated range between recharges of 450 km according to the WLTP calculation cycle. In the Plus version, the VF 7 switches to all-wheel drive with two engines, delivering 348 hp and 368 ft-lb of torque. Range, meanwhile, is only slightly reduced, with 431 km possible between recharges. The vehicle also uses a battery pack with a capacity of 75.3 kWh.

Like many recent EVs, the interior is quite uncluttered. The dashboard features a single central touchscreen with a few buttons at its base, and that’s pretty much it. The screen size is 12.9 inches for the less-equipped version, rising to 15 inches for the Plus level. It should also be noted that the VF 7 is a vehicle capable of seating just five passengers.

It will be interesting to see when VinFast intends to graft this more accessible electric crossover onto its North American line-up, since it must be said that the automaker has little choice but to broaden its line-up to maximize its footprint in the US and Canadian markets, with the VF 7 expected to slip below the $50,000 Canadian mark when it arrives here in a year or two.