GAC Motor announced its arrival in South Africa in August 2024 with the introduction of the GS3 EMZOOM, a feisty subcompact SUV. The Chinese brand has since added even a finer model, the GAC EMKOO.
Available in two models, the Executive and Executive-Plus, the EMKOO is set to turn heads in style-influenced Mzansi with its standout fusion of technology and aesthetic appeal.
Despite the late entry into the SA market, GAC Motor’s mother company, the state-owned GAC (Guangzhou Automobile Group), is an old hat in car manufacturing after its founding in the 1950s. The EMKOO therefore arrives in SA at the right time, when modern technology in Chinese automaking has surpassed all known standards.
Exterior
The EMKOO has a flat design, with 12 bars arranged in a “V” shape and decorated with titanium-tungsten alloy strips. The design highlights the vehicle’s refined craftsmanship.
The matrix LED headlights are notable for their sleek design, with a thickness of less than 20mm. They offer a substantial improvement in brightness, delivering a combined total of 2 650 lumens for both low and high beams – 25% more than earlier lens units.
At the rear, the EMKOO continues to impress with its innovative tail light design. The “lightsaber-inspired” LED taillights, arranged vertically in an “X” pattern, feature 128 embedded LED bulbs, and include a music sync function, adding a dynamic touch.
Complementing the futuristic look on the outside is a Mecha-Style spoiler, further enhancing the vehicle’s aggressive and cutting-edge appearance.
Interior
The EMKOO takes comfort to a new level with its interior design, drawing inspiration from oriental philosophy to create a soothing and cosy cabin environment. The blend of traditional elegance and modern sophistication ensures that the interior is as visually striking as it is comfortable.
The cabin is a technological marvel, featuring a vibrant and interactive display system composed of three screens: a 10.1” touch screen, up to a 10” LCD instrument cluster display, and a Head-Up Display (HUD) on the Executive-Plus. This array of screens not only enhances functionality but also adds a dynamic and immersive element to the driving experience, making it engaging and enjoyable.
To add to the EMKOO’s appeal, the panoramic sunroof is added as a standard feature.
Performance & Safety
The EMKOO features a robust and efficient powertrain with its 1.5 TGDI MegaWave engine paired with a 7WDCT transmission. This “golden powertrain” not only enhances driving pleasure but also ensures high efficiency and low fuel consumption. The engine delivers 130kw of power, with a maximum torque of 270 Nm. This combination guarantees an exhilarating driving experience while keeping fuel usage economical at 6.4L/100km.
The EMKOO’s MegaStar chassis ensures a driving experience characterised by smooth and stable handling. This advanced chassis system combines strength and refinement with a McPherson Independent Suspension in front, which provides superior stability and responsiveness, enhancing handling and ride comfort, and a Multi-Link Independent Suspension at the rear, which reduces impact and residual vibrations, contributing to a smoother ride and better control. Together, these hydraulic suspensions are designed to effectively manage road impacts and vibrations, making every journey more comfortable and enjoyable.
Its advanced safety technologies and comprehensive protection features include:
Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) – it integrates features such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking to enhance safety and prevent accidents.
360-Degree Camera System – provides a complete view around the vehicle, aiding in parking and manoeuvering in tight spaces.
Traction Control System – helps prevent wheel spins and maintains grip on challenging road surfaces, improving overall control.
Airbag System – Includes 6 airbags strategically placed to provide maximum protection in the event of a collision.
Salvador Caetano Auto has signed a distribution and retail deal with GAC Motor to handle its operations in SA.
Pricing
EMKOO Executive 1.5l TGDI R599 900
EMKOO Executive-Plus 1.5l TGDI R659 900
With a 5-year/150 000 km manufacturer’s warranty, as well as an impressively long (distance-wise) 5-year/100 000 km service plan.
