New Aion UT Cross electric crossover to arrive next year

Chinese car manufacturer Aion has unveiled the new UT Cross at the Paris Motor Show, a more rugged-looking version of its electric UT hatchback that will arrive in the UK early next year.

The UT Cross is based on the regular UT, which only recently arrived in UK showrooms, but adds SUV-inspired styling and slightly raised suspension. It will be joined in 2027 by the larger GS7, which will introduce hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains to Aion’s UK range.

Aion UT Cross gets raised suspension and rugged styling

The UT Cross sits two centimetres higher than the standard UT hatchback, with additional black plastic SUV-style cladding around the wheel arches and lower bodywork. Other changes include roof rails, wider 225mm tyres and a new alloy wheel design.

Aion has not announced any changes intended to improve on the standard hatch’s off-road capabilities. The UT Cross retains the same electric motor as the regular UT, producing 204hp. It also uses the same 60kWh battery, although an official driving range for the new model has yet to be confirmed.

Inside, the UT Cross shares much of its cabin with the standard hatchback, including a relatively spacious interior and a 440-litre boot. Standard equipment will include a heat pump to improve heating efficiency in colder weather and a heated steering wheel.

The UT Cross is scheduled to arrive in UK showrooms in early 2027, with prices and full specifications to be announced closer to launch.

Larger GS7 to introduce hybrid powertrains

Aion has also presented the GS7 at the Paris Motor Show, ahead of its UK arrival later in 2027.

Unlike the all-electric UT Cross, the GS7 will be offered with hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, marking Aion’s first move beyond fully electric cars in the UK.

The five-seat SUV is already sold in several overseas markets and will use a new platform designed to accommodate electrified powertrains.

Aion says the GS7 will introduce a more upmarket interior and additional technology to its UK range, although detailed specifications, performance figures and pricing have not yet been announced.

The two new models form part of Aion’s wider expansion plans, with at least five additional cars expected to join its UK line-up over the next 18 months. The manufacturer aims to offer eight models in Britain by 2030.