2024 GAC M6 Pro – Six things you’ll want to know

A few months ago, GAC Motor Philippines introduced the refreshed GAC GN6 which got a new name—now known as the M6 Pro, and several enhancements that make it a better product compared to before.

The Chinese automaker and its local distributor, Astara Philippines, recently invited us on a quick day trip media drive to the province of Pampanga. Just a quick one hour drive north of Metro Manila, this was to experience everything that they’ve done to improve their seven-seater compact MPV offering.

All of us media participants were assigned to drive the top-spec 1.5 GL DCT variant which was new with the update, meaning we get to experience the best this MPV has to offer. With that in mind, here’s six things we think you’ll want to know about it:

More modern styling

Looking at the GAC GN6 versus its competition, it was not exactly that modern, especially considering what other Chinese automakers were already offering. GAC Motor Philippines has fixed that with the M6 Pro.

In front, it gets a larger front grille and more aggressively-styled bumper with chrome highlights which kind of mimic the Dynamic Shield signature design of Mitsubishi Motors. It’s not that obvious but if you know, you know. It also gets a new set of LED headlights on the GL variant with L-shaped highlights. 

The side is also much improved with the larger and more stylish 18-inch alloy wheels and additional chrome accents. The rear is largely similar as before with wraparound LED taillights but with a slightly redesigned bumper which does really help change things up a bit.

Let me add that the Peacock Blue exterior paint job that our assigned unit had is my favorite color in the lineup. It’s far better than your regular white and black which are the only other choices.

Inside, changes to its design are minor but substantial. GAC Motor has replaced the previously black and brown or white and black interior color options with a new black and burgundy scheme which just takes its premiumness further up. A center console with cupholders and an armrest with storage spaces has also been added. 

These are in addition to other updates which you’ll find out if you continue reading.

Feature-packed MPV

Another improvement here on the GAC M6 Pro compared to its predecessor is its equipment list which has been expanded with more and more modern stuff, especially on this GL variant.

You get a new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, a new 7-inch digital instrument cluster, an electronic gear selector, a new USB Type C port in addition to standard USB-A ports, USB-A ports on the second row seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

We wish it didn’t have a DCT

When the updated model was launched, it also gained more power. Like the GN6, the M6 Pro still gets a 1.5-liter 4A15J1 Inline 4-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, but now making a slightly increased 177 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Power and torque is more than enough for a vehicle of this size. In fact, it has more than the Toyota Zenix, and way more compared to its smaller rivals, only falling behind the MG G50 Plus which was only recently launched locally.

The only downer to this engine and transmission combo is the DCT which replaced the former 6-speed automatic transmission. In typical DCT fashion, there are slight delays and lag when shifting which makes driving in city traffic a bit frustrating, especially once entitled road users start getting into your lane without falling in line. It is generally smoother than similar transmissions in other vehicles though which is a plus.

Seven seats

Just like its main rivals, the Toyota Innova and (Innova) Zenix, the GAC M6 Pro seats seven people. Why is that notable? That’s because the M6 Pro is equipped with second row captain chairs which means that’s one less person over there.

Space is plentiful as you would expect from an MPV and definitely won’t be an issue here whichever seat you get. The third row middle passenger may be in for a tighter squeeze but it’s really just that way in the segment.

Class-leading comfort

Where the GAC M6 Pro truly shines is in comfort, whether you’re taking driving duties or enjoying life as a passenger. For starters, the M6 Pro’s driving position is pretty good, considering that its steering column cannot be adjusted for reach. Its front seats are quite supportive and offer a good amount of side bolstering and adjustability.

If you’re lucky, you’ll get to sit on the previously-mentioned second row captain chairs which are undoubtedly the best seats in the house. These are nothing like the power-adjustable seats with retractable footrests on the Toyota Zenix, but these are more than enough to provide excellent comfort on longer trips. 

The captain seats come with dual armrests which are usual, but also come with butterfly-style headrests which will definitely come in handy during long trips. In fact, my fatigued self who went out late the night before ended up sleeping during most of the drive from Pampanga to Manila.

Of course, with the very comfortable interior comes great NVH (for the most part). Ride quality is excellent with the M6 Pro’s suspension able to soak up most road imperfections flawlessly. Its only trade-off is that it may be too soft at times, causing the vehicle to be a bit bouncier or wallowy. Most people will accept that in favor of a softer ride. 

Also, road and tire noise seems to be a bit loud considering that the M6 Pro gets Michelin Primacy tires. Maybe it’s just the vehicle’s sound deadening then?

Safety systems that actually work

Now the main reason we drove the GAC M6 Pro to Pampanga was to try out a course that was prepared by the organizers at the R33 Drift Track. No we didn’t do donuts or any form of drifting, but we did test out the vehicle’s safety features.

Among that was its anti-lock braking system which would safely bring us to a full stop upon sudden and maximum braking input, even at a corner. There’s also a demonstration of the vehicle’s 360-degree camera system, showcasing its ease of use and high resolution, making tight parking situations a lot easier.

We were also able to do a moose test, which I want to call the e-bike or tricycle avoidance test (hehe), which allowed us to experience how the vehicle will react when you need to suddenly swerve to avoid an object or another road user. Let’s just say the vehicle won’t end up spinning or resting on its side.

Finally, we tested its traction and stability control systems on a wet surface which shows us how the vehicle will not allow you to slip when it detects that some of the wheels are losing grip. It will instead distribute power to the wheel that needs it in order to safely move.

As a bonus, the M6 Pro GL is also equipped with a full suite of advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS). This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, and lane keeping assist, among others. We tested some of these out while on the highway and surely, it’s always great to have them in case you might want to make your drive a little bit more relaxed.

Bang for the buck

The GAC M6 Pro 1.5 GL DCT that we took out on this drive is priced at Php 1,598,000 which is at about the same league as its similarly sized rivals, while offering better comfort, more features, all at a rather affordable price point. Also do take note that the lower GS variant is priced at Php 1,230,000, putting it against smaller sized rivals such as the Mitsubishi Xpander and Hyundai Stargazer, while still offering similar equipment at a larger package.

The GAC M6 Pro is still not perfect, but thanks to this drive, we’re able to see how it stacks up against its rivals, especially in a market where buyers see features as their vehicle’s primary flex. If you want a well-packaged and feature-packed MPV for a lower price, then it’s safe to say that the GAC M6 Pro should be on your list.