GAC Aion V vs Skoda Karoq
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
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 Skoda Karoq opens at $40,990. That makes the Skoda Karoq the more affordable entry point by $1,600.
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 $45,089 respectively.
The GAC Aion V qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Skoda Karoq, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the GAC Aion V and Skoda Karoq hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 88% for the GAC Aion V and 93% for the Skoda Karoq.
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 Skoda Karoq.
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 6 in the Skoda Karoq. The GAC Aion V adds a 360-degree camera that the Skoda Karoq misses.
Feature Showdown
The GAC Aion V features a 14.6-inch touchscreen paired with a 8.9-inch digital dash, while the Skoda Karoq gets a 8-inch display and 10.3-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 Skoda Karoq. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the GAC Aion V gets pvc upholstery while the Skoda Karoq offers cloth.
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 Skoda Karoq responds with a Petrol making 110kW and 250Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds.
The GAC Aion V has the clear power advantage at 150kW vs 110kW. In the real-world sprint, the Skoda Karoq is 0.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GAC Aion V measures 4,605mm long on a 2,775mm wheelbase, 223mm longer than the Skoda Karoq at 4,382mm (2,638mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GAC Aion V generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 427L in the GAC Aion V and 521L in the Skoda Karoq, giving the Skoda Karoq a 94L 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 7 years / 999,999km (Skoda Karoq). The GAC Aion V has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GAC Aion V if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer GAC's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Skoda Karoq if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Skoda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Skoda Karoq takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Skoda Karoq 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, GAC Aion V and Skoda Karoq?
The Skoda Karoq is the cheapest at $40,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the GAC Aion V by $1,600.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Skoda Karoq uses the least fuel at 6.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — GAC Aion V and Skoda Karoq all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Skoda Karoq has the largest boot at 521L.
Which can tow the most?
The Skoda Karoq 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.
Which is the most powerful?
The GAC Aion V makes the most power at 150kW. The Skoda Karoq is quickest to 100km/h in 8.6s.
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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