Dongfeng VIGO comes to Europe for under €30,000
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Dongfeng is expanding its European electric-car line-up with the VIGO urban SUV, whose key selling points are a 340 km WLTP range, 18-minute rapid charging and a starting price of €29,990. The 4.31-metre model uses a 51.87 kWh LFP battery and a 120 kW front-wheel-drive powertrain.
The VIGO does not seek to win on power or a huge battery. Instead, Dongfeng is betting on spaciousness and equipment to put pressure on Europe’s rapidly growing sub-€30,000 electric-car segment.
340 km of range, 18-minute charging
The VIGO’s permanent-magnet electric motor produces 120 kW and 230 Nm, driving the front wheels. Top speed is 150 km/h. The driver can choose between Eco, Comfort and Sport driving modes and adjust the strength of regenerative braking.
The 51.87 kWh LFP battery delivers up to 340 km in the WLTP combined cycle, while the figure rises to 521 km in the urban cycle.
Its more significant strength is charging speed. According to Dongfeng, charging the battery from 30% to 80% at a DC charger takes around 18 minutes. The manufacturer does not disclose the maximum DC charging power.
For Europe, the weaker point is the 6.6 kW AC onboard charger, as 11 kW three-phase charging is already common in this segment. On the other hand, the VIGO supports V2L functionality, allowing external electrical devices to be powered from the car’s battery.
A compact body hides a large boot
The VIGO is 4.31 metres long, 1.87 metres wide and 1.65 metres high. Its 2.72-metre wheelbase leaves ample space in the five-seat cabin.
The boot holds 500 litres, expanding to 1,040 litres with the rear seats folded. There is also a 72-litre storage compartment under the floor, while a 49-litre front boot is available as an option.
A practical feature is the two-part tailgate. The upper section can be opened separately, while the lower section folds down horizontally and supports more than 150 kg. It can be used, for example, as a seat or support surface. The front seats can also be folded almost flat, creating a level surface up to two metres long.
Plenty of equipment
A 12.8-inch touchscreen sits above the centre console, while the driver gets an 8.88-inch digital instrument cluster. The VIGO supports Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth and DAB radio; Android Auto requires the included external device.
Both front seats are electrically adjustable, while the driver’s seat also has heating, ventilation and memory functions. The car offers 50 W wireless charging for a phone.
Driver-assistance systems include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, traffic-sign recognition and driver monitoring. A 360-degree camera and front and rear sensors assist with parking.
The price makes the VIGO interesting
It is the standard €29,990 price that best demonstrates Dongfeng’s ambitions in Europe. A 340 km range is not class-leading and the 6.6 kW AC charger seems modest, but 18-minute rapid charging, a 500-litre boot, V2L and generous equipment make for a respectable package at this price.
