TEST Aion V. Over 500 km for less than 34,000 €
The Gac Aion V is 4.60 meters long, equipped with a 75 kWh LFP battery, offers 510 km of WLTP range, and can be charged at up to 180 kW. Most importantly, it starts at a price of 33,880 euros. This was our first contact to see if there’s more than just impressive specs behind it.
The Gac Aion V indeed has some interesting specifications. These figures, at least on paper, make it a particularly competitive option in one of the most crowded segments in the market today.
Simple design, without trying to be sporty
The lines are smooth, and the Gac Aion V doesn’t aim for overly aggressive looks. Yet its shape remains easily recognizable, especially thanks to a rather unique volume distribution, almost “boxy.” I personally appreciate this choice: finally, a car designed for everyday use that doesn’t necessarily feel the need to appear sporty.
The main concession to a more technological design is found in the front light signature, featuring two vertical LED elements that create an eye-like shape within the headlights.
On the sides, there are some elements suggesting a more adventurous style, especially in the lower part of the sculpted body panels and the roof bars. The door handles that run along the edge of the doors are also nice, maintaining an elegant look. The rear is likely the most elaborate section, with a two-level design and parallel vertical light elements as well. The integration of the license plate holder is very clean. The trunk offers 430 liters of capacity, which is average for its class, and this figure increases to over 1,600 liters when the rear seats are folded down.
Minimalism dominates the interior
The interior follows the same philosophy as the exterior: minimal visual clutter, smooth lines, and an overall sense of great comfort.
Physical buttons are reduced to a minimum, with all functions controlled through the 14.6-inch central display. The steering wheel is also very minimalist, featuring few controls, while a second 8.8-inch screen is located in front of the driver. This layout inevitably recalls the approach introduced by Tesla and now adopted by many Asian manufacturers.
The finishes give a good impression, and what’s particularly impressive is how the spaces are organized. The smartphone charging port, cup holders, and large central compartment don’t seem like added elements but rather part of a highly cohesive whole. It is this harmony that is one of the most successful aspects of the Gac Aion V’s interior.
75 kWh Battery and 180 kW Charging
Beneath the bodywork lies a 75 kWh LFP battery that powers a 150 kW front motor. The claimed range reaches 510 km, while the maximum charging power in DC mode is 180 kW. Gac claims less than 25 minutes to go from 10% to 80% charge.
The V2L function is also available, allowing the battery’s energy to be used to power external devices with a capacity of up to 3.3 kW.
Our first test drive was quite short and took place in urban areas and on rural roads. Therefore, we prefer not to assign too much weight to the fuel consumption figures recorded during this test: the distance covered is not sufficient to determine a truly representative consumption level.
In terms of standard equipment, the Gac Aion V comes with practically everything as standard, and its safety features are also top-notch, featuring level 2 ADAS. The Gac Aion V has also earned five stars in Euro NCAP tests.
Comfort takes the lead on the road
The driving experience immediately reveals the Gac Aion V’s focus: comfort over sportiness. The suspension is soft and handles irregularities well, but it isn’t overly relaxed either; even when driving faster, the force transmission remains moderate.
The acceleration is strong, as expected from an electric vehicle, but not overly aggressive. It covers 0-100 km/h in just under 8 seconds. The braking performance is also good, especially regarding its progressive nature and ease of modulation. What’s less convincing is the steering, which, while precise, isn’t very quick.
The real issue is the price
And here we’re probably at the most interesting point. An electric SUV of this size, with a 75 kWh battery, over 500 km of claimed range, 180 kW charging capability, and features and quality at this level, currently costs well over 40,000 euros, even though it’s a Chinese car. The GAC Aion V, on the other hand, starts at 33,880 euros.
And this is probably the factor that influences opinions about the car. The Gac Aion V doesn’t aim for sports car performance nor does it revolutionize the concept of electric SUVs. However, it offers plenty of space, comfort, a substantial battery, and comprehensive features at a remarkably competitive price. It’s already available for ordering at AutoTorino Group dealerships.
AION UT: 28,000 € and it really has nothing missing. Not even an Italian touch!
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