For buyers in the 10,000–15,000 USD SUV segment, two things matter most: saving money and avoiding range anxiety. That’s exactly why extended-range EVs have become a hot choice in this price bracket. Now, GAC Aion has officially launched its first dual-power model — the AION i60, available in both pure electric and extended-range versions.
What makes it even more impressive is that the “StarSource Extended-Range System,” originally used in the 200,000+ RMB Hyper HL, is now equipped on a compact SUV priced under 15,000 USD. Very rare, very aggressive.
So, how does this “AION V T-Rex’s little brother” perform? After a full test drive — here’s the answer.
🚘 Exterior: Larger Size, Sharper Lines — Not the Same Design Style as the T-Rex
Although the AION i60 shares the family name with the AION V (nicknamed the “T-Rex”), the design direction is completely different.
The new i60 adopts a sharper and more structured design language, with an additional 105 mm in body length, giving the vehicle a more stable and premium look. Proportions appear more stretched and refined.
Two key differences between EV and EREV versions:
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Charging port location:
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EV: front right
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EREV: rear left
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Side badge:
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EREV: “REEV”
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EV: “EV”
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A full-width tail light design complements the front fascia, giving the SUV high recognition and a consistent modern EV aesthetic.
🔋 Range: 210 km Pure Electric + 1,240 km Total — No More Range Anxiety
The AION i60 extended-range version delivers:
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210 km CLTC all-electric range
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1,240 km combined range
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Supports 6 kW V2L external power supply
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Supports V2V vehicle-to-vehicle charging
This makes the i60 suitable for commuting, travel, and outdoor camping without worrying about power sources.
The pure electric version offers up to 650 km CLTC range — ideal for users who prefer full-electric driving.
🛋 Interior & Space: Longer Body = Noticeably Roomier Cabin
Thanks to the 105 mm increase in length, interior space is significantly improved. The cabin design remains clean and modern, with upgraded materials, better storage layout, and an overall airier feel.
The design language follows current EV trends: minimalistic, futuristic, and comfortable.
🚗 Driving Experience: Rare in This Class — Front MacPherson + Rear 5-Link Independent Suspension
In the 10–15k USD SUV segment, a five-link rear independent suspension is uncommon. This setup gives the i60 clear advantages in comfort and stability compared to the more common torsion-beam layouts.
Driving characteristics:
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Soft initial suspension tuning filters out small bumps well
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Stable body control over continuous uneven roads
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Some body roll during sharp turns, but within expectations for a family-oriented SUV
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Light steering suitable for daily city use
The driving feel leans toward comfort rather than sportiness — exactly what a family SUV should be.
🔧 StarSource Extended-Range System: Quiet, Smooth, and No Power Drop When Battery Is Low
Extended-range models traditionally suffer from:
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Loud generator noise
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High fuel consumption when battery is low
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Weak performance in "low state of charge"
To test improvements, we focused on noise, vibration, and power when electricity was nearly exhausted.
The StarSource system improves NVH by:
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Reducing engine RPM fluctuations
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Optimizing motor electromagnetic force
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Redesigning system coordination logic
In real driving:
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Engine vibration is minimal when it starts
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Noise is well-controlled
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No “shutdown shudder”
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Most importantly: no obvious power drop even when battery is low
When remaining electric range hit about 30 km (CLTC), the engine kicked in smoothly and power delivery stayed stable — avoiding the common “strong with battery, weak without battery” syndrome.
🧩 Conclusion: AION i60 Is a New Value King Among Budget Extended-Range SUVs
As GAC Aion’s first extended-range SUV, the i60 brings remarkable strengths:
It is highly suitable for families wanting an economical, comfortable SUV without range anxiety.
