Review: 2019 VinFast Fadil 1.4 (98 Hp) CVT

The 2019 VinFast Fadil is a compact hatchback that has been making waves in the automotive market, especially in Vietnam. Known for its affordability and practicality, the Fadil is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable city car. In this review, we'll delve into the features, performance, and overall suitability of the VinFast Fadil for different driving needs.

Understanding the Basics: Key Terms

Before we dive into the specifics, let's clarify some essential terms. The VinFast Fadil is a hatchback, which means it has a rear door that swings upward, providing easy access to the cargo area. It's powered by an internal combustion engine, which uses petrol (gasoline) to generate power. The engine is naturally aspirated, meaning it doesn't use a turbocharger or supercharger to increase power output.

The Fadil features a CVT, or continuously variable transmission, which is a type of automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a continuous range of gear ratios. This helps in providing a smooth driving experience and can improve fuel efficiency.

Performance and Specifications

The 2019 VinFast Fadil is equipped with a 1.4-liter engine that produces 98 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 128 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. This power is delivered to the front wheels, making it a front-wheel-drive vehicle. The Fadil's engine is an inline four-cylinder with a multi-port manifold injection system, which is a common and reliable setup for small cars.

In terms of dimensions, the Fadil measures 3676 mm in length, 1632 mm in width, and 1495 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2385 mm. It has a kerb weight ranging from 992 to 1005 kg, making it a lightweight vehicle that's easy to maneuver in tight city spaces.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

City Driving: The VinFast Fadil is particularly well-suited for city driving. Its compact size makes parking in urban environments a breeze, and the CVT provides a smooth ride in stop-and-go traffic. The electric power steering and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) enhance safety and handling, making it a reliable choice for daily commutes.

Long-Distance Travel: While the Fadil can handle highway speeds, its small engine and compact size might not be ideal for long road trips, especially with a full load of passengers and luggage. The car's fuel efficiency is a plus, but comfort might be compromised on longer journeys.

Family Use: With five seats and five doors, the Fadil can accommodate a small family. However, the limited trunk space might be a constraint for families needing to transport a lot of gear.

Single Ownership: For singles or couples, the Fadil offers a perfect balance of affordability, efficiency, and practicality. It's easy to drive and park, making it a great choice for first-time car buyers.

Adventure Lifestyles: The Fadil is not designed for off-road adventures or heavy-duty use. Its low ground clearance and front-wheel-drive setup limit its capability on rough terrains.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths: Compact size, fuel efficiency, affordability, easy maneuverability in cities.
Weaknesses: Limited power for long-distance travel, small trunk space, not suitable for off-road use.

Conclusion

The 2019 VinFast Fadil 1.4 (98 Hp) CVT is a practical and economical choice for city dwellers and small families. Its compact size and efficient engine make it ideal for urban environments, while its affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of buyers. However, those seeking a vehicle for long-distance travel or adventurous outings might need to look elsewhere. Think about what features matter most to you. Do you need extra cargo space or is city maneuverability your top priority?

Specifications Table

Attribute	Details
Brand	VinFast
Model	Fadil
Generation	Fadil
Modification (Engine)	1.4 (98 Hp) CVT
Powertrain Architecture	Internal Combustion engine
Body Type	Hatchback
Seats	5
Doors	5
Fuel Type	Petrol (Gasoline)
Power	98 Hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque	128 Nm @ 4400 rpm
Engine Layout	Front, Transverse
Number of Cylinders	4
Engine Configuration	Inline
Fuel Injection System	Multi-port manifold injection
Engine Aspiration	Naturally aspirated engine
Kerb Weight	992-1005 kg
Length	3676 mm
Width	1632 mm
Height	1495 mm
Wheelbase	2385 mm
Drive Wheel System	Front wheel drive
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)	Automatic transmission CVT
Front Suspension	Independent type McPherson
Rear Suspension	Dependent spring suspension
Assisting Systems	ABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power Steering	Electric Steering
Tire Size	185/55 R15
Wheel Rims Size	15