GAC Aion V vs Hyundai Kona Electric
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 Hyundai Kona Electric opens at $40,500. That makes the Hyundai Kona Electric the more affordable entry point by $2,090.
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 $44,550 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 Hyundai Kona Electric hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the GAC Aion V and 80% for the Hyundai Kona Electric.
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 5 in the Hyundai Kona Electric.
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 Hyundai Kona Electric. The GAC Aion V adds a 360-degree camera that the Hyundai Kona Electric misses.
Feature Showdown
The GAC Aion V features a 14.6-inch touchscreen paired with a 8.9-inch digital dash, while the Hyundai Kona Electric gets a 12.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GAC Aion V stands out with Apple CarPlay, panoramic roof, ventilated seats and power tailgate that you will not find on the Hyundai Kona Electric. The Hyundai Kona Electric counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
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 Hyundai Kona Electric responds with a Electric making 99kW and 255Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.9 seconds.
The GAC Aion V has the clear power advantage at 150kW vs 99kW. In the real-world sprint, the GAC Aion V is 0.9s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 75.3kWh (GAC Aion V) vs 48.4kWh (Hyundai Kona Electric), giving WLTP ranges of 510km and 395km. DC fast charging peaks at 180kW (GAC Aion V) vs 75kW (Hyundai Kona Electric).
Space & Comfort
The GAC Aion V measures 4,605mm long on a 2,775mm wheelbase, 255mm longer than the Hyundai Kona Electric at 4,350mm (2,660mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GAC Aion V generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 427L in the GAC Aion V and 361L in the Hyundai Kona Electric, giving the GAC Aion V a 66L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m 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 10.6m 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 5 years / 999,999km (Hyundai Kona Electric). The GAC Aion V has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GAC Aion V if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer GAC's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Hyundai Kona Electric if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GAC Aion V takes 8 of 10 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the GAC Aion V has a clear edge. 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.
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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