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The GAC GS3 Emzoom: No identity crisis here

If you want to make a bold statement that will last, the GAC GS3 Emzoom is here to make sure the eyes are definitely on you.

Jerome Tresvalles
COTW GAC GS3 Emzoom

The subcompact crossover segment provides buyers with the drive quality of a sedan with the ride height and design of an SUV. It’s the best of both worlds, right? Yes, however, while you do get a practical car with a much more refined ride than an SUV, the body of the subcompact crossover leaves you with a car that looks identical to its competitors. 

In comes GAC with the GS3 Emzoom, the next generation of the GS3 crossover. This all-new model has dropped the conservative looks of its predecessor for a bold and loud new look. Let’s talk about the GS3 Emzoom, how it breaks the tried and tested mold of the subcompact crossover segment, and why it takes the GS3 nameplate to a whole new level.

Before we get to go over the GS3 Emzoom, we have to go back in time a bit to its predecessor, the non-Emzoom, GS3. The first-gen GS3 was launched back in 2019 with a choice of a naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter engine and a turbocharged 1.3-liter gasoline engine. In terms of power, the 1.5-liter produces 113 hp and 150 Nm of torque while the turbocharged 1.3-liter engine pumps out 136 hp and 202 Nm torque.

GAC GS3
GAC GS3 Side
GAC GS3 Rear

As for the looks, the GS3 follows the design language of the much larger GS4. The previous GS3 is not an unattractive car by any means. However, because it looks close to the GS4 crossover, the GS3 is slightly overshadowed by its bigger brother. 

Now, the new GS3 Emzoom comes with more power and a more defined personality. All variants of the GS3 Emzoom are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine which produces 174 hp and 270 Nm of torque. In addition, the transmission is upgraded from a six-speed automatic to a seven-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission.

GAC GS3 Emzoom Front Quarter
GAC GS3 Emzoom Side
GAC GS3 Emzoom Rear Quarter

On the exterior front, the GS3 Emzoom is much more aggressive than before. Going beyond just being a functional crossover, the GS3 Emzoom now makes a definitive statement with its sporty and youthful looks. If the GS3 before can get lost in a sea of crossovers, the GS3 Emzoom will stand out even in the company of more premium cars.

GAC GS3 Emzoom Interior

While the exterior of the GS3 Emzoom R-Style radiates sportiness and boldness, the inside tells a different story. Step inside and you'll find a luxurious and comfortable space that is neatly organized. Features that will stand out to people are the flat-bottomed steering wheel, ambient lighting, and soft-touch materials placed strategically throughout the cabin.  After all, while sporty looks are nice for the exterior, most people want to be relaxed once they step inside the vehicle, and with the GS3 Emzoom, GAC has gotten the combo just right.

GAC GS3 Emzoom Front
GAC GS3 Emzoom Rear Seats
GAC GS3 Emzoom Dashboard

The GS3 Emzoom blends sporty agility and everyday comfort. In our review of the GS3 Emzoom-R Style, we found that the suspension is firm but not jarring, ensuring a smooth ride for daily commutes while enabling enthusiastic driving on twisty roads. Because subcompact crossovers have to cater to a wide range of people, we feel that the suspension of the GS3 Emzoom is tuned just right. In addition, because the entire range is equipped with the same suspension setup, whichever variant in the ladder you choose will have the same ride quality.

GAC GS3 Emzoom Ambient Lighting

All in all, we feel that it’s a plus for the GS3 Emzoom because despite its new and aggressive looks, it hasn’t lost sight of what it was built to be, and that is a compact crossover with lots of space and a supple ride.

GAC GS3 Emzoom Engine

Moving on to the engine, the GS3 Emzoom features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 174 hp and 270 Nm of torque. The horsepower figures are impressive and are within the range of what you’d expect for this class of vehicles. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the GS3 Emzoom demonstrates commendable economical performance based on our previous review. During city driving, navigating through diverse traffic conditions, it delivers mileage between 10 to 12 km/l, depending on the level of traffic congestion. On the open highway, it not only meets but surpasses expectations with an impressive mileage exceeding 15 km/l. 

GAC Emzoom Dynamic

When you look at the GS3 Emzoom and compare it to the previous model, you can see that GAC has given a lot of thought to building it. The GS3 Emzoom is sporty, aggressive, and much more loud than before, but, it hasn’t lost track of its purpose and the people it caters to. 

In addition to its commendable driving characteristics and impressive design, the Emzoom has another bombshell in store for its competitors, the price. The GS3 Emzoom starts at P998,000 with the GS variant and tops out at P1,198,000 with the R-Style. When you consider what you get for the GS3 Emzoom, the looks, the drive, and the features, it’s definitely worth putting at the top of your list if you’re in the market for a new crossover. 

If you are shopping for a new crossover, check out the GS3 Emzoom on AutoDeal.com.ph and compare it with other cars using our Comparo feature. Once you’re ready to make a purchase, click the “get quote” button to connect with a professional sales agent. Experience a hassle-free shopping journey for your new ride – try it now.

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