Dongfeng has announced an introductory price of $37,990 for its new pure-electric Vigo compact-SUV, valid until the end of April. After that it'll still be sub-$40k, with a $39,990 sticker.
The launch offer also includes a free optional Large Panoramic Moon Roof, valued at $1500, equating to a total saving of $3500.
“It’s exciting to be introducing this new model as it’s another example of Dongfeng breaking barriers to EV ownership," says Armstrong's Distribution chief executive Simon Rutherford.
Vigo has a 51kWh battery and delivers a WLTP range of 340km.
The interior is designed around what Dongfeng calls a "Rubik’s Cube" philosophy: the long 2715mm wheelbase helps with passenger space and the boot offers 500 litres capacity, which is large for the segment. A novel feature is a Range Rover-style split tailgate, the lower section capable of supporting 150kg.
Towing capacity is 750kg and there's a camping mode that manages power to maintain the cabin at 25deg while providing continuous power (even when locked).
Dongfeng is emphasising the Vigo's 5-star Vehicle Safety Risk Rating (VSRR) for New Zealand. Safety is a somewhat sensitive subject for the brand right now, following miscommunication about the official rating for the Box supermini.
Box was announced with a 3-star Euro NCAP score by Dongfeng in NZ, but it has since transpired that the Kiwi-market model lacks many of the features that are standard on the European car, including side/curtain airbags and advanced driver-monitoring features.
If NCAP/ANCAP data is not available for a local-market car, the NZ Government RightCar VSRR system gives an automatic 5-star rating to a new model, provided it has sufficient active and passive safety features (this is assesed by Monash University Accident Research Centre). VSRR has deemed the Box unrated ("no safety rating available").
Vigo has been granted the 5-star VSRR rating. The Vigo comes with six airbags, front and rear parking sensors plus 360-degree surround-view camera. ADAS features include AEB, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist and intelligent adaptive cruise control.
There are six exterior colours, including Twilight White (standard), Glacial Silver, Cyber Black, Sandy Yellow, Future Orange and Wild Green (all coloured paints are a $499 option). There are also two interior trims available, a no-cost option between Grey/Black or Beige/ Black.
Equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, leatherette trim, electric front seats, heated and ventilated driver’s seat with welcome function, wireless Apple CarPlay (Android Auto optional), wireless charging pad, 12.8-inch central touchscreen, 8.8in digital driver display, ambient lighting with 128 colours that react to music and an external speaker for out-of-vehicle use.
Vigo comes with a 6-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty, 8-year/200,000km battery warranty and 6-year roadside assistance.