GAC GS3 EMZOOM zooms into PH with Php 998K starting price

GAC Motor Philippines, under the distributorship of Astara Philippines, is definitely staying aggressive in its push to increase its market share by zooming into the country its latest model. Meet the all-new GAC GS3 Emzoom (stylized as EMZOOM).

The GS3 Emzoom is the second generation of the Chinese automaker’s subcompact crossover entry and the Philippines is actually the first market to receive this model outside of China. It is set to compete with the likes of the MG ZST as well as the very popular Geely Coolray.

“We are proud to host the international debut of the all new GS3 Emzoom after its reveal in China last December. The GS3 Emzoom is the newest challenger in the scene, set to drive the GAC brand to new heights and zoom through Philippine roads with its fierce and sporty character,” said Jun Cajayon, brand head of GAC Motor Philippines. 

Looking at the 2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom’s exterior, it is a huge departure from the previous generation. While the old one wore safe and conservative styling, this new one goes for a striking and bold, loud, and aggressive look with plenty of sharp diagonal lines all around. On the other hand, opposed to its exterior theme, its interior goes for a more simple and clutter-free modern layout. 

Standard exterior equipment on both the GS and GB variants are LED headlights and daytime running lights, electric door handles, 18-inch alloy wheels, rear fog light, and LED taillights. Going for the top-spec GL gives you a sport body kit, 19-inch alloy wheels, dual center exhaust pipes, power tailgate, power-folding side mirrors, and a sunroof.

Available exterior color options are Salt Lake Blue, Graphene Grey, Moonlight Grey, Ivory White, Superstar Silver. Three interior color options are also available: Blue + Black, Green + Beige, and Camel Brown.

As for standard interior equipment, starting from the GS, are fabric seats, 3.5-inch TFT meter display, 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, and a 2-speaker audio system. The GB then gives you PVC leather seats, 7-inch instrument cluster display, 4-speaker audio system, automatic climate control, and leather-wrapped steering wheel. The top-spec GL adds ambient lighting, power-adjustable driver’s seat, rear center armrest, wireless phone charger, and 6-speaker audio system.

Under the hood of all 2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom variants is a 1.5-liter turbocharged Mega Wave Power Inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 174 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque, paired to a 7-speed (wet-type) dual-clutch transmission. Familiar? This is the exact powertrain found in the Empow and Emkoo. Also, an active valve exhaust system is equipped on the top-spec GL.

In terms of safety, the GS3 Emzoom comes standard with dual front airbags, electronic stability program, hill hold control, tire pressure monitoring system, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. Getting the GB adds side airbags, hill descent control, and reverse camera, while going for the GL adds side curtain airbags and a 360-degree around-view monitor.

In addition, the GL variant comes equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). This gives it adaptive cruise control with integrated cruise assist, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, traffic sign recognition, traffic jam assist, high beam assist, speed limiter, and lane keep assist with lane departure warning.

As already announced before, introductory pricing for the 2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom is as follows:

• 1.5 GS DCT – Php 998,000
• 1.5 GB DCT – Php 1,098,000
• 1.5 GL DCT – Php 1,198,000

Customers will also get to enjoy a 5-year vehicle warranty with deliveries expected to begin next month. Also, knowing GAC Motor Philippines, the introductory prices may actually become the permanent suggested retail prices.

With all that in mind, do you think the GAC GS3 Emzoom has what it takes to beat the Geely Coolray and other models in the segment?