The GAC GS4 is the brand's entry to the compact crossover class, set to go against the likes of the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5. It is currently being globally produced by GAC under the Trumpchi brand. It uses the same platform found on the GA3 sedan in the international market. It debuted at the 2015 North American International Auto Show, where GAC received the "Innovation For The Future" award. The GS4's exterior design is cleanly executed, boxy with well planted body lines, along with some distinctive styling cues such as the floating roof concept along its side profile. Inside you are greeted with a cozy cabin, with its Audio & Video AM/FM Tuner capable head-unit with Auxiliary and USB connectivity, steering wheel controls mainly for the avoidance of driver distraction, a sunroof to let extra light in the cabin, and of course a premium touch of leather upholstered seats for that added upmarket feel to the GS4.
Convenience features of the GS4 include keyless entry, power steering, power windows and cruise control. Under the hood is a turbocharged 1.5-liter mill that produces 151 hp and 235 Nm of torque. This mill is paired to a 6-Speed automatic transmission. A four-wheel independent suspension system then provides the unity of comfort and driving dynamics. The GS4 also boasts a fleet of safety features, like its multiple airbags as standard (driver's airbag, front passenger's airbag, side Airbag, curtain Airbag). In addition, the cabin is blessed with ISOFIX child seat anchor points, ABS, EBD, stability control, electronic door locks, immobilizer, security alarm, and lane departure warning.
Launch
GAC Motor entered the Philippine market in December of 2021. Just like before it is made available in one variant that now comes powered by an uprated 1.5-liter turbocharged engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The new motor produces 166hp and 265 Nm of torque and sends power exclusively to the front wheels. The sole variant of the GS4 is available for P1,098,000 which is P70,000 cheaper than the previous model.
Platform, Chassis and Powertrain
The GAC GS4 is built on the GPMA (GAC global platform modular architecture) platform. The compact crossover is equipped with a Macpherson strut front suspension and multi-link beam rear suspension for a greater balance of control, comfort, and stability. The GS4 also features what GAC calls a “high-performance four-wheel disc braking system.”
The GS4 is powered by GAC’s 235T gasoline engine, a 1.5-liter motor that produces 151 hp and 235 Nm of torque. The Euro 5-compliant engine is paired with a 2WD 6-speed automatic transmission. Fuel capacity is listed at 50 liters.
Technology Features
The GAC GS4 compact crossover comes with a variety of advanced tech features. The model is equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system with a 360-degree camera and parking sensors. The GS4 also comes with cruise control, smart key and push button start, ECO button, remote-controlled trunk, anti-theft system, and engine immobilizer. Audio in the cabin gets a boost with an AV system, radio player, 6 speakers, AUX and USB ports, and steering wheel controls.
Exterior
The GAC GS4 has a length of 4,510 mm, a width of 1,852 mm, and a height of 1708 mm. AT 2650mm, the GS4’s wheelbase is a bit shorter than other cars in the segment. The front-end of the car features halogen headlights and LED daytime running lights, while the rear is fitted with a high-mounted LED brake lamp. The GS4 is fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels.
Interior
The GS4 seats 5 people, and the interior is plush with leather seats all around and an elegant black and brown trim. The seats are a 60:40 split and the second row seats are reclinable. The trunk capacity is listed at 450 L with the rear seats up, and 1410 L with the rear seats folded down. Other interior features include a power sunroof, central door locking, and second-row center armrest with cup holder.
Safety
The GS4 comes equipped with an abundance of safety features. This compact crossover boasts dual front and side airbags and impact sensing door locks. Front pre-tension and limit stress seatbelts await the driver and passenger, with three-point seatbelts in place for rear occupants. ISOFix child seat anchors and child safety door locks are also included.
Safe stopping for the GS4 is prioritized through the inclusion of an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). Other safety features include an electronic stability program, hydraulic brake assist, hydraulic-start hold control, hill descent control, and electronic parking brake.
GAC's GS4 is a compact crossover that wants to bring premium to the masses. Here's our review of the 2022 GAC GS4 in the Philippines on this episode of Behind the Wheel. Watch as Caco goes in-depth and on a drive with it. Know what's great about it and why it is deserving of being called a GAC.
