Electric vehicles are no longer a rarity on Philippine streets, and one of the more recent brands making waves is VinFast. Its compact crossover, the VF 5, has been gradually carving out a place among Filipino drivers seeking an affordable and fashionable route to electric motoring.
The VF 5 is designed with urban life in mind. At just under four meters long, it’s compact enough to cope with Metro Manila traffic and squeeze into tight mall parking spaces, yet it still presents the posture of a small SUV. Inside, the layout uses the space smartly, offering reasonable headroom and legroom along with a cargo area suitable for errands or the occasional weekend getaway. For young couples, new families, or lone drivers, it strikes a balance between compact footprint and usable interior space. Beyond its proportions and practicality, the VF 5 also makes a persuasive argument on running costs. As a fully electric vehicle, it removes fuel bills, needs fewer maintenance visits, and benefits from zero excise tax under the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (Evida). VinFast has also pledged free charging at its V-Green stations nationwide through 2027, cutting ownership expenses further. With fuel prices staying unpredictable, the VF 5 is presented as a sensible and realistic choice for everyday mobility.
The VinFast VF 5 blends contemporary looks with emission-free driving. Performance suits urban use and short provincial trips. A 100-kilowatt (kW) motor delivering 134 horsepower and 135 Newton-meters of torque offers smooth acceleration and assured handling whether threading through traffic or ascending flyovers. On a full charge, the VF 5 can cover up to 326 kilometers on the NEDC cycle, ample for several days of commuting or a weekend run to Pampanga or Batangas. Fast charging is also supported, replenishing the battery from 10 to 70 percent in roughly 30 minutes.
Inside, the VF 5 is equipped with an eight-inch infotainment display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with conveniences such as keyless entry, push-button start, and cruise control. Safety is also emphasized, with six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a reinforced body structure offering peace of mind for occupants. The VF 5’s styling, crafted by Italy’s Torino Design, gives it a youthful, dynamic appearance. Sharp body creases, a confident stance, and optional two-tone paint choices lend it character, helping it stand apart from other small crossovers on the market.
For many drivers, the VF 5 appeals not because it tries to outshine bigger EVs, but because it provides a practical way to finally switch. It is accessible, economical to operate, and contemporary enough to satisfy today’s car buyers. In short, it feels less like a futuristic experiment and more like an everyday solution — precisely what many Filipinos want in their first electric vehicle.
Auto and lifestyle writer who loves simplifying complex topics into easy-to-understand insights.
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