If you’re hunting for an affordable electric SUV that punches way above its price tag, the DongFeng Vigo might just be your next garage mate. This compact crossover from China’s automotive giant DongFeng is making waves Down Under, launched last year with a mission to bring EV parity to the ICE-dominated SUV segment.
Fresh off the boat in New Zealand, DongFeng’s history dates back to 1969, starting with military trucks before pivoting to civilian vehicles in the ’70s. Still state-owned and part of China’s “big four” manufacturers, they’re not messing around. Priced at an introductory $37,990, the Vigo aims to smash EV ownership barriers with space, style, and surprises galore.
Aerodynamic Ruggedness with Korean Flair and Hidden Easter Eggs
First impressions? The Vigo looks like it borrowed a page from Hyundai or Kia’s playbook – think sleek, flush-fronted aggression that’s oddly at home in the SUV crowd. Its aerodynamic shape isn’t just for show; it contributes to an impressive WLTP range we’ll geek out on later. Measuring 4.3m long, 1.65m tall, with a generous 2.7m wheelbase, it’s compact yet promises cavernous insides. Perched on 18-inch wheels shod in uniquely named rubber, it boasts solid SUV creds, 190mm ground clearance, capable approach and departure angles for light off-road jaunts, roof rails as standard, and rugged wheel arch protectors.
The front grille screams modernity with LED DRLs and headlights forming a sharp, downlit signature. DongFeng’s logo, two swallows chasing each other, combined with the name that means east winds (better than the West?) sits proudly, on the bonnet. As a footnote, the headlights feature coordinates that pinpoint the brand’s Wuhan headquarters. A clever Easter egg!
Sides feature flush, flick-open door handles that take getting used to but add a premium touch, while around back there’s a roof spoiler, a tow bar (rating TBD, but it’s there), and the star of the show a split tailgate. Upper for quick access, lower for sitting (under 150kg, sorry big lads) or loading.
The boot swallows 500L including underfloor storage, with fold-flat seats perfect for camping, blow-up mattress, anyone? Colour pops like the $499 wild green on our tester stand out against standard white, giving it personality without pretension. It’s blunt, boxy, and parkable – ideal for urban New Zealanders tired of oversized utes.
Spacious Family Haven with Premium Touches on a Budget
Slide inside, and that 2.7m wheelbase delivers. Airy front and rear spaces with ample shoulder room, headroom (even under the panoramic glass roof), and legroom for tall passengers – no skimping here. It’s family-friendly, with practical storage everywhere, deep door bins, glovebox, armrest cubby, open console, and dashboard shelf. Materials impress at this price, leatherette seats, soft-touch doors and dash, color-blocked patterns breaking up the monochrome. Lower plastics are scratchy but smoothed over nicely.
Easter eggs continue: a Vigo scaling mountains etched on the windscreen, mysterious icons (Jeep grille? Pagani?), adding whimsy without taking itself too seriously. DongFeng’s slogan? “Drive your dreams” and with camping/nap modes, they’re serious about lifestyle EVs. It’s not luxury, but thoughtful details make it feel premium.
Massive Screen, Party Tricks, and EV Smarts
Dominating the dash is a floating 17.8-inch central touchscreen, generous without blocking sightlines.The interface is clean but under utilizes the background real estate; key functions cluster intuitively. Apple CarPlay is standard (Android Auto via wired connector), 360° cameras ease parking, and six speakers handle tunes. Dig deeper for gems, Vehicle Centre with customisable sound effects for *everything* door chimes, indicators, you name it, although this can become tiresome. And on the matter of moans, the phone charger (while good), doesn’t hold the phone in place, so you will lose it should you drive more enthusiastically.
The Energy Centre breaks down consumption, battery status, and range with DC fast-charging insights. Camping mode keeps climate on for overnight adventures; nap mode dials down distractions (parked only, folks). It’s detailed, user-friendly, and hints at Vigo’s efficiency prowess.
Efficient FWD Punch with Rapid Charging
Underpinning the fun is a 51.8kWh-ish battery (exact ~52kWh) driving a front-wheel 120kW/230Nm motor.WLTP range hits 340km, but real-world tests suggest 350km+ thanks to aero efficiency. Acceleration feels fine for city runs, briskish off the line with instant EV torque. DC charging? 30-80% in 18 minutes, coffee run sorted. AC is standard, and overall efficiency shines, rivaling pricier rivals. Paired with regen braking (likely adjustable via infotainment), it’s a barrier-buster for range-anxious Kiwis.
Driving Impressions – Balanced, Efficient, and Surprisingly Fun
The Vigo glides with composed handling from its long wheelbase, stable on highways, nimble in traffic. FWD setup suits NZ’s wet corners, with good grip from those 18s. Ride quality is compliant over bumps, 190mm clearance tackling potholes and gravel drives. Steering’s light yet precise, perfect for Auckland gridlock or Auckland-to-Hamilton hauls. Efficiency steals the show – I clocked very near-claimed figures, sipping energy like a pro. Quiet cabin (save fun sound effects) amplifies serenity, panoramic roof flooding light. Brakes blend regen seamlessly; with near one-pedal potential there. Off-road? Not hardcore, but angles and clearance handle light Kiwi farm tracks.
Drawbacks? Manual boot lid (gasp!), no wireless AA, the lane keep assist is quite frankly, unusable (I’m sure it will be upgraded) and build quality to watch long-term – Chinese EVs have improved, but time will tell.
Tarmac Takeaway – EV Value King?
In a market flooded with Tesla Model Ys and BYD Atto 3s, Vigo undercuts at $37,990 with similar space/tech. All up, the Vigo isn’t flawless, but at this price, it’s a stunner. Spacious, feature-packed, efficient – it lives up to “versatile Dong” It’s versatile, commuter, family hauler, camper
