Dongfeng Vigo: The Perfect Picnic-SUV for You?
Is the Dongfeng Vigo the ideal SUV for your next picnic adventure?
The Dongfeng Vigo is a new compact SUV that has been launched in New Zealand, offering a range of features that make it an attractive option for those seeking a pure-electric vehicle. With a 52kWh LFP battery, single 120kW/230Nm motor, and a WLTP range of 340km, the Vigo is designed to provide a smooth and efficient driving experience. But what sets the Vigo apart from other SUVs on the market? Let's take a closer look.
A Luxurious Standard-Equipment List
One of the key features of the Vigo is its luxurious standard-equipment list, which includes LED lights, 6-way power-adjustable seats for the driver and front passenger, climate control with rear-seat outlets, ambient interior lighting, a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system. These features make the Vigo a comfortable and convenient option for long drives, whether you're heading to the picnic or just cruising around town.
Spacious and Versatile Interior
The Vigo's cabin space and cargo-area versatility are also a big part of its appeal. With a length of 4.3m and a wheelbase that accounts for 67% of that length, the Vigo offers generous accommodation for both front and rear passengers. The flat floor in the back makes it even more welcoming, and the boot is impressively big for the class, at 500 litres. The split tailgate is a novel feature that allows you to sit on it at a picnic, and the manual tailgate can be powered for an additional cost.
Camp Mode and External Speaker
The Vigo also features Camp Mode, which maintains a temperature of 25 degrees inside even when the vehicle is off and locked up. This feature, combined with the external speaker at the front, makes it easy to play music via the car's audio system, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. However, it's worth noting that the Vigo only comes with Apple CarPlay pre-installed, and an Android phone will require an additional phone-projection upgrade package.
Safety Features
Safety is a key concern for the Vigo, and while it hasn't been ANCAP tested, it carries 5-star approval from NZ's VSRR. This is an important feature to consider when choosing an SUV, and it's reassuring to know that the Vigo has been designed with safety in mind.
Pricing and Launch Offer
The Vigo is priced at $39,990, with a launch offer that applies a $2k discount until the end of April, bringing the price down to $37,990. This price point is competitive with other SUVs in the market, and the Vigo offers a range of features that make it an attractive option for those seeking a pure-electric vehicle.
Who Should Consider the Vigo?
The Dongfeng Vigo is an ideal option for those seeking a compact SUV with a luxurious standard-equipment list, spacious and versatile interior, and a range of safety features. While it may not be the most powerful or high-performance SUV on the market, the Vigo offers a smooth and efficient driving experience, making it a great choice for those seeking a practical and comfortable vehicle for their next picnic adventure.
Other SUVs to Consider
If you're considering the Vigo, you may also want to look at other small BEV-SUVs in the $40k mark, such as the BYD Atto 2, Omoda E5, and Jaecoo J5. However, Dongfeng would like to think that buyers of sub-$40k hybrid and ICE SUVs will also take a look at the Vigo, as it offers a range of features that make it an attractive option for those seeking a pure-electric vehicle.
Thought-Provoking Question
So, what do you think? Is the Dongfeng Vigo the perfect picnic-SUV for you? Or are there other features that you look for in an SUV that the Vigo doesn't offer? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to share your thoughts on this controversial new vehicle!
