GAC unveils the Emkoo SUV at 2023 Manila International Auto Show

After a brief period away from the Manila International Auto Show, GAC Motors Philippines is back and has unveiled its latest addition to its product lineup, the Emkoo. 

The GAC Emkoo is a five-door compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) that features unique, sleek, and sporty styling along with a suite of tech features. First launched in China in 2022, the Emkoo is leading the charge for the brand’s global SUV lineup, bearing GAC’s ‘diamond cut’ design philosophy.

Measuring 4,680mm long, with a width of 1,901mm, and a height of 1,670mm on a 2,750mm wheelbase, the Emkoo offers exceptional value due to its size. While the Emkoo is available with a seven-seat configuration overseas, the model we’ll be getting here in the country are two variants of the five-seater model. 

Moving to the back, the rear of the Emkoo sports the same aggressive and chiseled styling in the front. Featuring mechanical-looking design elements and a ridged high-level brake light, the sharply raked rear window of the Emkoo emerges from underneath a substantial spoiler. Completing the futuristic appearance, the Emkoo features chunky faux exhaust outlets situated on both sides of the bumper. Situated between the tailpipes is a burly rear diffuser which is in line with the Emkoo’s futuristic design philosophy.

The Emkoo offered here in the Philippines will be available in two variants, named GE and GL. Both variants will be available with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine capable of putting out 177 hp and 270 Nm of torque paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.  The GE is the entry-level version while the GL is the range-topping variant of the Emkoo.

Sharing the stage with the new Emkoo is the GE variant of the Empow sports sedan. The GE variant is the range-topping version of GAC’s agile Empow sports sedan. If you need a refresher on what the Empow is capable of here are the highlights. Starting with the motor, the Empow’s beating heart is a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine capable of producing 174 hp and 270 Nm of torque. This powerhouse of an engine is paired with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission which sends power to the front wheels. 

What separates the GE from the rest of the Empow lineup are a bunch of features that will take the overall experience of driving the Empow up a few notches. First of these unique features are the Empow’s paddle shifters. The addition of paddle shifters provides an additional level of control whether you’re on twisty mountain roads or on the track. In addition, paddle shifters provide a much more tactile experience while driving as opposed to leaving the job of shifting to the car’s automatic gearbox, a plus for those who appreciate the pleasure of driving.

In addition to the flappy paddles, the GE variant has other features which elevate it from the other variants in the Empow range. These include stylish 18-inch rims, bespoke front, and rear bumpers, and unique exterior accents which can be found both outside and inside the car. Aside from the exterior enhancements, GAC has also equipped ambient lighting to the interior, which gives the GE Empow a unique touch. Dual-zone automatic climate control is also present in this trim and you also get powered and heated side mirrors.

If you’re wondering what GAC is asking for their products, GAC’s introductory prices for the Emkoo are P1,413,000 for the GE and P1,553,000 for the GL. On the other hand, the much-awaited top trim Empow is priced at P1,348,000.