The VinFast LUX SA 2.0 is a mid-size SUV produced by the Vietnamese automotive manufacturer VinFast, beginning in 2019. Representing VinFast’s initial foray into the automotive market, the LUX SA 2.0 aimed to establish the brand as a serious competitor, particularly within the burgeoning Southeast Asian automotive landscape. While not officially sold in the United States, the vehicle is significant as a demonstration of Vietnam’s growing industrial capabilities and ambition in the automotive sector. The “SA” designation stands for “Sport Activity,” reflecting the vehicle’s intended blend of practicality and driving dynamics. The LUX SA 2.0 was designed with significant input from Pininfarina, the renowned Italian design house, and utilizes a BMW-sourced engine and platform components, highlighting VinFast’s strategy of leveraging established technology during its initial production phase.
VinFast LUX SA 2.0: Overview and Market Position
The VinFast LUX SA 2.0 occupies the mid-size SUV segment, competing with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Hyundai Santa Fe in markets where it was available. However, its positioning was somewhat unique, aiming for a more premium feel and feature set than many of its direct competitors. VinFast targeted a customer base seeking a blend of luxury, technology, and value. The vehicle was primarily marketed in Vietnam and select export markets, serving as a flagship model for the newly established brand. The LUX SA 2.0 was offered with both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine being the primary powertrain option. The seven-seat configuration was a key selling point, catering to families and those requiring additional passenger capacity.
Engine & Performance
The VinFast LUX SA 2.0 2.0 is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated the N20B20, sourced from BMW. This engine produces 228 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750-4500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear changes. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio is 9.2 kg/Hp, or 108.6 Hp/tonne, indicating a respectable level of performance. The weight-to-torque ratio is 6 kg/Nm, or 166.7 Nm/tonne. The engine’s power per liter is 114.1 Hp/l, demonstrating a relatively high output for its displacement. While official acceleration figures were not widely publicized, the combination of the turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive provides adequate performance for everyday driving and highway cruising. The engine oil capacity is 5 liters (5.28 US qt / 4.4 UK qt), and requires a specification detailed in the vehicle’s service manual.
Design & Features
The exterior design of the VinFast LUX SA 2.0 is the result of collaboration with Pininfarina, resulting in a stylish and modern SUV. The vehicle features a prominent grille, sleek headlights, and a flowing roofline. The body is a traditional five-door SUV configuration, offering seven seats across three rows. The interior is designed with a focus on comfort and luxury, featuring high-quality materials and a spacious cabin. Key features include a large touchscreen infotainment system, leather upholstery, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. The vehicle’s dimensions are substantial, with a length of 4940 mm (194.49 in), a width of 1960 mm (77.17 in), and a height of 1773 mm (69.8 in). The wheelbase measures 2933 mm (115.47 in), providing a stable and comfortable ride. Ground clearance is 192 mm (7.56 in). The LUX SA 2.0 incorporates independent multi-link suspension on both the front and rear axles, contributing to improved ride quality and handling. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, assisted by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The vehicle is equipped with 20-inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | VinFast |
| Model | LUX SA |
| Generation | LUX SA |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (228 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 228 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 114.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm / 258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4500 rpm |
| Engine Model/Code | N20B20 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 / 121.93 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l / 5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2100 kg / 4629.71 lbs. |
| Length | 4940 mm / 194.49 in. |
| Width | 1960 mm / 77.17 in. |
| Height | 1773 mm / 69.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2933 mm / 115.47 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 192 mm / 7.56 in. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
The VinFast LUX SA 2.0, while not a mainstream vehicle in the United States, represents a significant step in the development of the Vietnamese automotive industry. Its combination of BMW-sourced components, Pininfarina design, and a focus on luxury and technology positioned it as a competitive offering in its target markets. The vehicle’s legacy lies in its role as a foundational model for VinFast, paving the way for the company’s future expansion and its ambitions to become a global automotive brand.
