GAC MOTOR Philippines sustains its growth momentum with new distributor Astara, capping off the first quarter of the year with record retail sales and the expansion of its line-up in the country.
The company today announced overall retail sales for the first quarter grew by 228% compared to the same period last year, marking a new record for the brand in the market. This growth was driven by high demand for the EMPOW sports sedan, the all-new GS8 SUV, the GS4 compact SUV and the GN6 MPV.
“We continue to make headway with our plans since taking over the brand, driven by our line-up of vehicles that offer great value for money to our Filipino customers,” said Jun Cajayon, Brand Head of GAC MOTOR, Astara Philippines. “We at Astara are proud to work with GAC MOTOR in bringing these exceptional cars renowned for their modern design, fine craftsmanship, superior build quality, and cutting-edge technology. We remain fully committed to reach more customers nationwide together with our growing dealer family,” he added.
True to its promise of bringing in the best and the latest GAC MOTOR vehicles to the country, the company today launched the EMKOO, the brand’s newest SUV, and the GE variant of the EMPOW during the opening day of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) 2023.
THE EMKOO: INSPIRED BY THE FUTURE
The EMKOO is an ultra-modern five-seater compact SUV that impresses with its future-forward design and cutting-edge technologies, making it the most ideal vehicle for today’s generation.
First launched in China in 2022, the EMKOO is the embodiment of GAC MOTOR’s bold and futuristic new look for its global SUVs, underpinned by GAC’s Global Platform Modular Architecture and characterized by the brand’s pioneering styling, intelligent driving technologies and high-efficiency drivetrains.
“Today’s launch ushers in a new era of modern travel through GAC MOTOR’s vision of the future, brought to life by the bold styling and cutting-edge technology of the EMKOO. We are excited to change the game in the segment with this latest addition to our expanding line-up of vehicles,” said Cajayon.
Pioneering Styling
The overall design of the EMKOO is bold, captivating, and futuristic. Inspired by Sci-Fi elements, the industrial aesthetic design is defined by sharp feature lines, angular edges and a dynamic stance that add appeal to the distinct look and head-turning presence of the EMKOO.
The front face is borderless and adopts a V-shape grille, which is accentuated with sleek LED-powered headlights and DRLs. These lights may be programmed to light up individually and sequentially to provide a visual experience.
The futuristic vibe continues on the low-nose, high-tail side profile of the car with power mirrors and windows framed by chrome and black trims, hidden door handles that pop out when activated, and a swooping diagonal angle that cuts across the passenger doors. The avant-garde EMKOO sports a fast-back design, adorned with a uniquely-shaped high-level brake light, V-shape formation tail lights and dual vertical twin exhaust pipes. The compact five-seater SUV sits well on its 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, perfectly positioned, balanced and reassuring.
Inside, the EMKOO is highly sensorial. Intelligent technology is integrated into the cabin’s interior, which was given attention and texture to give passengers an immersive experience while on the road. Fine materials used throughout the cabin are meticulously-crafted such as the hand-sewn leather seats and high-quality finishes on the panels.
The EMKOO features a four-way adjustable multi-function steering wheel, a 10.1-inch multi-functional touchscreen with Apple CarPlay integration, speed-based volume adjustment, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a keyless start button. Other amenities include power adjust settings and ventilation for front row seats, automatic air-conditioning with second row vents, and configurable ambient lighting.
Safe and Intelligent Driving Technologies
The vehicle is equipped with various safety features, such as dual front and side curtain airbags, Electronic Stability Program, Hill Start Hold and Hill Descent controls, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It also comes with rear parking sensors and a surround view camera system to help drivers park with ease.
A host of Advanced Driving Assist Systems (ADAS) helps to ensure safe drives with the EMKOO, including Adaptive Cruise Control with Integrated Cruise Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Keep Assist among others.
High-Efficiency Drive Train
Powered by a 1.5 GDI turbo petrol engine, the EMKOO delivers a robust 177 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque, paired with a quick-shifting, seven-speed Wet Dual Clutch Transmission. The turbo-charged engine efficiently delivers a mileage of 16.1 km/L, one of the lowest fuel consumption ratings among engines of the same displacement level.
Pricing, Variants and Colors of the EMKOO
The EMKOO will be offered in two variants: GL and the entry-level GE at the following special introductory price points:
- 1.5L EMKOO GE – Php 1,413,000
- 1.5L EMKOO GL – Php 1,553,000
It will be available in five colors: Lagoon Green (launch color), Glacier White, Moon Grey, Starry Silver and Elegant Black.
THE GAC EMKOO IS UNVEILED AT THE MIAS
Standing from left to right: Astara Philippines Marketing Director Franz Decloedt, GAC Motor General Manager of Asian & African Region Sam Chu, GAC Motor Area Manager of Asian & African Region Calvin Cheng, GAC Motor Vice General Manager Wang Shunsheng, GAC Motor Philippines Brand Head Jun Cajayon, Astara Chief of Distribution for Europe Rafa Sainz, Astara Philippines Chief Financial Officer Adolfo Careaga, Astara Philippines Managing Director Raoul Picello, and Astara Managing Director for Southern Europe and the Philippines Jorge Belzunce.
GAC MOTOR’S FINEST AT THE MIAS 2023
Alongside the launches of the EMKOO, the brand’s display at the MIAS 2023 also showcases the muscular and powerful EMPOW, the premium and elegant all-new GS8 SUV, the versatile and reliable GS4 compact SUV, and the spacious and highly comfortable GN6 MPV.
EMPOW GE
First launched in January 2023, the EMPOW is characterized by futuristic lines and a sleek, muscle car-esque silhouette that gives the EMPOW an aggressive stance. The sculpted form and attention-grabbing design elements define its sporty profile, while its interiors, driving performance and technology are engineered to thrill the senses.
The top-of-the-line GE variant features 18-inch alloy wheels, paddle shifters, power folding mirrors, and a full suite of advanced driving assist systems and safety features. The EMPOW’s signature color, Matte Fighter Green, will be exclusive to the GE variant.
“We’ve seen huge demand for the EMPOW among our customers since launching three months ago. With the arrival of the GE variant, customers can fully experience the performance advantage without compromise of this great-looking sedan at a price point that is well within reach,” added Cajayon.
All-New GS8 SUV
The latest generation GS8 seven-seater SUV remains one of GAC MOTOR’s most successful nameplates, and has been upgraded to bring prestige to premium buyers. The brand’s flagship SUV combines form and function with its bold and futuristic design style, surging power and pioneering smart configurations.
The robust silhouette gives the all-new GS8 a stately and executive persona while the interior is designed to give comfort and convenience to the driver and passengers. It also comes with a wide array of convenience, safety, driving assistance and technology features. A 2.0 Turbo GDI engine, which provides a power of 248 horsepower and an upgraded torque of 400 Nm, is paired with a megastar chassis and a third generation 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth and balanced power.
GS4 SUV
The second-generation GS4 is a versatile and comfortable five-seater SUV that is spacious, comfortable, and easy to drive. The exterior sports a cleaner and more streamlined design, making it the ideal daily vehicle for work and play. The interior has been upgraded to be more stylish with its two-tone leather seats and panels, a Euro-inspired dashboard, and a multifunction infotainment touchscreen.
It is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged GDI gasoline engine that produces 166hp and 265Nm of torque, mated with a responsive and agile six-speed Aisin automatic transmission. The Euro-Standard Chassis helps the GS4 deliver supple suspension and balanced handling on the road while the body is made of ultra-strength hot-stamped steel that provides comprehensive protection for passengers and driver. It also comes with cruise control, tire pressure monitoring, LED headlights and DRLs, rear fog lights, and integrated roof rails.
GN6 MPV
GAC MOTOR’s interpretation of a comfortable and stylish MPV is realized in the GN6. Boasting of an abundance of space, a comfortable seating configuration and a highly-efficient engine, the GN6 delights both driver and passengers with an easy-to-drive MPV that is designed with a touch of finesse.
A wide grille and floating roofline give the exterior of the GN6 a classic look, complemented by a sturdy body structure that is supported by L-type McPherson strut suspension, a high rigidity torsion beam, and 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Captain’s chairs, generous space up to the third row, a power sunroof, and wide windows all add to the understated elegance and aesthetic appeal of the cabin.
Under the hood, the GN6 is powered by a 270T petrol engine that puts out 169 horsepower and 265 Nm of torque, equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. The GN6 also comes with front fog lamps, 12-volt power outlets, multiple airbags, Auto-hold parking brake, cruise control, and a host of other driving aids and convenience amenities.
SPECIAL PRICING DURING MIAS 2023
For a limited time only, GAC MOTOR Philippines is offering an additional PHP 20,000 discount on top of current promo offers on all vehicle reservations made at the MIAS or in any GAC dealership nationwide from April 13 to 16, 2023. Low-interest financing plans are also offered in partnership with Security Bank. Each vehicle purchased comes with five-year warranty on parts and services.
GAC MOTOR dealerships are located in Alabang, Bacoor, Davao, Pampanga, Pasig, and Tarlac. New showrooms are on track to be fully operational in Makati, Cainta, Quezon Avenue, Manila Bay, E. Rodriguez Sr., Batangas, Lipa City, Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Butuan by mid-year, bringing the brand closer to its target of 20 dealer appointments by year end.
Visit www.gacmotorph.com for updates and details.
1 DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-164389 Series of 2023
NOTE: The features shown in the photos may differ from the actual unit.
