It has been a busy year with the arrival of an array of Chinese vehicles of all shapes and sizes, some a bit like an old joke that amused my mates and I as youngsters – what is the difference between a budgie? One leg is both the same.
That bit of silliness does, however, neatly describe the ‘sameness’ of some of the offerings that came through the launch system and, as usual in situations like this, there was one that stood out from the crowd by daring to look different both inside and out.
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For me, this was the GAC Emkoo, the slightly odd name being a literal translation of the SUV's Chinese name,Yingkù, which means ‘Shadow Cool’ – and it is.
Distributed locally by Salvador Caetano, GAC Motor’s approach diverges from the prevailing Chinese automaker trend of focusing solely on affordability. Instead, the brand is targeting a premium market with high-end features and sophisticated design.
The Emkoo’s appearance is undeniably its most immediate selling point. With its aggressive and futuristic styling, the SUV boasts a unique aesthetic that turns heads wherever it goes. The front grille features a striking flat design, accentuated by 12 V-shaped titanium-tungsten alloy bars that radiate a sense of motion and precision. Rhythmic lighting effects further enhance this modern look, giving the vehicle a visual identity that feels years ahead of its time.
The matrix LED headlights are another standout feature, offering impressive brightness and efficiency. With a combined output of 2 650 lumens, these slim, less-than-20 mm-thick lights provide exceptional visibility, a 25% improvement over earlier designs.
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At the rear, the futuristic theme continues with ‘light sabre inspired’ vertical LED taillights arranged in an X-pattern. The intricate setup of 128 LEDs even includes a music sync function, delivering a touch of whimsy to its high-tech edge. Complementing these features is the Mecha-style spoiler.
Inside the Emkoo the cabin blends contemporary aesthetics with woft-touch materials, leather trim with contrast stitching and a radical look for the central dashboard with clever rotary knobs controlling the air vents.
The cockpit features three interactive screens: a 10,1-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, and a Head-Up Display (HUD). This trio of screens seamlessly integrates essential information and entertainment functions, ensuring the driver remains connected and informed without distraction.
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Other features include a panoramic sunroof that comes as standard across the range. Equipped with electric sunshades, it provides an expansive view of the sky, creating a spacious, open atmosphere. Dynamic ambient lighting further enhances the cabin’s mood, while the high-quality sound system delivers an immersive audio experience.
The Emkoo has a 1 901 mm-wide body and a 2 75 0mm wheelbase so passengers enjoy generous legroom, with the front seats offering 1 059 mm and the rear seats 990 mm. Adjustable rear seats and a flat rear floor improve comfort and flexibility and there is a boot capacity of 638 litres.
Under the bonnet, the Emkoo is powered by a 1,5-litre TGDI MegaWave engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. This combination produces 130 kW and 270 Nm of torque, delivering a test route consumption figure of 7.1 l/100 km (NEDC).
It rides on 235/55 R19 wheels and tyres and this combination gives a decent compromise between outright sportiness and pure comfort, with the sporty side of the equation keeping the vehicle in good shape when it is being lead-footed through the twisty bits.
The Emkoo’s MegaStar chassis ensures a comfortable and composed ride, bolstered by McPherson independent suspension in the front and multi-link independent suspension at the rear. Together, these components minimise road vibrations and enhance handling, ensuring the SUV feels refined and responsive in diverse driving conditions.
Just a pity the spare is a T145/90 R17 space saver and not a proper replacement.
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On the price ladder comparison, the Emkoo comes up against the Hyundai Grand Creta 1.5D Elite (R644 500), Ford Territory 1.8T Trend (R646 600) and Jaecoo J7 1.6T Inferno AWD (R679 900), with the Emkoo and Jaecoo well ahead in terms of interior tech while sharing similarity in almost all other areas across the group.
The SUV incorporates Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which include lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking. A 360-degree camera system aids parking and low-speed manoeuvres, while a traction control system ensures grip on challenging surfaces.
The Emkoo’s body structure employs submarine hull-grade hot-formed steel and ultra-high-strength steel for critical components. This robust framework, combined with six strategically placed crash bags, provides occupant protection.
I like the fact tech is limited to the things driver’s actually use on a daily basis and the operations thereof are simple, intuitive and easy to handle on the move and yes, the Emkoo is unashamedly premium-priced, further setting it apart in the growing mix of models on the market.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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