The GAC GS4 Max HEV could further expand the automaker’s electrified lineup

Hot off the heels of GAC Philippines’ recent launch of its three MPVs—the updated GN6, the E8 HEV, and GN8 PHEV, it looks like the Chinese automaker could be preparing for yet another electrified launch offering, as the GS4 Max HEV has popped up in homologation documents.

Thanks to available public information, we have an idea of what the GS4 Max will possibly bring to the Philippines. For one, this will bring a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine paired to a hybrid system, mated to a 2-speed dedicated hybrid transmission and a 2.1kWh NCM battery. Combined power output is a healthy 232 horsepower and 300Nm, and promises up to 1,250km total range.

The GS4 used to be sold in the Philippines under GAC’s previous distributor before being discontinued, with the Emkoo taking this vehicle’s spot in the country as its compact crossover offering.

The GS4 Max looks very similar to the Emkoo profile-wise, featuring the same chiseled, angular look, just with a more conventional-looking front end with slim LED headlights, an unusually large front grille, and diamond-like elements up front. It rides on wheel sizes up to 18 and 19-inches, and you can see the familiar angular lighting signature at the back from the Emkoo, but now connected by a light bar.

The interior is a more toned-down version of the radical Emkoo, with the local variant potentially featuring synthetic leather upholstery, a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, a seven-inch digital instrument cluster, a six-speaker audio system, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, a power tailgate, and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems.

All of these are still up in the air, so things could change if GAC Philippines launches the car and unveils finalized specifications. Would you consider this compact crossover compared to other rivals?

^{Photos from GAC}