Update: Specifications and Price & Release Date revised.
Chinese automaker GAC has introduced the Aion brand in the UK, with the Aion V becoming its first model in the market.
Not long ago, we had a chance to check out the new compact SUV in person in a global specification to see if it holds up to UK standards in comfort, utility, and style. Here’s what we found:
Design
Defying modern EV-typical design trends like a coupe-inspired roofline and covered aero-optimised wheels, the Aion V aims for a proper SUV appearance. Its strong and upright front end features muscular surfaces and angular headlamps.
A covered upper grille area stands out against the SUV’s rugged styling, and the functional grille in the lower section shuts off when not needed to reduce aero drag.
On the sides, the 19-inch alloy wheels feature a multi-spoke design and are generously exposed to match the vehicle’s outdoorsy styling. The raised roof rails form another interesting design bit that we rarely get to see on electric SUVs.
The swift kick in the beltline towards the end of the door and flush-integrated door handles lend a contemporary look. The rear also carries a confident, old-school design with a nearly upright posture and vertical tail lamps with C-shaped light signatures.
Interior
The interior of the Aion V follows a familiar Chinese EV playbook, with a minimalist layout, controlled by a highly digital interface. A slim dashboard integrates an illuminated decorative strip that adds visual pop to an otherwise normal cabin. Gloss black surfaces and chrome accents have been applied sparingly across the interior.
GAC equips the Aion V with features like electrically adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, heated reclining rear seats, a full-length panoramic roof, wireless smartphone charging, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, and a dual-zone climate control system.
Experience in the GAC Aion V
At 5’7”, ingress into the Aion V was straightforward. Once I settled into the driver’s seat, headroom was generous, and the lumbar support felt supportive.
Under-thigh support, however, could have been better, as the seat cushion felt slightly shorter than ideal. This also highlighted that the floor, while flat, sits a bit higher than expected. Egress stood out positively, as unlocking the car signals the driver’s seat to slide back automatically, creating more space to step out.
Rear-seat access was equally easy. Headroom was aplenty, with more than six inches to spare, and the seating position remained comfortable despite the slightly raised floor. Knee room was excellent, and overall legroom was good, although passengers who are taller than I am may find limited space to slide their feet under the front seats.
The backrest felt quite supportive, especially with the extensive recline function. The compact SUV features a completely flat floor, which makes sliding out of either side of the vehicle easy.
Features for the rear passengers are basic but functional. In the car we experienced, there was a single USB Type-A port, a touch-operated climate control panel, and two air vents integrated into the B-pillars. A fold-out centre armrest includes two cupholders and a slim storage tray suitable for small items or snacks.
Specifications
The Aion V is 4,605 mm long, 1,854 mm wide, and 1,686 mm tall and has a 2,775 mm wheelbase. GAC manufactures it only in front-wheel drive, and in the UK, the company has confirmed a 75.3 kWh LFP battery pack delivering a WLTP range of 317 miles.
The powertrain puts out 150 kW (204 PS) and 240 Nm, and has a top speed of 99 mph, with a 0-62 mph time of 7.9 seconds. With a DC charging power of 180 kW, GAC says the Aion V can charge from 30-80 percent in 18 minutes. With the 11 kW AC charger, it takes 8.5 hours to go from 0% to 100% SoC.
It has a boot capacity of 427L with the rear seat in place, and a roof load of 75 kg.
Release Date & Price
Aion Auto UK has officially announced pricing and opened pre-orders for the Aion V. The car will reach dealers in late May.
The Aion V is priced from GBP 36,450 OTR in the UK. Buyers can also opt for a Premium Pack priced at GBP 1,495, which adds leather upholstery, massage front seats, a 6.6-litre CoolHot Box, and a rear tray table.
Since 2014, I’ve worked as an international automotive editor, attending global motor shows, industry events, media drives, and tracking the latest developments across the sector, with a particular focus on electrified vehicles.
