The introduction of the GAC Motor GS3 Emzoom to the South African market is likely to elicit more than a few double takes from prospective car buyers. While the name may seem unusual at first, it quickly becomes an afterthought when one considers the striking diamond-cut design, the refined interior and the extensive list of features that come as standard across the competitively priced range.
But what exactly is GAC Motor? A subsidiary of China’s GAC Group, GAC Motor was established in 2008 and has rapidly ascended the ranks to become one of the country’s leading vehicle manufacturers. With a workforce of 113 000, the company’s impressive trajectory earned it the 165th spot on the 2023 Fortune Global 500 list.
In an effort to solidify its presence in Africa, GAC Motor has partnered with the Salvador Caetano Group to handle distribution and retail operations in South Africa. The Salvador Caetano Group, a Portuguese company with extensive interests in automotive, aeronautics and bus assembly, also operates a Toyota manufacturing facility in Portugal. With 8 300 employees and a retail presence in 43 countries, the group is well-positioned to support GAC Motor’s expansion in South Africa.
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“The GS3 Emzoom is just the beginning,” says Lesley Ramsoomar, Managing Director of GAC Motor in South Africa. “We plan to introduce two more models over the next 12 months, and we’re finalising a dealer network that will see 20 dealerships operational by the end of the year, with a goal of reaching 40 strategically located outlets across the country.”
The Emzoom itself is a completely new design, developed from the ground up with GAC’s star diamond shadow concept. This design features sharp crease lines on the exterior, creating dynamic reflections and refractions as the light shifts or the vehicle moves.
The five-seater SUV also sports distinctive taillights, a sporty rear wing, concealed door handles, and a unique flying-mecha front face that ensures it stands out on the road.
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Inside, the GS3 Emzoom is designed with comfort and practicality in mind. The cabin seats five comfortably, with ample legroom in the back thanks to a flat floor design. There are 21 flexible storage compartments, making it a versatile choice for various travel needs.
The vehicle also features an advanced dual-screen dashboard, including a 10.25-inch multi-functional touchscreen powered by an 8-core chipset. A range of practical features, such as keyless entry, push-button start, and dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, add to the vehicle's appeal.
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Under the bonnet, the GS3 Emzoom is powered by a 1,5-litre turbo-charged four-cylinder petrol engine, delivering 130 kW and 270 Nm of torque. Thanks to GAC’s MegaWave Power technology, the vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8 seconds while maintaining a fuel efficiency of 6,2 L/100 km (WLTP).
The SUV offers three driving modes—Eco, Comfort, and Sport—each tailored to different driving preferences.
During the launch event, only the R-Style derivative was available for test driving, but it left a strong impression.
The 140-kilometre drive highlighted the Emzoom’s quiet cabin, with minimal wind, road, or tyre noise, and the engine's responsiveness across all three driving modes. In Sport mode, the steering firms up, providing accurate feedback through corners, suggesting the Emzoom could handle more aggressive driving with ease.
“This partnership marks the start of a fruitful collaboration, helping us accelerate our international business,” said Wang Shunsheng, Deputy General Manager of GAC Motor. “Together with the Salvador Caetano Group, we aim to introduce high-quality vehicles to the South African market, supported by a robust dealership network focused on customer satisfaction.”
The GS3 Emzoom comes with a 5-year/150,000 km warranty and a 5-year/60,000 km service plan, with service intervals every 15,000 km. This comprehensive coverage, coupled with the vehicle’s strong performance and appealing design, makes the GS3 Emzoom a noteworthy contender in the South African SUV market.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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