The Philippine automotive industry is much more exciting with the brands that have rather eccentric names. Dongfeng is one such example, and it has just released a new model called the Vigo (not to be confused with the Toyota Wigo). Continuing with the colorful names, this model sits between the Nammi and the Forthing Friday.

So, what’s invigorating about this new EV on the block?

The Dongfeng Vigo is a subcompact crossover measuring 4,306mm by 1,868mm by 1,654mm, with a wheelbase of 2,715mm and a ground clearance of 190mm. This makes it similar in size to the BYD Atto 2 and the Kia EV3, which are both entry-level crossovers. The trunk features a two-part manual tailgate with 500L cargo space with the rear seats up.

The Vigo doesn’t skimp out on range. A full charge of the 51.78kWh lithium iron phosphate battery can go as far 471km, with a charging time as quick as 18 minutes (from 30% to 80%) via DC fast charging. This powers the 120kW electric motor, which packs a punch with 230Nm of torque.

Probably the most impressive figure for prospective owners is that a full charge will only cost P700—at least according to the brand.

The Vigo aims to strike a balance between affordability and luxury. This is evident in the interior, which has a moderate dose of bells and whistles.

Before you get in, you’ll need to unlock the doors with the key fob, which doubles as a fidget spinner that you could probably play around with while waiting in traffic. The door handles are misleading since they conceal a button that you need to press to open the door.

Step inside and you’ll be greeted with gray seats upholstered in PVC leather. The monochrome color scheme extends to the rest of the cabin giving it a utilitarian aesthetic, only to be broken by the ambient lighting on the door panels.

Eventually, your gaze will gravitate toward the 12.6-inch infotainment system, which has wireless Apple CarPlay, but no Android Auto. Meanwhile, the driver gets a slim 8.88-inch digital instrument cluster. There’s no need to look far for a place to rest your phone as a 50W wireless charging pad is situated at the center console.

The ADAS features of the Vigo include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, traffic-jam assist, and highway assist. There’s also a 360° panoramic camera to help you maneuver around tight spaces.

The Dongfeng Vigo goes for P1,458,000 with a vehicle warranty of five years (or 150,000km) and a battery warranty of eight years (or 170,000km). At that price, it’s aimed at first-time EV buyers who want a crossover that has enough road presence, while still being manageable in the city.

To learn more about the brand, you can visit the website of Dongfeng Motors Philippines.