The GAC Aion V, a fully electric SUV assembled in Austria, debuts in Spain with standout design, a spacious interior, and an unusual central console that can both freeze and heat. Its competitive price and high equipment level set it apart in a crowded market.
GAC has launched the Aion V in Spain, introducing a new contender to the electric SUV segment with a blend of distinctive design, practical features, and aggressive pricing. Unlike most Chinese brands, the Aion V is manufactured in Austria at Magna Steyr's Graz facility, a detail that may appeal to European buyers seeking quality assurance.
Measuring 4,605 mm in length, 1,854 mm in width, and 1,686 mm in height, with a 2,775 mm wheelbase, the Aion V offers a roomy cabin and a flat floor for rear passengers. The exterior stands out with lighting elements inspired by dragon claws and 19-inch alloy wheels said to evoke the limbs of a Tyrannosaurus Rex, the result of a collaboration between designers from China, the US, and Italy.
Inside, the dashboard is minimalist, with almost no physical buttons. An 8.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen dominate the cockpit. The two-spoke steering wheel retains traditional controls, and the system supports wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 50W wireless charging pad with active cooling. Voice assistant functionality is available, though currently only in English.
One of the most unusual features is found in the top-tier Luxury trim: a central console that doubles as a heater and freezer, capable of chilling down to -15ºC or heating up to 50ºC. The front seats can fully recline to form a flat bed, while the passenger seatback in the Luxury version includes a sturdy, airplane-style tray table.
Rear access is made easy by doors that open nearly 90 degrees, and the generous headroom and legroom are complemented by a completely flat floor. The boot offers 427 liters of cargo space, expanding to 978 liters with the rear seats folded—figures that are adequate, though not class-leading for the segment.
Performance and Range
The Aion V is powered by a single 150 kW (204 hp) electric motor on the front axle, delivering 210 Nm of torque. Weighing 1,955 kg, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. The 75.26 kWh LFP battery provides up to 510 km of range on the combined cycle and up to 708 km in urban conditions, according to official figures.
Charging is another strong point: the battery supports up to 180 kW DC fast charging, allowing a 10% to 80% top-up in just 24 minutes. For AC charging, the maximum is 11 kW, with a full charge taking around 8.5 hours. The Aion V also features V2L (vehicle-to-load) capability, enabling it to power external devices—a function increasingly sought after in modern EVs.
Equipment and Pricing
GAC keeps the lineup simple with two trims: Premium and Luxury. Even the entry-level Premium comes well-equipped, offering electric, heated, and ventilated front seats, a panoramic glass roof spanning 2.14 m², 19-inch alloy wheels, and a heated steering wheel. The Luxury trim adds the unique heater/freezer console and the fold-out tray table for the front passenger.
With all available discounts, including Plan Auto+ and CAES, the Premium starts at €28,195, while the Luxury is priced at €30,795. Without incentives, prices rise to €37,995 and €40,595, respectively. This positions the Aion V as a strong value proposition, especially when compared to rivals like the MG S6, which also targets the family EV market with a focus on range and practicality—as seen in recent launches.
Context and Outlook
The arrival of the GAC Aion V reflects the growing influence of Chinese automakers in Europe, but its Austrian assembly and unique features may help it stand out in a crowded field. The combination of long range, fast charging, and practical extras like the central freezer/heater could appeal to buyers looking for something different. As the Spanish EV market continues to expand, models like the Aion V are likely to intensify competition, especially in the affordable family SUV segment.
For context, the European electric vehicle market has seen a surge in new entrants, with Chinese brands increasingly opting for local assembly to meet quality expectations and regulatory requirements. The Aion V's pricing strategy and equipment levels suggest GAC is aiming to disrupt established players, offering a compelling alternative for those prioritizing value and innovation.
