2024 GAC Aion Y Plus Elite Review

Recently, the competition in Malaysia's B-segment pure electric SUV market has been heating up. Consumers demand practicality for daily commuting while also hoping for a balance between features and driving range. The GAC Aion Y Plus Elite emerges as a new choice in this segment with a price of RM 119,800, an official range of 430km, and comprehensive safety features as its core highlights. In this test drive, we will focus on verifying if its actual performance meets the daily needs of family users and whether its driving dynamics can satisfy a combination of urban and suburban scenarios.

In terms of appearance, the Aion Y Plus Elite features an overall rounded and full-bodied design. The front face adopts a closed design paired with a through-type LED daytime running light, while the split LED headlights on both sides have a sharp design and are highly recognizable when lit. The side profile of the vehicle has smooth lines, and the concave design below the doors adds a sense of layering. The 17-inch wheels have a standard design but are well-proportioned to the car body. At the rear, the through-type LED tail lights echo the front design, and the rear fog lights are located at the bottom of the bumper. The overall rear design gives a wider visual impression, complemented by the rugged feel of an SUV.

Stepping inside, the interior adopts a minimalist style, with the dashboard covered in soft-touch materials that provide a decent tactile feel. The 10.25-inch fully digital instrument panel offers clear displays, making it easy to see vehicle information, range, speed, and more. The 14.6-inch central touchscreen is slightly angled toward the driver, and its operation logic is simple. The 6-speaker audio system from Bongiovi offers mid-to-high-level sound quality among similar models. The front seats support six-way electric adjustment, with cushioning that is moderately firm, ensuring comfort even for long drives. The rear seats are split-foldable in a 60:40 configuration, allowing expansion of the trunk space to accommodate items like baby strollers or suitcases without issues. Additionally, the rear row is equipped with independent air-conditioning vents, and the front features single-zone automatic air conditioning. Power outlets in both the front and rear rows meet the charging needs of electronic devices. In terms of space, the car’s 2750mm wheelbase provides ample legroom in the rear seats. A passenger 1.75 meters tall will have two fists of space between their knees and the front seats, with an extra one fist of headroom, overall satisfying the needs of family users.

In the powertrain department, the Aion Y Plus Elite is equipped with a front-mounted single motor generating a maximum power of 204 PS and a peak torque of 225 Nm, with an official 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 8.5 seconds. During daily driving, the acceleration response is quick at start, delivering a noticeable push-back sensation with light throttle input. The power output is smooth during low to mid-speed overtaking maneuvers and feels unobtrusive. There are three driving modes to choose from: Eco, Standard, and Sport. In Eco mode, the power output is softer, suitable for urban commuting, while in Sport mode, throttle response becomes more sensitive, making it well-suited for suburban highways. The suspension system consists of a front MacPherson independent setup and a rear torsion beam non-independent setup. While the suspension absorbs most vibrations from speed bumps or slightly uneven roads in the city, the rear can experience noticeable bouncing over larger potholes. The steering feels light, and the directional accuracy is commendable. Body roll is kept within a reasonable range when cornering, offering decent flexibility for everyday driving.

In terms of range, we drove 50km in congested urban areas and 50km on suburban expressways, with the air conditioning and music on throughout the journey. The energy consumption was approximately 15.2kWh/100km, which, based on a battery capacity of 63.2kWh, results in an actual range of about 415km, achieving a rate of nearly 96% and performing consistently. In the braking performance test, the braking distance from 100km/h to a complete stop was about 38 meters, meeting the average level of vehicles in the same class. Regarding noise control, the interior remains relatively quiet below 60km/h, while wind noise becomes gradually noticeable above 80km/h, though it does not affect normal conversations. The energy recovery system offers two adjustable levels: the lower level provides a coasting feel similar to fuel vehicles, while the higher level has a more noticeable drag feel, suitable for users accustomed to one-pedal driving mode.

Overall, the core advantages of the Aion Y Plus Elite lie in its balanced features and spaciousness: configurations like six airbags, 360-degree panoramic imaging, and a 14.6-inch central control screen are outstanding within its price range. The 2750mm wheelbase ensures a roomy rear seating area, making it suitable for family users. Compared to the BYD Atto 3 in the same segment, the Aion Y Plus Elite has an advantage in terms of the number of safety airbags and rear space. Its price is also slightly lower, offering exceptional value for money. It is ideal for family users who value balanced space, features, and range. It can meet the needs of daily commuting or short weekend trips. If you are considering a pure electric SUV for the first time and have a budget of around 120,000 MYR, the Aion Y Plus Elite is worth adding to your shortlist.