Another new brand has entered the South African automotive scene. The Chinese GAC Motor kicked off its presence in the country with the launch of the GAC GS3 EMZOOM SUV/Crossover. GAC Motor has signed a strategic agreement with the Salvador Caetano Group to handle distribution and retail operations in South Africa.
What is it?
Positioned as a "next-generation SUV", the GS3 EMZOOM is set to captivate South African consumers with its combination of aesthetics, practicality and quality, according to the company.
GAC Motor, a subsidiary of GAC Group, was founded in 2008. GAC Motor has rapidly grown into one of China’s leading vehicle manufacturers, boasting a workforce of 113 000 employees and earning a spot at number 165 on the 2023 Fortune Global 500 list.
Exterior:
The GS3 EMZOOM features a sporty, dynamic design with sharp lines and eye-catching taillights to the sporty rear wing and hidden door handles.
The GS3 EMZOOM's flying-mecha front face design includes integrated LED headlights, featuring 18 LED bulbs for daytime running lights. The vehicle’s sleek sides are accentuated by a double waistline element, and the taillights, with 66 LED bulbs, create a 3D effect, complemented by the rear wing.
Interior:
Inside, it offers ergonomic seating and space for five adults as well as a spacious trunk.
The GS3 EMZOOM’s dual-screen dashboard includes a high-performance central console powered by an 8-core chipset and a 10.25-inch multi-functional touchscreen. The range also features an LCD instrument cluster of up to 7 inches, a surround-view camera system and a suite of Level 2 ADAS functions, ensuring a safe and intuitive driving experience.
The GS3 EMZOOM is designed with functionality in mind, offering keyless entry, push-button start, ambient cabin lighting, numerous charging ports, and dual-zone automatic air-conditioning.
The R-Style model, with its diamond-designed gear shift, sporty 18-inch wheels and super-size panoramic openable sunroof, adds extra flair.
Engine:
Under the hood, the GS3 EMZOOM is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, generating 130 kW and 270 Nm of torque. Drivers can choose between three driving modes: Eco, Comfort and Sport, catering to various driving preferences.
The GS3 EMZOOM’s 7-speed automatic transmission with wet dual-clutch ensures smooth, rapid gear shifts.
Prices:
GS3 EMZOOM 1.5L T Comfort (R469 900), GS3 EMZOOM 1.5L T Executive (R499 900), and the GS3 EMZOOM 1.5L T R-Style (R549 900).
Additionally, the vehicle comes with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan with service intervals every 15 000 km.
Chery South Africa says it is accelerating its growth in the local car-rental industry, with its national passenger vehicle market share reaching 6.2% in the past month. As interest in Chery’s range of vehicles continues to grow for consumers and fleet operators, the brand is seeing increasing interest from rental car companies nationwide.
Ulterio Motiv will exhibit a total of three vehicles at this year’s Hankook Land Cruiser Festival. Held annually, the Land Cruiser Festival caters not only to Toyota Land Cruiser enthusiasts, but also to various companies that supply products, upgrades and equipment for these vehicles.
Following the launch of the family-orientated Ford Territory last year, Ford SA is set to raise the bar for its compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) with a decent value-for-money proposition with the imminent release of the Territory Dark Edition.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Following the launch of the family-orientated Ford Territory last year, Ford SA is set to raise the bar for its compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) with a decent value-for-money proposition with the imminent release of the Territory Dark Edition.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) and Studio One at Publicis Groupe Africa have reintroduced the Vitz under the banner: "Even more car. Less cash".
Honda Motor Southern Africa has launched its new, third-generation Honda Amaze, which made its global debut in India in December 2024.
