2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style
The GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style has arrived in South Africa, and it might just be the best Chinese car to grace our roads to date. It’s a bold statement, but the Emzoom earns it with a combination of sharp styling, an interior that rivals premium European brands, and a driving experience that is nothing short of impressive.
In a market where competition is fierce, GAC Motor seems to have delivered a package that feels like it belongs to a class above its price point.
Chinese cars often face scepticism, but the GS3 Emzoom R-Style quickly silences any doubts. Its exterior design is daring and sporty, showcasing sharp lines, a striking “flying-mecha” front grille, and dramatic LED lighting that gives it a futuristic appeal. The 18-inch alloy wheels and a sporty rear wing enhance its stance, making it hard to ignore on the road. While some SUVs in this segment can look uninspired, the Emzoom dares to stand out – and succeeds.
Step inside, and the interior is where the GS3 Emzoom R-Style truly shines. From the moment you open the door, it’s evident that GAC Motor has prioritized comfort and functionality. The seats are ergonomically designed, offering excellent support for long drives. Rear passengers will appreciate the generous legroom, aided by a flat floor, which makes even the back seat feel luxurious.
It doesn’t just stop at comfort; the cabin is filled with thoughtful touches like dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, ambient lighting, and multiple charging ports to ensure passengers remain as comfortable as the driver.
The dual-screen dashboard is another highlight, featuring a 10.25-inch central touchscreen and a crisp LCD instrument cluster. The interface is responsive and intuitive, powered by an 8-core chipset that ensures smooth operation. Technology lovers will enjoy the inclusion of a surround-view camera system and advanced driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
These features not only add to the car’s appeal but also make it a safer choice for families and tech enthusiasts alike.
What makes the Emzoom particularly special, though, is how it feels on the road. It’s powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine that produces 130 kW and 270 Nm of torque. Paired with a smooth 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the SUV accelerates effortlessly, reaching 100 km/h in just 8 seconds. The three driving modes – Eco, Comfort, and Sport – allow drivers to tailor their experience, and the suspension strikes an impressive balance between comfort and control.
While some cars in this category tend to feel overly firm or disconnected, the Emzoom R-Style manages to glide over imperfections without feeling overly soft. It’s a polished driving experience that feels far more refined than one might expect.
Ride quality is often a weak point for budget-friendly SUVs, but not here. The Emzoom R-Style tackles uneven roads with confidence, and its suspension soaks up bumps with minimal fuss. GAC Motor’s MegaWave Power technology contributes to its smooth performance, and the fuel efficiency, rated at a claimed 6.2 L/100 km, is another bonus for budget-conscious drivers. It’s a car that excels in city traffic and open highways alike, making it versatile for various driving scenarios.
However, it’s not all perfection. The multitude of features, while impressive, can feel a bit overwhelming at times. The ambient lighting, for instance, is customizable to a degree that borders on excessive, and the sheer number of options for adjusting the infotainment and climate controls might leave some drivers fumbling initially. That said, these are minor nitpicks in an otherwise stellar package.
From a value perspective, the GS3 Emzoom R-Style is difficult to fault. Priced at R549 900, it comes with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan. These terms provide peace of mind, making it a strong contender in its segment. Add to this the impressive build quality and thoughtful engineering, and it’s easy to see why the Emzoom could be a game-changer for GAC Motor in South Africa.
GAC’s decision to partner with the Salvador Caetano Group for local distribution ensures a robust support network, and this move could help alleviate concerns about aftersales service – a common hurdle for newer brands in South Africa. With a growing dealership presence and an emphasis on customer satisfaction, GAC seems poised to make a significant impact.
