GAC MOTOR Philippines sustains its growth momentum with new distributor Astara, capping off the first quarter of the year with record retail sales and the expansion of its line-up in the country.
The company announced overall retail sales for the first quarter grew by 228% compared to the same period last year, marking a new record for the brand in the market. This growth was driven by high demand for the EMPOW sports sedan, the all-new GS8 SUV, the GS4 compact SUV and the GN6 MPV.
“We continue to make headway with our plans since taking over the brand, driven by our line-up of vehicles that offer great value for money to our Filipino customers,” said Jun Cajayon, Brand Head of GAC MOTOR, Astara Philippines. “We at Astara are proud to work with GAC MOTOR in bringing these exceptional cars renowned for their modern design, fine craftsmanship, superior build quality, and cutting-edge technology. We remain fully committed to reach more customers nationwide together with our growing dealer family,” he added.
True to its promise of bringing in the best and the latest GAC MOTOR vehicles to the country, the company launched the EMKOO, the brand’s newest SUV, and the GE variant of the EMPOW during the opening day of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) 2023.
The EMKOO is an ultra-modern 5-seater compact SUV that impresses with its future-forward design and cutting-edge technologies. “Today’s launch ushers in a new era of modern travel through GAC MOTOR’s vision of the future, brought to life by the bold styling and cutting-edge technology of the EMKOO. We are excited to change the game in the segment with this latest addition to our expanding line-up of vehicles,” said Cajayon.
The overall design of the EMKOO is bold, captivating, and futuristic. Inspired by sci-fi elements, the industrial aesthetic design is defined by sharp feature lines, angular edges and a dynamic stance that add appeal to the distinct look and head-turning presence of the EMKOO.
The front face is borderless and adopts a V-shape grille, which is accentuated with sleek LED- powered headlights and DRLs. These lights may be programmed to light up individually and sequentially to provide a visual experience.
Inside, the EMKOO is highly sensorial. Intelligent technology is integrated into the cabin’s interior, which was given attention and texture to give passengers an immersive experience while on the road. Fine materials used throughout the cabin are meticulously crafted such as the hand-sewn leather seats and high-quality finishes on the panels.
The EMKOO features a four-way adjustable multi-function steering wheel, a 10.1-inch multi- functional touchscreen with Apple CarPlay integration, speed-based volume adjustment, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a keyless start button. Other amenities include power adjust settings and ventilation for front row seats, automatic air-conditioning with second row vents, and configurable ambient lighting.
The vehicle is equipped with various safety features, such as dual front and side curtain airbags, Electronic Stability Program, Hill Start Hold and Hill Descent controls, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It also comes with rear parking sensors and a surround view camera system.
Advanced Driving Assist Systems (ADAS) help to ensure safe drives with the EMKOO, including Adaptive Cruise Control with Integrated Cruise Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Keep Assist among others.
Powered by a 1.5 GDI turbo petrol engine, the EMKOO delivers a robust 177hp and 270Nm of torque, paired with a quick-shifting, seven-speed Wet Dual Clutch Transmission. The turbo-charged engine efficiently delivers a mileage of 16.1 km/L, one of the lowest fuel consumption ratings among engines of the same displacement level.
The EMKOO will be offered in two variants: GL and the entry-level GE at the following special introductory price points:
• 1.5L EMKOO GE – Php 1,413,000
• 1.5L EMKOO GL – Php 1,553,000
It will be available in five colors: Lagoon Green (launch color), Glacier White, Moon Grey, Starry Silver and Elegant Black.
GAC’s display at the MIAS 2023 also showcases the muscular and powerful EMPOW, the premium and elegant all-new GS8 SUV, the versatile and reliable GS4 compact SUV, and the spacious and highly comfortable GN6 MPV.
The EMPOW is characterized by futuristic lines and a sleek, muscle car-like silhouette that give the EMPOW an aggressive stance. The sculpted form and attention-grabbing design elements define its sporty profile, while its interiors, driving performance and technology are engineered to thrill the senses.
The top-of-the-line GE variant features 18-inch alloy wheels, paddle shifters, power folding mirrors, and a full suite of advanced driving assist systems and safety features. The EMPOW’s signature color, Matte Fighter Green, will be exclusive to the GE variant.
“We’ve seen huge demand for the EMPOW among our customers since launching three months ago. With the arrival of the GE variant, customers can fully experience the performance advantage without compromise of this great-looking sedan at a price point that is well within reach,” added Cajayon.
The latest generation GS8 7-seater SUV remains one of GAC’s most successful nameplates, and has been upgraded to bring prestige to premium buyers. The brand’s flagship SUV combines form and function with its bold and futuristic design style, surging power and pioneering smart configurations.
The robust silhouette gives the all-new GS8 a stately and executive persona while the interior is designed to give comfort and convenience to the driver and passengers. It also comes with a wide array of convenience, safety, driving assistance and technology features. A 2.0 Turbo GDI engine, which provides a power of 248hp and an upgraded torque of 400 Nm, is paired with an 8-speed automatic.
The second-generation GS4 is a versatile and comfortable 5-seater SUV that is spacious, comfortable, and easy to drive. The exterior sports a cleaner and more streamlined design. The interior has been upgraded to be more stylish with its two-tone leather seats and panels, a Euro-inspired dashboard, and a multifunction infotainment touchscreen.
It’s powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged GDI gasoline engine that produces 166hp and 265Nm of torque, mated with a responsive and agile 6-speed Aisin automatic. The Euro-standard chassis helps the GS4 deliver supple suspension and balanced handling on the road while the body is made of ultra-strength hot-stamped steel that provides comprehensive protection for passengers and driver. It also comes with cruise control, tire pressure monitoring, LED headlights and DRLs, rear fog lights, and integrated roof rails.
GAC’s interpretation of a comfortable and stylish MPV is realized in the GN6. Boasting of an abundance of space, a comfortable seating configuration and a highly efficient engine, the GN6 delights both driver and passengers with an easy-to-drive MPV that is designed with a touch of finesse.
The GN6 is powered by a petrol engine that puts out 169hp and 265Nm of torque, equipped with a 6-speed automatic. The GN6 also comes with front fog lamps, 12-volt power outlets, multiple airbags, Auto-Hold parking brake, cruise control, and a host of other driving aids and convenience amenities.
For a limited time only, GAC MOTOR Philippines is offering an additional PHP20,000 discount on top of current promo offers on all vehicle reservations made at the MIAS or in any GAC dealership nationwide from April 13 to 16. Low-interest financing plans are also offered in partnership with Security Bank. Each vehicle purchased comes with 5-year warranty on parts and services.