GAC GS3 EMZOOM 1.5T Crossover Drive Review
Should the Japanese rival be worried about the GS3 EMZOOM
Well, local brand guardian, Tan Chong Group have confirmed the assembly of this latest Crossover in their Segambut plant where the Subaru XV used to be put together before being forced into small market share.
Did you know that the ‘Crossover’ driving characteristics and performance is similar to those of traditional passenger cars, while providing more passenger and cargo space with relatively minor trade-offs in fuel economy and running cost?
Put simply, a crossover is lighter than a SUV and built on a car platform, while a traditional SUV (like the Nissan X-Trail) is heavier. There are, however, a few additional things to help you differentiate between these two unique (Crossover and SUV) vehicle types.
A crossover’s body and frame are built in a single piece. This is called unibody construction. This design provides a better ride quality and, because it’s lighter, generally achieves better fuel efficiency.
This latest GAC offering combines a striking exterior with large interior space, good driving performance and everyday practicality. Young Malaysians are finding this Crossover’s design language very appealing and the very interesting color contrast provided is very dynamic and eye catching. Its an Instagram favorite!
The body sits high and is covered with subtle geometric lines, giving the car a sporty yet sizeable character and an overall fluidity of appearance.
GAC Group’s commitment to design really shines through in the unmistakable Flying Wing front grille design, huge spiderweb-esque 19″ alloy wheels, ‘Light Dart’ taillights and large twin rear exhausts.
There are 5 available base colors are available for purchase, including the stunning Salt Lake Blue seen in these pictures.
Interestingly, this new Chinese made crossover is set to do battle primarily with Proton’s X50 Flagship priced at RM113k, the very popular Honda HR-V priced from RM114k, Chery Omoda 5 priced at RM118k and even the Mazda CX3 priced from RM115k when it eventually begins rolling off Tan Chong’s Segambut production line come the third quarter of 2024 (very soon). Right now it is all fully imported from China and the current CBU stocks are selling fast.
Under the hood, the GAC GS3 EMZOOM boasts a company third-generation 1.5 turbocharged gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine paired with a seven-speed wet dual clutch transmission, which is able to deliver 174 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque.
The dashboard and cabin is spacious and clutter-free, with a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay (yes, the immediate rival from China does not have this).
Moreover, it offers a much larger interior space compared to its price bracket competitors while also incorporating 21 storage spaces around the cabin.
The GS3 EMZOOM also packs a multitude of airbags, ABS with EBD, vehicle stability control, hill start assist, hill descent control, tire pressure monitors, as well as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) on higher variants. This incorporates features such as lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist.
This Chinese automotive company prides itself for its engineering. With this EMZOOM it is all about cabin fir and quality and also passenger comfort (we liked the soft padded seat headrest).
Ignite the 1.5-liter petrol fed engine and it is quiet, whisper quiet. The cabin is very well insulated and built to a high standard, almost premium car standard. Accelerate slowly and the EMZOOM just glides along, hammer the accelerator and the engine returns a buttery smooth progress.
The 7-speed gearbox is a smooth operator. With good gear ratios, this gearbox makes the ride energetic and the average fuel consumption meagre. Front passengers will be comfortable with electric seats that are well bolstered and soft and the rear passengers will have enough legroom and shoulder room, even if there are three ‘nasi kandar eating’ adults in the rear.
Final Word
It looks great, drives brilliantly and comes with all the necessary bells and whistles that is needed for today’s fast paced executive or family. Women drivers will be drawn to its easy to live with cabin and drive dynamics and if you need a responsive entertaining Crossover, this GAC will not disappoint you. Test drive it before dismissing it completely.
GAC GS3 EMZOOM Specification
Engine: 4-cylinder Turbocharged TGDi
Capacity: 1,497cc
Transmission: 7-Speed Wet-Clutch DCT
Max Power: 177PS @ 5,500rpm
Max Torque: 270Nm @ 1,400-4,500rpm
Price: From RM118,900.00
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