GAC Emzoom on route to Oz

CHINESE brand GAC (Guangzhou Automobile Group) is poised to arrive Down Under this month with its first three models, and it has now revealed specifications for its petrol-powered Emzoom compact SUV.

The baby of the three-model lineup, which also comprises the all-electric mid-size Aion V SUV and M8 PHEV MPV, the Emzoom will arrive in a single luxury trim that GAC says has been curated by its global design team to ensure it “stands out across an ultra-competitive segment”.

While Emzoom pricing has not yet been revealed, it will compete with cut-price players like the MG ZS ($26,990 driveaway), Chery Tiggo 4 ($29,990 driveaway), meaning a sub-$30,000 price tag is a possibility.

What we know for sure is that the Emzoom will be powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 125kW/270Nm, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission which the company claims can shift cogs in just 0.2 seconds, driving  the front wheels.

While performance figures have not been revealed, GAC has outlined a WLTP combined fuel use figure of 6.6 litre per 100km, making the Emzoom a relatively frugal sipper that’s on-par with the aforementioned competition.

Visually, the single-spec model features a distinctive winged grille, split LED headlights, and a panoramic sunroof that flows into a sharp tail wing atop a powered tailgate.

Inside, the Emzoom scores a 14.6-inch central LED screen, ambient lighting, six-speaker audio system, and wireless smartphone mirroring.

According to GAC, the Emzoom will feature the brand’s full suite of ADAS systems as well as scoring six airbags, but as of yet the brand has not shared an ANCAP rating – although the model has previously received a 5-star rating from the ASEAN NCAP (New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries).

Speaking with GoAuto, a representative at GAC confirmed the brand will launch with 12 official dealers, but that number will quickly rise to 20, and within three years the network is expected to grow to 90 dealers.

While the GAC brand is new to Australia, it boasts longstanding partnerships with existing brands like Toyota and Honda, and in China it sold more than two million vehicles last year alone.

Pricing and warranty details for its local lineup will be outlined at the time of launch, the company has confirmed, with the Emzoom, Aion V and M8 PHEV set to be unveiled on 18 November.