Introduction
The Aion V marks a significant step for the Aion brand as it makes its debut in the UK market. This electric family SUV is positioned to compete in one of the most competitive segments of the electric vehicle (EV) landscape. The car comes with a unique value proposition known as the Great 8 ownership package, which includes eight years of warranty, servicing, roadside assistance, and MOT coverage. These features are designed to provide long-term cost savings and peace of mind for owners.
Key Features and Competition
The Aion V faces stiff competition from well-established models such as the Skoda Elroq, Kia EV3, and Renault Scenic. These vehicles have already gained a reputation for understanding what British EV buyers expect: decent range, quick charging, ample space, user-friendly technology, reasonable pricing, and a reliable dealer experience. While Aion may not yet be a household name in the UK, the company is part of GAC, one of China’s largest automotive manufacturers. This backing suggests that the Aion V is not just a hastily developed product but one with substantial engineering and design support.
Inside the Aion V, the cabin stands out as a major surprise. It feels upmarket, with high-quality materials, smart details, plush seats, and touches that suggest a more expensive vehicle. The Aion V is available in a single version, offering a 75.3kWh battery, a claimed range of 317 miles, 201bhp, front-wheel drive, and rapid charging at up to 180kW. Despite its strong specifications, the Aion V presents a mixed driving experience.
Driving Experience and Design
While the Aion V’s interior is impressive, its exterior styling is less appealing. The design is boxy and somewhat awkward, with some unusual design elements like the chequered flag motif on the C-pillar and piano black wheel arch surrounds. These details make the 19-inch wheels appear smaller than they are, which detracts from the overall aesthetic. However, the car is not ugly, just not particularly attractive.
On the road, the Aion V offers a mixed driving experience. The steering is weighted and provides a good sense of control, while the performance is brisk enough for everyday use. However, the ride is firmer than expected for a family SUV, making it uncomfortable over rough roads. This firmness may be a trade-off for better handling, but comfort should be the priority in a family vehicle.
Technology and Infotainment
The Aion V is equipped with a large 14.6-inch central touchscreen and an 8.9-inch digital driver display. The infotainment system is user-friendly compared to many Chinese brands, with shortcut icons along the bottom of the screen that make basic functions easier to access. Wireless Apple CarPlay works well, and Android Auto is also included. The smartphone app allows owners to monitor battery charge, schedule charging, and even pre-condition the cabin.
Safety features are comprehensive, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, and a 360-degree camera. However, there are a few disappointments, such as a very quiet indicator and an average stereo system. Despite these issues, the overall tech experience is strong, with clear screens, sensible layouts, and effective driver assistance systems.
Practicality and Interior Space
The Aion V excels in terms of practicality and interior space. The cabin feels more premium than expected, with high-quality materials and thoughtful design details. The front seats are heated and ventilated, with electric adjustment for both occupants and memory for the driver. Rear passengers also get heated seats, and the Premium Pack adds leather upholstery, a front seat massage function, and a CoolHot Box for keeping drinks cool or warm.
Space is excellent, with plenty of legroom in the back and reclining rear seats that create a relaxed, lounge-like feel. The boot is also spacious, with 427 litres of capacity when the rear seats are up and 1,638 litres when folded. The three-tier boot floor system adds flexibility for storing items, and the wide opening makes loading easier.
Pricing and Ownership
The Aion V is priced at £36,450, which places it in the heart of the electric family SUV market. While it is not cheap, it comes with a substantial amount of equipment as standard. The Great 8 ownership package includes eight years of warranty, servicing, roadside assistance, and MOT coverage, making it a compelling offer for long-term owners.
Running costs are helped by the Aion V’s efficiency, with an official figure of around 3.7 miles per kWh. Charging at home, especially on cheaper overnight tariffs, can lead to significant savings. The ownership package is particularly valuable, as it transfers with the car, providing continued benefits for used buyers.
Final Verdict
The Aion V is a strong first effort from a brand that most UK buyers will still be getting to know. It excels in several areas, including interior quality, space, and equipment. The Great 8 ownership package is a standout feature, offering long-term reassurance and value. However, the Aion V is not without its flaws, including awkward exterior styling, a subpar stereo, and a firm ride that may not suit all drivers.
Despite these shortcomings, the Aion V deserves attention, especially for those who prioritize cabin quality, space, and long-term ownership benefits. If you value these aspects and are willing to test the car on your usual roads, the Aion V could be a worthwhile choice.
Rivals
- Skoda Elroq
- Kia EV3
- Renault Scenic
FAQs
How long does it take to charge?
The Aion V offers up to 317 miles of range from its 75.3kWh battery, with 180kW DC fast charging allowing a 10–80% top-up in 24 minutes.
How much does it cost – is it worth it?
At £36,450, the Aion V is not cheap, but it comes with lots of equipment, strong range, fast charging, and an impressive eight-year warranty, servicing, and roadside assistance package.
Does Aion replace batteries for free?
The Aion V comes with an eight-year or 100,000-mile vehicle warranty and an eight-year or 125,000-mile battery warranty.
Why Trust Us
Our team of motoring experts has decades of experience driving, reviewing, and reporting on the latest EV cars. Our verdicts are reached with every kind of driver in mind. We thoroughly test drive every car we recommend, so you can be sure our verdicts are honest, unbiased, and authentic.
With more than 30 years of experience, Steve Fowler is one of the UK’s best-known automotive journalists. Steve has interviewed key industry figures, from Tesla’s Elon Musk to Ford’s Jim Farley, and is a judge for both Germany’s and India’s Car of the Year Awards, as well as being a director of World Car of the Year. When it comes to electric vehicles, Steve reviews all the latest models for The Independent as they launch, from Abarth to Zeekr, and he uses his expert knowledge of car buyers’ needs to provide a comprehensive verdict.
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