Peter Lyon
February 14, 2024
Many readers will already know that China’s GAC has two models—GS3 Emzoom and Aion Y Plus—on their way to Malaysian dealerships. Now, a third model—the Emkoo—is destined to join the lineup in the second half of 2024.
This new model will boast a futuristic interior furnished with modern design accents and cutting-edge technologies, as well as ultramodern exterior styling. We expect this SUV to be powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine.
Based on the brand’s Global Platform Modular Architecture (GPMA), the Emkoo is a C-segment SUV that measures 1,901 mm in width, 1,670 mm in height, and 4,680 mm in length, with a wheelbase of around 2,750 mm. For the record, the Emkoo is 70 mm taller, 270 mm longer, and 51 mm wider than the GS3 Emzoom B-segment SUV.
The new GAC Emkoo is certain to turn heads due to its chunky, angular design. It has a V-shaped lighted grille with twelve bars on either side boasting beautifully crafted stripes made of titanium-tungsten alloy.
At the back end, ”Lightsaber-inspired” LED taillights dominate the rear profile. The clever arrangement of the lights’ four sections results in an “X” design at the back. The tail lights have 126 integrated LEDs and a music synchronisation feature. The rear kit also includes a diffuser with two integrated exhaust tips and a “mecha-style” spoiler with built-in light-emitting components.
The Emkoo has leather seats, a 10.1-inch floating screen, a digital instrument cluster, a crystal shift knob, and a D-shaped three-spoke steering wheel. Given what other markets will be getting, we expect the Malaysian-spec model to employ Apple CarPlay, a 12-speaker Yamaha sound system, automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof with electric sunshades, air quality sensor, and ventilated front seats with power-adjustable switches.
GAC are also keeping us guessing as to which powertrain we will get. However, given the specs offered in other markets, we predict that the Emkoo will get three choices including a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol producing 177 ps, a 252ps 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit and a hybrid setup pairing a 138 ps 2.0-litre engine and a 182 ps electric motor. Drivers will be able to choose from either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, an eight-speed gearbox, or a dedicated hybrid transmission.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
The upcoming GAC Emkoo will rival the Proton X70, Honda CR-V, and Mazda CX-5 with its stylish looks, futuristic hi-tech interior, and strong powertrain lineup. And its pricing looks to be competitive too. Warisan Tan Chong Automotif (WTCA), the official distributor of GAC is expected to launch the Emkoo in the second half of 2024. As for the pricing, we can get a rather clear idea by looking at the Philippines market, where the SUV ranges between approximately RM 110,609 and RM 127,652.
