GAC Empow officially lands in PH, price starts at Php 1.135M

 GAC Motor Philippines, under Astara Philippines, its new local distributor, is kicking off the year of the Rabbit with the introduction of not one, but two new models to enhance the Chinese automaker’s local lineup.

First of the two new models is the all-new 2023 GAC Empow, the brand’s latest compact sedan. First previewed by GAC Motor PH’s previous distributor during the 2022 Manila International Auto Show, the Empow is set to directly take on the likes of the Honda Civic, Mazda3, and Toyota Corolla Altis.

First, let’s talk about variants. The 2023 GAC Empow will be available in three different variants with the entry-level as the 1.5 GS DCT, followed by the mid-grade 1.5 GB DCT, and the top-spec 1.5 GE DCT. All details about each can be found by reading below.

In terms of looks, the Empow gives off a sporty vibe with attention-grabbing elements such as its sleek and sharp lines, and other elements such as the large front grille matched with the aggressive looking headlights in front, a swept-back roofline, and its wraparound taillights at the rear. Exterior color options for the GS and GB variants are Ivory White and Moonlight Gray. Exclusive to the GB variant is Elegant Black, and exclusive to the GS is Matte Fighter Green.

The interior on the other hand features a modern, premium and sporty aesthetic with its mostly horizontal lines, what GAC describes as “vibrant supercar-style” colored materials, fighter-jet inspired seats, dual screen setup, and floating center console. 

Under the hood of all GAC Empow variants is a 1.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine with GAC Motor’s MegaWave technology. It produces 168 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque, paired to a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. GAC claims a 0-100 kph acceleration time of 6.95 seconds. 

Safety is also one key aspect of the GAC Empow as it is available with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), and High Beam Assist.

The 2023 GAC Empow is now available in all GAC Motor dealerships nationwide with the following introductory prices which are applicable until March 31, 2023:

• 1.5 GS DCT: Php 1,135,000
• 1.5 GB DCT: Php 1,215,000
• 1.5 GE DCT: Php 1,283,000

And those are some competitive prices, especially considering what this new model is competing with. What do you think?