GAC AION V ARRIVES: A NEW CHAPTER IN LUXURY ELECTRIC CARS

The model, available in more than 20 markets worldwide, combines progressive design with advanced EV engineering, offering a long-range, fast-charging alternative that redefines what Australian drivers can expect from electric mobility.

BUILT ON INNOVATION

Selling more than two million vehicles in China last year, GAC has emerged as a leader in new-energy mobility, drawing on decades of research and development and collaborations with Toyota and Honda.

Underpinning the AION V is GAC’s proprietary 400 V electric architecture, a densely packed 75.26 kWh battery, and extensive use of lightweight aluminium. The result: a 510 km WLTP range and fast charging from 30 to 80 per cent in just 16 minutes.

Its 150 kW motor produces 210 Nm of torque, while a heat-pump air-conditioning system improves overall power efficiency — hallmarks of the brand’s real-world engineering approach.

SAFETY FIRST

At the heart of the AION V’s safety credentials is the Magazine Battery 2.0, GAC’s patented technology designed for exceptional durability and fire resistance even under extreme conditions.

The SUV also meets i-Size, the latest international standard for child seat compatibility — reinforcing its credentials as a smart and secure family choice.

DESIGN WITHOUT BORDERS

Developed through GAC’s global design network, with studios in Milan, Los Angeles, Shanghai and Guangzhou, the AION V reflects the brand’s internationally influenced aesthetic.

Muscular proportions, a bold waistline and distinctive “dragon claw” lighting give it a confident, athletic stance, while inside, the cabin offers a calming, minimalist environment anchored by a 14.6-inch central display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Soft-touch materials, a panoramic glass roof with electric sunscreen, and 4 mm acoustic glass deliver a serene, premium ambience.

REFINED PRACTICALITY

Space is generous, with class-leading rear legroom of up to 1.1 metres and the ability to recline the front seats into a queen-bed configuration. A smart-sensor tailgate and 978-litre cargo capacity (rear seats folded) ensure practicality keeps pace with luxury.

The Luxury trim adds standout features, notably a 6.6-litre refrigerator hidden in the central armrest that cools to –15 °C or warms to 50 °C, and eight-point massage seats for driver and passenger.

READY FOR AUSTRALIA

Cheney Liang, Deputy General Manager of GAC Australia, said: “We’ve already delivered the AION V in over 20 countries worldwide, and we’re delighted that Australians can now experience this exceptional, feature-rich SUV for themselves.

“Whether choosing the Premium or Luxury model, every AION V represents the very best of modern electric powertrain technology, combining this with the safety, comfort and everyday practicality that truly make a difference in Australian life.”

Italian fine wines are gaining momentum among Australian collectors and drinkers, with new data from showing a surge in interest driven by value, versatility and a new generation of producers.

Long dominated by France, the premium wine conversation is beginning to shift, with Italy increasingly positioned as a compelling alternative for both drinking and collecting.

According to Langtons, the category is benefiting from a combination of factors, including its breadth of styles, strong food affinity and more accessible price points compared to traditional European benchmarks.

“Italy has always offered fine wine fans an incredible range of wines with finesse, nuance, expression of terroir, ageability, rarity, and heritage,” said Langtons General Manager Tamara Grischy.

“There’s no doubt the Italian wine category is gaining momentum in 2026… While the French have long dominated the fine wine space in Australia, we’re seeing Italy become a strong contender as the go-to for both drinking and collecting.”

The shift is being reinforced by changing consumer preferences, with Langtons reporting increased demand for indigenous Italian varieties and lighter, food-first styles such as Nerello Mascalese from Etna and modern Chianti Classico.

This aligns with the broader rise of Mediterranean-style dining in Australia, where wines are expected to complement a wider range of dishes rather than dominate them.

Langtons buyer Zach Nelson said the category’s versatility is central to its appeal.

“Italian wines often have a distinct, savoury edge making them an ideal pairing for a variety of cuisines,” he said.

The move towards Italian wines also comes as prices for traditional French regions continue to climb, particularly in Burgundy, prompting collectors to look elsewhere for value without compromising on quality.

Italy’s key regions, including Piedmont and Etna, are increasingly seen as offering that balance, with premium wines available at comparatively accessible price points.

Nelson said value is now a defining factor for buyers in 2026.

“Value is the key driver for Australian fine wine consumers… Italian wines are offering exactly that at an impressive array of price points to suit any budget,” he said.

The category is also proving attractive for newer collectors, offering what Langtons describes as “accessible prestige” and a more open entry point compared to the exclusivity often associated with Bordeaux.

Wines such as Brunello di Montalcino and Nebbiolo-based expressions are increasingly being positioned as entry points into cellar-worthy collections, combining ageability with relative affordability.

At the same time, a new generation of Italian producers is reshaping the category, moving away from heavier, oak-driven styles towards wines that emphasise site expression and vibrancy.

“There’s definitely a ‘new guard’ of Italian winemaking… stripping away the makeup… to let the raw, vibrating energy of the site speak,” Nelson said.

Langtons is also expanding its offering in the category, including exclusive access to wines from family-owned producer Boroli, alongside a broader selection spanning Piedmont, Veneto, Sicily and Tuscany.

The company will showcase the category further at its upcoming Italian Collection Masterclass and Tasting in Sydney, featuring more than 50 wines from 23 producers across four key regions.

For collectors and drinkers alike, the message is clear: Italy may have been overlooked, but it is no longer under the radar.