Dongfeng VIGO aims for EV SUV value leadership

Dongfeng Motor is launching the VIGO electric SUV in New Zealand with a $37,990 launch price, positioning it as the best-value EV SUV in the local market when deliveries begin in February 2026.

The compact electric SUV will be available at the introductory price until the end of April 2026, after which it will retail for $39,990 plus on-road costs. The launch offer also includes a free panoramic moon roof valued at $1500, bringing the total launch value to $3500.

That puts it line-ball with the entry-level Atto 2 on price, but the Dongfeng trumps it on size and spec. The MGS5 EV is similar in size, but more expensive.

“The first shipment of the new VIGO is about to land in the country, so Kiwi customers who wish to be amongst the first to own a new VIGO should contact a Dongfeng dealer now,” says Simon Rutherford, chief executive of Armstrong’s Distribution Limited, Dongfeng’s New Zealand distributor.

Charging leads the value proposition

The VIGO is powered by a 51kWh battery delivering a WLTP driving range of 340km. The vehicle supports DC fast charging at up to 167kW – outstanding performance in the compact SUV class – enabling 30–80% charging in 18 minutes. The model also includes Vehicle-to-Load capability for powering external devices.

The VIGO follows the successful launch of Dongfeng’s BOX model and represents the brand’s continued push to achieve price parity between electric vehicles (EVs) and internal combustion engine vehicles across multiple segments.

“It’s exciting to be introducing this new model as it’s another example of Dongfeng breaking barriers to EV ownership,” Rutherford says. “With the launch of VIGO, there is no other small SUV in the market which offers this combination of premium features plus legroom and boot space without compromise.”

Despite measuring 4306mm long, 1868mm wide and 1654mm high, the VIGO offers a 2715mm wheelbase and 500-litre boot capacity. The vehicle can accommodate five people and features a double split tailgate with 150kg load capacity – described as unique in the EV segment.

Additional practical features include roof rails, 750kg towing capacity, and a camping mode that maintains the cabin at 25°C while providing continuous power when locked.

Safety and standard features

The VIGO has received a five-star Vehicle Safety Risk Rating from NZTA, which while not a crash test assesses vehicles against others of similar size and specification. The model comes standard with six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. Level two advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) include autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist and intelligent adaptive cruise control.

Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, leatherette trim, electric front seats, heated and ventilated driver’s seat, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless charging pad, 12.8-inch central touchscreen, 8.8-inch digital driver display, and ambient lighting with 128 colours that react to music.

Buyers can choose from six exterior colours including standard Twilight White, with Glacial Silver, Cyber Black, Sandy Yellow, Future Orange and Wild Green available for $499. Two interior trim options are available at no additional cost: Grey/Black or Beige/Black.

Warranty and availability

The VIGO is backed by a six-year/200,000km vehicle warranty, eight-year/200,000km battery warranty, and six-year roadside assistance.

Armstrong’s Distribution operates Dongfeng dealerships in Auckland (Greenlane), Wellington (Lower Hutt), and Christchurch (Central City). Customers can register interest and secure orders now ahead of the February 2026 delivery timeline.

“VIGO makes premium features and real SUV versatility accessible,” Rutherford says. “This is about removing barriers and making EV ownership genuinely appealing.”

Dongfeng Motor, founded 56 years ago, is one of China’s largest automotive groups, selling more than 2.5 million vehicles annually across 100-plus countries. The company has global partnerships with Honda, Nissan, Peugeot and Citroën, and is investing over $14 billion in research and development for new energy vehicles.