GAC GS3 EMZOOM SUV officially launched, priced from RM119,000

The flood of new models from Chinese brands – most of which are entering the Malaysian market for the first time – continues with the GAC GS3 EMZOOM being officially launched this evening by WTC Automotif (WTCA). While the brand actually made its entry in 2021, it was then the pandemic period when activities were on a low key, so its early products had limited publicity.

However, over the past year, things picked up as WTCA, which represents the brand, began to prepare for the launch of a new range of models, starting with the new GS3 EMZOOM. Not only that, the models would be assembled locally, allowing them to have more competitive pricing.

Two locally-assembled versions
The EMZOOM is not a surprise since WTCA has been showing it around the country since the beginning of this year, along with the GS3 EMKOO and AION EV. The EMZOOM is the first product to be assembled and comes in two versions – Exclusive at RM118,900 and Premium R at RM128,900 (both prices excluding insurance premium). With these prices, Proton, Chery and even Honda Malaysia are going to have to start reconsidering the prices of their compact SUV models.

Part of a very experienced group
And while most of the other brands from China are doing battle themselves, GAC has tied up with a partner which has more than half a century of experience in the local car business at all levels. WTCA may not be so well known but its parent company is Warisan TC Motor Holdings Bhd which is part of the Tan Chong Group. And Malaysians would know Tan Chong well since it is an original Malaysian company which started in 1957 and introduced Nissan (then as the  Datsun brand), which it still represents up to today. That long experience could prove advantageous to GAC and who knows, it may have a growth trajectory like how Nissan shot to prominence.

Both versions of the EMZOOM come with the same 3^rd generation 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 177 ps/270 Nm. That output travel to the front wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch (wet) transmission which means quick and smooth shifting.

Generous wheelbase, spacious interior
The spacious interior (thanks to having a generous 2650 mm wheelbase) has the same minimalist dashboard that is typical of many of today’s Chinese models. However, there is no tablet-like centre display and instead, GAC’s designer have installed a 10.25-inch panel which appears to  merge with a 7-inch instrument panel (rather like the wide BMW’s Curved Display).

All the convenience features are provided and of course, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provide easy connectivity with a smartphone. Standard features include hidden door handles, remote engine starting, electronic parking brake, two-tone trim with leatherette upholstery and a surround-view camera system.

The Premium R version, which is RM10,000 more, comes with a R Style package that adds 36 mm to the SUV’s length. For the extra money, you also get a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, 6-way powered driver’s seat, wireless phone charger pad, ambient lighting and a powered tailgate.

The ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) provides active systems to help the driver monitor for potential accident situations and can take action if the driver doesn’t react correctly. To make driving easier, there is adaptive cruise control and a traffic sign recognition system (though its recognition would be limited at this time). High Beam Assist and Fusion Automatic Parking Assist are included with the EMZOOM Premium R.

Reward for first 2,000 owners
WTCA officials say that prior to the price announcement tonight, there were already a few hundred customers who made bookings. These early birds, along with others who make up the very first GS3 EMZOOM owners in Malaysia, will be rewarded with a special launch package of 3 complimentary scheduled maintenance services, and a 7-year/180,000 km powertrain warranty (besides the 5-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty).

Additionally, WTCA is giving the 2,000 owners a GAC Smart Key Watch (worth RM1,388) which is specially programmed to connect to the EMZOOM and can eve function like a remote key.

The GAC network in Malaysia is rapidly expanding and currently, there are 15 official dealers. Together with its own branches, WTCA expects to have over 20 showrooms and aftersales centres nationwide by the third quarter of 2024. There are also plans to have a presence in East Malaysia in due course.

Visit gacmotor.com.my to know more about the GS3 EMZOOM and where to find a showroom in Malaysia.

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