The sub-P1.1 million BEV range is heating up with the latest batch of models released in the second quarter of this year. We finally have a growing number of affordable electric vehicle options in size segments that were once the domain of internal combustion models.
For this feature, our focus is on GAC’s Aion UT, the Chinese automaker’s segment-defying big-small electric hatchback. We’ll be pitting the UT against Geely’s new EX2 subcompact hatchback. Let’s see how these two new entries into the local EV market stack up.
The Aion UT measures 4,270mm long, 1,850mm wide, and 1,575mm tall. This makes it 135mm longer, 45mm wider, and 5mm lower than the EX2. The GAC rides on a long 2,750mm wheelbase, 100mm greater between the axles than the Geely. The Aion UT has 147mm of ground clearance, which is 15mm less than that of the EX2. The GAC rolls on 26.2-inch-diameter 215/60 R16 tires; this is half an inch taller than the EX2 Max’s 25.7-inch-diameter 205/60 R16 rubber. The GAC has a 440-liter rear cargo area, 65 liters larger than the Geely’s. The EX2 does get the advantage of having a 70-liter front trunk. Looking at the side comparo images, you can clearly see the Aion UT’s stretched-out body and extremely short overhangs that give it a distinct silhouette.
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Bonus comparison: The Aion UT is 125mm shorter, 8mm wider, and 26mm taller than the MG 4 Urban. The small electric GAC rides on a wheelbase that is identical to MG’s larger compact electric hatchback.
Here’s a quick overview of the two main featured vehicles. The Aion UT is GAC’s large-small BEV hatchback; it’s halfway between the subcompact and compact segments. It has a front-mounted 134hp motor driving the front wheels. GAC highlights its large lounge-like cabin, class-leading wheelbase, and compact exterior dimensions. The EX2, meanwhile, is Geely’s subcompact BEV hatchback. It features a rear-mounted 114hp motor driving the rear wheels. When it comes to safety, both get six airbags, ADAS suites, and surround-view cameras.
When it comes to pricing, the Aion UT carries a price tag of P1,068,000, while the EX2 Max has a sticker price of P1,038,000. Unlike the GAC, the Geely has a sub-million peso base variant. This, of course, comes with fewer features and no ADAS. For those curious, the MG 4 Urban is priced at P1,198,888.
What do you think of the Aion UT? Would you consider it over the smaller rear-drive EX2? Let us know in the comments.
