GAC Aion UT vs BYD Dolphin
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 GAC Aion UT starts from $31,990 before on-road costs, while the BYD Dolphin opens at $29,990. 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 $35,189 and $32,989 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 GAC Aion UT and BYD Dolphin hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the GAC Aion UT and 89% for the BYD Dolphin.
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 GAC Aion UT and 7 in the BYD Dolphin.
Feature Showdown
The GAC Aion UT features a 14.6-inch touchscreen, while the BYD Dolphin gets a 12.8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GAC Aion UT stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and V2L that you will not find on the BYD Dolphin. The BYD Dolphin counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GAC Aion UT uses a Electric producing 150kW and 210Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds.
The BYD Dolphin responds with a Electric making 70kW and 180Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 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: 60kWh (GAC Aion UT) vs 44.9kWh (BYD Dolphin), giving WLTP ranges of 430km and 340km. DC fast charging peaks at 87kW (GAC Aion UT) vs 60kW (BYD Dolphin).
Space & Comfort
The GAC Aion UT measures 4,270mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 20mm shorter than the BYD Dolphin at 4,290mm (2,700mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GAC Aion UT generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 321L in the GAC Aion UT and 308L in the BYD Dolphin, 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 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.4m 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: 8 years / 150,000km (GAC Aion UT) vs 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Dolphin). The GAC Aion UT has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
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.
Buy the BYD Dolphin if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer BYD'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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