Ten years ago, I would have advised against buying a Chinese brand out of caution, not because I was ‘hating’. Fast forward to today, my perspective has changed drastically. I now suggest going with whatever suits you, as there are no bad cars on our roads. To die-hard fans of established brands, I recommend checking out Chinese brands before making up their minds.
Last week, I found myself following my GPS to Stay by Inimitable, a hidden location in Muldersdrift, northwest of Gauteng.
I thought the names of both the venue and the car were quite interesting. Despite a GPS malfunction, I was met by a beautiful sight – the venue and the car.
We were invited to preview and test drive the new GS3 EMZOOM from GAC Motor. Although it has been launched internationally, it’s new to our market, if you catch my drift, as the 2000s would say.
GAC Motor is a newcomer aiming to take a chunk of the pie of the South African motoring market. The company is led by Leslie Ramsoomar, a veteran of the South African motor industry.
When he left Stellantis a few months ago, his destination was unknown until it was officially announced that he would lead the new brand.
You see, South Africans have developed a palate for Chinese cars. In fact, I’d say the country has woken up to the value for money that Chinese brands offer.
I arrived at the launch with an open mind, expecting something decent, but I was not prepared for what I found.
At first glance, the GAC GS3 EMZOOM might seem like any other modern medium SUV or large hatchback, but once inside, you’re struck by the craftsmanship that has gone into its creation.
The EMZOOM is the first of many GAC Motor products to be launched in South Africa in the near and distant future.
The interior
The car’s interior is impressive. At a glance, the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the dashboard immediately highlights the high level of craftsmanship that went into this vehicle.
The details on the seats and centre console clearly reflect my observation.
My co-driver and I are quite surprised but not entirely. We agreed that GAC Motor will quickly establish a place in the market for their products, just like their competitors from the same country.
The Drive
Under the hood of the GS3 EMZOOM is a 1.5 turbocharged engine paired with a capable 7-speed automatic dual-speed gearbox.
This is where the GS3 EMZOOM stands out. In cars with small engines and DCT gearboxes, the engine and gearbox often struggle to communicate effectively. However, with the GS3 EMZOOM, I was impressed by how smoothly and effortlessly the gearbox shifted gears. I had driven another Chinese brand compact SUV that struggled to find gears – not a problem with GS3 EMZOOM.
Technology and safety
Many car manufacturers have raised the bar for technology and safety, especially in this segment, and the GS3 EMZOOM is no exception. It features a surround-view camera system and a range of Level 2 ADAS functions, providing a safe and intuitive driving experience.
Other convenience features include keyless entry, push-button start, ambient lighting, multiple charging ports, and dual-zone automatic air conditioning.
Chinese brands have become a mainstream part of the South African automotive market. The question now is not whether to buy a Chinese car, but which one offers the best value.
Pricing
The GS3 EMZOOM is available in three trim levels which are Comfort, Executive and R-Style.
GS3 EMZOOM Comfort: R469 900
GS3 EMZOOM EXECUTIVE: R499 900
GS3 EMZOOM R-STYLE: R549 900
