GAC MOTOR Philippines, with its new distributor Astara, concluded the first quarter of 2023 with an impressive record retail sales growth of 228% compared to the same period last year. This growth was fueled by the high demand for the EMPOW sports sedan, all-new GS8 SUV, GS4 compact SUV, and GN6 MPV. Astara’s Brand Head, Jun Cajayon, attributed this achievement to the brand’s lineup of vehicles that offer great value for money to Filipino customers.
During the opening day of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) 2023, GAC MOTOR Philippines launched its newest SUV, the EMKOO, and the GE variant of the EMPOW. The EMKOO is a modern five-seater compact SUV, which embodies GAC MOTOR’s futuristic and bold new look for its global SUVs. The ultra-modern SUV is the embodiment of GAC’s Global Platform Modular Architecture and is characterized by its pioneering styling, intelligent driving technologies, and high-efficiency drivetrains.
The EMKOO’s overall design is futuristic and defined by sharp feature lines, angular edges, and a dynamic stance, giving it a head-turning presence on the road. Inspired by Sci-Fi elements, the industrial aesthetic design features a borderless front face that adopts a V-shape grille, sleek LED headlights, and DRLs that provide a unique visual experience. The SUV’s interior is sensorial, with intelligent technology integrated into the cabin’s interior, giving passengers an immersive experience while on the road.
The EMKOO 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 has a host of Advanced Driving Assist Systems (ADAS), including Adaptive Cruise Control with Integrated Cruise Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Keep Assist, among others, ensuring safe drives.
Powered by a 1.5 GDI turbo petrol engine, the EMKOO delivers a robust 177 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque, paired with a quick-shifting, seven-speed Wet Dual Clutch Transmission. The SUV efficiently delivers a mileage of 16.1 km/L, which is one of the lowest fuel consumption ratings among engines of the same displacement level.
The EMKOO is available in two variants, the entry-level GE and the GL variant. As special introductory prices, the GE is priced at P1,413,000, while the GL sells for P1,553,000.
Jun Cajayon, Astara’s Brand Head of GAC MOTOR Philippines, said, “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.”
GAC MOTOR Philippines’ growth momentum continues to soar, and with the launch of the EMKOO, the brand is set to cater to modern travel enthusiasts who value innovative design and advanced technology. The EMKOO is a testament to the brand’s commitment to bringing in the latest GAC MOTOR vehicles to the country and expanding its lineup to meet the demands of the Filipino market.