AION V: Discovering the Electric Twin of Toyota’s BZ3X
In the world of electric vehicles, collaborations often produce some of the most interesting results. The AION V is a prime example. Known in China as the platform sibling to the Toyota BZ3X, this electric SUV brings a blend of Japanese-influenced engineering and GAC’s cutting-edge EV technology. In his latest review, Ridwan Hanif takes the AION V for a spin to see if it lives up to its “Toyota Twin” reputation.
Pricing and Variants in Indonesia The AION V is positioned competitively in the Indonesian market with two main variants:
- Exclusive: Starting at Rp449 million, offering a range of 505 km (NEDC).
- Luxury: Priced at Rp489 million, featuring a larger 75 kWh battery with a massive 602 km range (NEDC)[02:12]. These prices make it a strong competitor against the likes of the Omoda E5 and other mid-range electric SUVs.
Unmatched Comfort and Suspension One of the standout features of the AION V is its ride quality. Ridwan Hanif notes that the suspension is perhaps the best in its class, offering a mature and balanced feel that handles bumps and highway speeds with exceptional stability [16:57]. Unlike some other EVs that feel “bouncy,” the AION V provides a premium, “Toyota-like” handling experience with a steering feel that is natural and weighted [17:34].
Interior Luxury and Unique Features The AION V doesn’t just stop at driving dynamics; the interior is packed with features usually reserved for luxury cars:
- Built-in Refrigerator & Freezer: Located in the center console, it can reach temperatures as low as -15°C and even function as a heater. It can stay active for up to 24 hours after the driver leaves the car [09:48].
- Spacious Cabin: The rear legroom and headroom are immense, drawing comparisons to the Hyundai Ioniq 5. The Luxury trim even includes fold-out tables for rear passengers [09:30].
- Advanced Seats: The front seats are equipped with heating, ventilation, and a massage function [13:32].
Performance and Practicality Equipped with a front-mounted motor producing 203 PS and 240 Nm of torque, the AION V can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8 seconds [20:46]. For added peace of mind, it is one of the few electric SUVs to include a spare tire (space saver) tucked under the large 400+ liter cargo area [05:29].
The Verdict The AION V is more than just a rebadged EV. It is a highly comfortable, feature-rich family SUV that offers incredible range for under Rp500 million. While the touchscreen-heavy interface might take some time to master, its superior suspension and unique “fridge” feature make it a compelling choice for those skeptical of new EV brands.
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