GAC Aion V vs BYD Atto 3
Two electric SUVs 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 V starts from $42,590 before on-road costs, while the BYD Atto 3 opens at $39,990. That makes the BYD Atto 3 the more affordable entry point by $2,600.
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 $46,849 and $43,989 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 V and BYD Atto 3 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the GAC Aion V and 82% for the BYD Atto 3.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GAC Aion V packs more ADAS features with 9 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the BYD Atto 3.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the GAC Aion V and 7 in the BYD Atto 3. The GAC Aion V adds a 360-degree camera that the BYD Atto 3 misses.
Feature Showdown
The GAC Aion V features a 14.6-inch touchscreen paired with a 8.9-inch digital dash, while the BYD Atto 3 gets a 12.8-inch display and 5-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GAC Aion V stands out with wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats, ventilated seats, power tailgate and V2L that you will not find on the BYD Atto 3. The BYD Atto 3 counters with Dirac audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the GAC Aion V gets pvc upholstery while the BYD Atto 3 offers synthetic leather. Climate control is 2-zone in the GAC Aion V and 1-zone in the BYD Atto 3.
Drivetrain
The GAC Aion V 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 9 seconds.
The BYD Atto 3 responds with a Electric making 150kW and 310Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds.
Power output is identical on paper, so the difference comes down to tuning, weight distribution, and suspension. In the real-world sprint, the BYD Atto 3 is 1.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 75.3kWh (GAC Aion V) vs 49.9kWh (BYD Atto 3), giving WLTP ranges of 510km and 345km. DC fast charging peaks at 180kW (GAC Aion V) vs 80kW (BYD Atto 3).
Space & Comfort
The GAC Aion V measures 4,605mm long on a 2,775mm wheelbase, 150mm longer than the BYD Atto 3 at 4,455mm (2,720mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GAC Aion V generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 427L in the GAC Aion V and 440L in the BYD Atto 3, giving the BYD Atto 3 a 13L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m 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 11.0m 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 V) vs 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Atto 3). The GAC Aion V has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GAC Aion V if: You value a longer warranty, or prefer GAC's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BYD Atto 3 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GAC Aion V takes 6 of 10 key spec categories. The GAC Aion V 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, GAC Aion V and BYD Atto 3?
The BYD Atto 3 is the cheapest at $39,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the GAC Aion V by $2,600.
Which has the longest driving range?
The GAC Aion V has the most range at 510km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The GAC Aion V accepts the highest DC charging at up to 180kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — GAC Aion V and BYD Atto 3 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The BYD Atto 3 has the largest boot at 440L.
Which can tow the most?
The BYD Atto 3 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The GAC Aion V has the longest warranty at 8 years / 150k km.
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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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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