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GAC unveils the Aion i60 — a Toyota bZ3X sibling with its own identity
GAC's Aion sub-brand has revealed its latest crossover, the Aion i60. Built on the same Toyota–GAC joint platform as the Toyota bZ3X, the i60 arrives with both a fully electric variant and a noteworthy plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option — a key differentiator for buyers who want an electrified crossover but still crave gasoline backup.
First look and market timing
GAC released official images after the model received approval from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in early October. Pre-orders are scheduled to open on November 3, positioning the Aion i60 for a rapid market entry in the competitive Chinese EV and electrified crossover segment.
Shared architecture, distinct styling
While the Aion i60 shares core components with the Toyota bZ3X — including door panels, window lines and side mirrors — GAC has given the car its own visual signature: unique headlights, revised bumpers and flush, retractable door handles. The i60 also features the same windshield-mounted LiDAR sensor array used by its platform siblings, enabling advanced driver assistance and higher-level autonomous features.
Dimensions and options
The Aion i60 is slightly larger than its siblings, measuring 4,685 mm in length with a 2,775 mm wheelbase. Buyers can choose between 18- and 19-inch wheel designs, offering a balance between ride comfort and sporty stance.
Key highlights:
- Length: 4,685 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,775 mm
- Wheel sizes: 18" and 19"
- LiDAR-equipped ADAS
"Aion i60 aims to blend Toyota engineering with GAC’s flair — and the PHEV variant could broaden its appeal," said an industry analyst.
Powertrains and range
The headline feature is the availability of a plug-in hybrid setup. The PHEV pairs a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter gasoline engine (around 101 hp) with an electric motor on the front axle that boosts system output to either 204 or 224 hp. A 29 kWh battery delivers a claimed electric-only range of approximately 160 km, making it a practical daily EV for many users while keeping long-trip flexibility.
The all-electric Aion i60 shares the bZ3X’s power outputs — 204 or 224 hp — though GAC has not yet published definitive battery capacity or WLTP/NEDC range figures for the BEV i60. For context, the Toyota bZ3X currently offers 50 kWh and 75 kWh battery options with roughly 430 km and 650 km ranges respectively.
Positioning and outlook
GAC’s strategy leverages the Toyota-JV architecture to deliver faster development while differentiating with localized design, PHEV capability, and competitive pricing potential. Full specifications, pricing and additional tech details are expected to be announced next week, but early signs indicate the Aion i60 will be a strong contender in the compact electric crossover market.
For enthusiasts tracking Chinese EV launches and Toyota’s global electrification moves, the Aion i60 is a model worth watching — especially if you’re weighing BEV range versus PHEV practicality.
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