Launch Review. The GS3 EMZOOM from new Chinese entrant GAC

GAC (Guangzhou Motor Corporation) has entered the SA foray with an SUV that is set to challenge the fast growing market in Mzansi. Up to 54% of the new car sales consists of niche SUV buyers, so the timing and introduction of the EMZOOM could not be more apt.

I got to test drive the new challenger in the SUV space and I was thoroughly impressed. At a first glance, the SUV is pleasing to the eye with the exterior body shaped in ‘diamond cuts’. And the interior is up there with the best. It’s just a quality build from the ground up, using the best of everything needed to construct an all-round quality machine.  

Image: Rob Till Photography

In a significant move, GAC Motor has signed a strategic agreement with the Salvador Caetano Group to handle distribution and retail operations in South Africa. "As a company deeply rooted in the automotive industry and present on three continents, this partnership, helped GAC Motor to accelerate its international business, and it marks the beginning of a fruitful collaboration”, according to Mr Wang Shunsheng, Deputy General Manager of GAC Motor.

GS3 EMZOOM

Launched globally last year, the GS3 EMZOOM has garnered widespread acclaim for its blend of contemporary design, innovative technology, and superior performance, securing its place in key markets worldwide.

Positioned as a "next-generation SUV," the GS3 EMZOOM is set to captivate local consumers with its combination of aesthetics, practicality, and quality. Designed with the style-conscious Mzansi driver in mind, the GS3 EMZOOM features a sporty, dynamic design that resonates with the market’s preferences. From its sharp lines and eye-catching taillights to the sporty rear wing and hidden door handles, the vehicle exudes a sense of motion and power.

A Head Turner

The GS3 EMZOOM's front face design is both powerful and iconic, sure to turn heads on the road. Integrated LED headlights, featuring 18 LED bulbs for daytime running lights, ensure high brightness, long-term durability, and enhanced night-time safety. The vehicle’s sleek sides are accentuated by a double waistline element, and the stylish taillights, with 66 LED bulbs, create a striking 3D effect, complemented by the sporty rear wing.

Interior

The GS3 EMZOOM offers an interior designed for comfort and versatility. Ergonomic seating ensures a stress-free ride, while the spacious trunk accommodates a variety of travel needs. The cabin comfortably seats five occupants, with impressive backseat legroom thanks to a flat floor.  compartments.

Image: Rob Till Photography

Dual Screens

The GS3 EMZOOM’s advanced dual-screen dashboard includes a high-performance central console powered by an 8-core chipset and a 10.25-inch multi-functional touchscreen. The range also features an LCD instrument cluster up to 7 inches, a surround-view camera system, and a suite of Level 2 ADAS functions, ensuring a safe and intuitive driving experience.

The GS3 EMZOOM is designed with functionality in mind, offering keyless entry, push-button start, ambient cabin lighting, numerous charging ports, and dual-zone automatic air-conditioning. The vehicle's design not only looks good but also meets the daily needs of its drivers, ensuring a seamless and comfortable driving experience.

Features a plenty

With attention to detail in areas like air quality, convenience features, and aesthetics, GAC Motor remains committed to providing customers with a top-tier mobile life experience. The R-Style model, with its diamond-designed gear shift, sporty 18-inch wheels, and super-size openable panoramic sunroof, adds extra flair, offering a great view of the stars and the sunny South African skies.

Image: Rob Till Photography

Under the Hood

The GS3 EMZOOM is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, generating 130 kW and 270 Nm of torque. This engine, combined with GAC’s MegaWave Power technology, allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 8 seconds, while maintaining an impressive fuel efficiency of 6.2L/100km. Drivers can choose between three driving modes: Eco, Comfort, and Sport.

The GS3 EMZOOM’s 7-speed automatic transmission with wet dual-clutch ensures smooth, rapid gear shifts, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Verdict

The GS3 EMZOOM is set to make more than waves in the keenly contested SA SUV market. Sleek exterior lines give it that unmistakable yet pleasing looks. Step inside and feel the all-round superior quality in everything you touch and feel. Start it up and drive off to a most comfortable and smooth ride, with excellent gear-shifts at the right time. A very modest fuel consumption of around 6.2l per 100kms. Since its debut, the GS3 EMZOOM has seen record sales growth in international markets and SA get to experience all the innovation and excellence the SUV has to offer. The EMZOOM GS3: Where craft meets technology.

Pricing:

1.5L T Comfort:  R469,900

1.5L T Executive: R499,900

1.5L T R-Style: R549,900

The vehicle comes with a 5-year/150,000km Warranty and a 5-year/60,000km Service Plan, offering peace of mind with service intervals every 15,000km.