GAC Motor Philippines is now under the distributorship of Astara Philippines together with Peugeot. To kick off this momentous occasion, GAC Motor Philippines has unveiled two new vehicles for Q1 2023, the all-new Empow compact sports sedan and the GS8 full-size crossover, during a debut event held on Wednesday at the Power Plant Mall in Makati’s Rockwell.
The debut event for the Empow compact sports sedan and GS8 full-size crossover was the first public launch held by GAC Motor Philippines under its new distributor. Attendees included representatives from both Astara and GAC Motor, such as Astara Managing Director for Southern Europe and the Philippines Jorge Belzunce, Astara Philippines Managing Director Raoul Picello, and GAC Motor Philippines brand head Jun Cajayon.
Both the Empow and GS8 were previously showcased at the 2022 Manila International Auto Show but under the brand’s previous distributor.
“We’re thrilled to start the year on a high note with the highly-anticipated launch of the EMPOW and all-new GS8. Both vehicles represent the best that GAC has to offer at a reasonable price range for our Filipino customers. We are determined to reinvigorate the brand and achieve outstanding performance in the market beginning this year,” said Picello.
The Empow, GAC Motor PH’s first performance sedan, is designed to make a strong impression with its sporty appearance and futuristic lines.
The Empow dares to impress with its cabin, featuring fighter jet-inspired seats, dual digital screens, and amenities such as a power sunroof, dual-zone air conditioning, and a negative ion air purifier. The vehicle also has six airbags and multiple driver-assist features and is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, which generates 168 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque.
“The EMPOW is ideal for customers who want a sports sedan that looks as great as it drives. It provides a performance advantage without compromise at a price point that is well within reach. The EMPOW is, without a doubt, a vehicle that makes a strong statement on the road,” said Jun Cajayon, brand head of GAC MOTOR Philippines.
The EMPOW will be offered in three variants at the following special introductory price points and colors:
• 1.5L GE DCT for PHP 1,283,000 in Matte Fighter Green (exclusive color)
• 1.5L GB DCT for PHP 1,215,000 in Ivory White, Moonlight Grey, and Elegant Black
• 1.5L GS DCT for PHP 1,135,000 in Ivory White and Moonlight Grey
The introductory prices incorporate a discount of PHP 90,000 for the GS and GB variants, and PHP 65,000 for the GE. These special prices will be valid until March 31, 2023.
The GS8 SUV, now on its second generation, serves as the flagship model of GAC Motor Philippines. The exterior has been redesigned to give it a more stately appearance and it is now bigger than the previous iteration.
The GS8’s interior can comfortably seat seven occupants, featuring leather upholstery with diamond stitching and three-zone automatic climate control. It also features a large 14.6-inch high-definition touchscreen with phone mirroring capabilities and a variety of driver-assist features such as Forward Collision Warning and an HD Surround Vision Parking System.
Powering the GS8 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection gasoline engine that produces 248 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, paired with a third-generation 8-speed automatic gearbox. Drivers can choose between three driving modes (ECO, Comfort, Sport) that range from efficiency to performance.
“The all-new GS8 builds on its success as GAC MOTOR’s flagship SUV with its complete package of style, quality, reliability, and safety. It has been masterfully designed to exude confidence on the road, making it the perfect match for customers seeking distinction and refinement in their SUV,” said Cajayon.
The all-new GS8 is offered at a special introductory price of PHP 2,298,000 and is available in four colors: Ink Seal Green, Crystal White, Moonlight Grey, and Elegant Black. The introductory price provides a special discount of PHP 100,000 valid until March 31, 2023 only.