BYD Dolphin vs GAC Aion UT
Two electric Hatchbacks go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BYD Dolphin starts from $29,990 before on-road costs, while the GAC Aion UT opens at $31,990. That makes the BYD Dolphin the more affordable entry point by $2,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $32,989 and $35,189 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the BYD Dolphin and GAC Aion UT hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 89% for the BYD Dolphin and 88% for the GAC Aion UT.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GAC Aion UT packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 1 in the BYD Dolphin.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the BYD Dolphin and 7 in the GAC Aion UT.
Feature Showdown
The BYD Dolphin features a 12.8-inch touchscreen, while the GAC Aion UT gets a 14.6-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BYD Dolphin stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the GAC Aion UT. The GAC Aion UT counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and V2L. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BYD Dolphin uses a Electric producing 70kW and 180Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds.
The GAC Aion UT responds with a Electric making 150kW and 210Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds.
The GAC Aion UT has the clear power advantage at 150kW vs 70kW. In the real-world sprint, the GAC Aion UT is 3.2s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 44.9kWh (BYD Dolphin) vs 60kWh (GAC Aion UT), giving WLTP ranges of 340km and 430km. DC fast charging peaks at 60kW (BYD Dolphin) vs 87kW (GAC Aion UT).
Space & Comfort
The BYD Dolphin measures 4,290mm long on a 2,700mm wheelbase, 20mm longer than the GAC Aion UT at 4,270mm (2,750mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GAC Aion UT generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 308L in the BYD Dolphin and 321L in the GAC Aion UT, giving the GAC Aion UT a 13L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.4m to 11.2m
Based on 10.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Dolphin) vs 8 years / 150,000km (GAC Aion UT). The GAC Aion UT has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BYD Dolphin if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the GAC Aion UT if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer GAC's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GAC Aion UT takes 9 of 10 key spec categories. The GAC Aion UT adds peace of mind with a longer 8-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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