The VinFast LUX SA 2.0 is a mid-size SUV produced by the Vietnamese automotive manufacturer VinFast, debuting 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 VinFast’s first production model and a demonstration of their ambition to create globally competitive vehicles. The “SA” designation stands for “Sport Activity,” reflecting the vehicle’s intended blend of practicality and driving dynamics. It was designed with significant input from Pininfarina, the renowned Italian design house, and built upon a platform licensed from BMW.
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 Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot in markets where it was available. However, its primary focus was the Vietnamese domestic market, where it was positioned as a premium offering with a focus on luxury and technology. The vehicle was intended to appeal to consumers seeking a sophisticated and well-equipped SUV, and it served as a flagship model for the newly established VinFast brand. The LUX SA 2.0 was part of a larger strategy by VinFast to rapidly develop and introduce a range of vehicles, including sedans and smaller SUVs, to capture market share in Southeast Asia and eventually expand into other global markets.
Engine & Performance
The VinFast LUX SA 2.0 2.0 is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated the N20B20. This engine, sourced under license from BMW, utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler to produce 228 horsepower at 5000-6000 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750-4500 rpm. This output translates to a power-to-weight ratio of 9.2 kg/Hp and 108.6 Hp/tonne, providing reasonably brisk acceleration for a vehicle of its size. The engine’s specific output is 114.1 Hp per liter, demonstrating a good level of efficiency. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The drivetrain configuration is a traditional rear-wheel drive setup, which was a deliberate choice to provide a more engaging driving experience compared to the more common front-wheel drive layouts in the segment. The weight-to-torque ratio is 6 kg/Nm, or 166.7 Nm/tonne, indicating a responsive powertrain.
Design & Features
The exterior design of the VinFast LUX SA 2.0 is a product of collaboration with Pininfarina, resulting in a stylish and modern aesthetic. The SUV features a prominent grille, sleek headlights, and a flowing roofline. The body is a five-door SUV configuration, offering seating for up to seven passengers. 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 ample interior space. Ground clearance is rated at 192 mm (7.56 in). Inside, the LUX SA 2.0 boasts a luxurious interior with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort. Key features include a large touchscreen infotainment system, leather upholstery, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle was designed to meet international safety standards, offering a secure and comfortable driving experience for both the driver and passengers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | VinFast |
| Model | LUX SA |
| Generation | LUX SA |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (228 Hp) 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. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | 19 |
The VinFast LUX SA 2.0, while not widely known in the United States, represents a significant milestone for the Vietnamese automotive industry. It demonstrated VinFast’s commitment to producing modern, well-equipped vehicles and establishing a presence in the global automotive market. The vehicle’s blend of European-sourced technology, Italian design, and Vietnamese manufacturing ambition positioned it as a unique offering in its target markets.
