GAC Philippines is in a happy mood lately. They celebrated their 7-month long sales streak which translated to a 276% year-over-year growth by unveiling the follow-up to their flagship SUV. Initially launched in a 2WD drivetrain only, the GAC GS8 is now available with a 4WD capability making it more ready for off-road adventures. It’s priced at PHP 2,648,000 but there’s a PHP 100,000 discount until September 30, 2023.
The new GS8 4WD looks the same as its 2WD brother. There’s no difference in any angle in terms of design. Both trims have the signature ‘Wing’ grille, ‘Eye of the Conqueror’ headlights, and ‘Ruby Diamond’ taillights. Even the wheels have the same look and size at 20-inches. The same can be said in the cabin of the 4WD as everything seems to be a carryover from the 2WD trim. There’s the plush ventilated front seats, 7-inch digital gauge cluster, huge 14.6-inch touchscreen, and three-zone automatic climate control. It looks like a twin until you have a closer look.
The GS8 4WD has more drive modes with Sand, Mud, and Snow added to the Eco, Standard, and Sport modes from before. The speakers were upgraded to a 10-speaker Alpine Sound System, and the front center armrest now has ventilation. Minor things but nice additions to go with the more robust capability of this SUV.
Both trims run with a 2-liter TGDI engine making 248hp and 400 Nm of torque, paired to an 8-speed automatic. GAC claims both have a fuel efficiency of 13.2km/l but of course, with a heavier drivetrain, we’ll take that with a grain of salt for the 4WD trim.
It also comes with advanced safety features that includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Sign Recognition System, Full Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Integrated Cruise Assist.
If you’re interested in GAC’s new flagship SUV, it’s better to get it now while the introductory pricing of PHP 2,548,000 is applicable. It will revert to its SRP of PHP 2,648,000 after September 30, 2023.