GAC Aion RT: A Smart Alternative to Model 3

A New Contender in the Electric Sedan Market

On November 6, GAC officially launched the Aion RT, a pure electric sedan designed to compete in the mainstream market. Built on GAC’s advanced AEP 3.0 pure electric platform, the Aion RT blends modern design, strong performance, and cutting-edge technology to attract a broad audience.

Available in five trims, the Aion RT is priced between 119,800 and 165,800 yuan (approximately $16,350–$22,600), positioning it alongside competitors like the Xpeng Mona M03. In November alone, it recorded over 7,000 units sold in China, reflecting its growing popularity.

Our test vehicle, the 650 LiDAR trim, comes equipped with a 165 kW motor and a 68.1 kWh battery, offering an impressive 650 km range. It features 27 sensors, including a 126-line LiDAR and an NVIDIA Orin-X chip, enabling L2++ advanced driving assistance. Notable features include map-free navigation, memory parking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alerts. Performance-wise, it accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 7.7 seconds while maintaining energy efficiency at 11.9 kWh/100 km. The sedan supports 3C fast charging technology, allowing a 30% to 80% charge in just 18 minutes.

Sleek and Aerodynamic Exterior

The Aion RT showcases GAC’s “Velociraptor” design concept, featuring a streamlined body with an ultra-low drag coefficient of 0.208 Cd, improving efficiency and stability.

Its dimensions—4,865 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,520 mm in height—provide a well-balanced profile, while the 2,775 mm wheelbase ensures a spacious and comfortable cabin. The sleek silhouette not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its impressive aerodynamics.

Comfortable and Functional Interior

The Aion RT’s minimalist cabin prioritizes functionality and comfort. It comes with a 14.6-inch central touchscreen and an 8.8-inch digital instrument panel, offering an intuitive user experience. The high-quality materials and thoughtful layout add a touch of sophistication.

One standout feature is the fully reclining front seats, which can seamlessly connect with the rear seats to form a “big bed”—a unique touch for relaxation on long trips.

Comfort is further enhanced by heated and ventilated seats, which come standard across all trims. Other practical elements include air-conditioning vents, wireless charging pads, and generous storage space.

Smooth and Refined Driving Experience

The GAC Aion RT delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it ideal for daily commuting. The electric throttle response provides ample power for city driving, while precise steering ensures effortless maneuverability through tight urban streets.

On highways, the low drag coefficient and well-tuned chassis contribute to excellent stability, even at higher speeds. The suspension system absorbs road imperfections effectively, enhancing passenger comfort.

Noise insulation is another strong point, with minimal wind and road noise intrusion. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist work reliably, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys. The 165 kW motor prioritizes smooth power delivery over aggressive acceleration, and the sedan maintains good composure on winding roads with minimal body roll. However, steering feedback is muted, reinforcing its comfort-oriented nature.

While the adaptive cruise and lane-keeping systems performed well during testing, the LiDAR occasionally struggled in tight parking scenarios, indicating potential software refinements in future updates.

Final Verdict: A Well-Balanced EV for Everyday Use

The GAC Aion RT competes with the BYD Qin Plus, Xpeng Mona M03, and Tesla Model 3 in terms of size and price. While some rivals may offer more premium interiors or advanced autonomous features, the Aion RT strikes a balance between affordability, practicality, and modern technology.

With its spacious interior, extensive driver-assistance features, and competitive pricing, the Aion RT is an excellent choice for cost-conscious buyers looking for a well-rounded electric sedan. Designed with urban commuters and modern families in mind, it stands as a strong contender in the rapidly growing EV market.