Launched: New GAC GS3 Emzoom CKD Variants – From RM103,800

Local GAC Motor assemblers and distributors WTCA has completed its localised (CKD) GS3 Emzoom crossover line-up by introducing two new variants last weekend. 

Local assembler and distributors of the GAC Motor brand WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA) has expanded the line-up for its locally assembled (CKD) GAC GS3 Emzoom compact crossover model. Two additional variants were introduced last weekend at the brand’s roadshow in IOI Mall, Puchong.

As a refresher, WTCA first previewed the GS3 Emzoom back in Dec last year before officially launching it in fully imported (CBU) guise in April with two variants – ‘Exclusive’ and ‘Premium R’. The latter range-topper was then re-launched in CKD form in Aug and saw a slight reduction in price too.

Besides re-launching the GS3 Emzoom in localised (CKD) Exclusive guise, WTCA also introduced a brand new Standard variant during their roadshow at IOI Mall, Puchong last weekend.

Now, WTCA has re-launched the Exclusive variant mentioned in CKD form too, and it serves as a mid-spec offering in the model’s range. New here though is a base ‘Standard’ variant, and it’s positioned as the entry-level offering with a bargain basement price tag to match.

Despite the varying levels of kit and amenities we’re about to detail, what remains unchanged across all three variants are their shared powertrain. It consists of a 1.5-litre 4-cyl TGDI turbo petrol mill outputting 177 PS and 270 NM. Paired with 7-speed DCT automatic, drive goes to the front wheels, promising 0-100 KM/H dashes in 8 secs and a claimed average fuel economy of 5.9 litres/100 KM.

GS3 Emzoom Premium R variant pictured. All three variants share the same 1.5-litre 4-cyl TGDI turbo petrol lump and 7-speed DCT automatic transmission pairing.

A quick glance at the specification sheet shows the new and localised (CKD) Exclusive variant being virtually unchanged from its initial CBU form. AS a refresher this trimline makes do without the range-topping Premium R variant’s additions such as its full aerokit and active sports exhaust.

Omitted too are automatic headlamp and windscreen wiper activation, electric folding side mirrors, panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, power-adjustable driver seat, rear sear centre armrest and headrest, cabin ambient lighting, lit-up front visors, wireless charging pad, Android phone mirroring suite, USB-C charging ports, and a 4-speaker audio setup – instead of 6 – amongst other things.

As for safety, the Exclusive variant also makes do with two less airbags (side curtains), hill descent control, as well as front parking sensors. This variant still boasts a Level 2-rated ADAS suite, albeit sans auto high-beam assist and semi-autonomous parking. Naturally, all these omissions does see the Exclusive variant command a price tag of RM116,800 – RM10,000 less than the Premium R.

The new Standard variant sees the most omissions and downgraded kit on board, but this also perhaps explains its bargain basement price tag of RM103,800.

Things get even more ‘Spartan’ in the new Standard guise. Omissions here include a switch down from leatherette seats and steering to fabric and polyurethane respectively, the deletion of automatic climate control and rear vent for a traditional single-zone manual unit, basic 2-speaker audio setup, along with a switch to a smaller 3.5-inch analogue instrument display (versus a 7-inch digital unit).

As for safety and driving convenience, the Standard guise also sees just two airbags lining its cabin, regular reverse camera instead of a surround view unit, as well as a switch down to a passive cruise control suite instead of an intelligent of adaptive unit. Moreover, this base-spec guise has no ADAS features, but still offers both a blind spot monitor and tyre pressure monitoring system.

Naturally, this much omissions explains the bargain basement pricing of RM103,800 set by WTCA for this trimline. Perhaps a saving grace here is the fact that said bargain price tag still includes a 5-year or 150,000 KM vehicle warranty plus a separate 7-year or 180,000 KM engine and transmission warranty – the same offered in the other two higher variants.

Besides introducing new CKD variants, WTCA also announced popular Chinese language radio jock Jack Lim as its new brand ambassador, and launched its 'Rev Up' sales campaign featuring sizeable discounts for the GS3 Emzoom.

Besides launching these new CKD variants, WTCA also introduced their new GAC Motor Malaysia brand ambassador in the form of popular local Chinese radio jock Jack Lim. Additionally, the firm also announced a special ‘Rev Up’ sales campaign for the now-completed GS3 Emzoom CKD range.

The latter campaign, running until Dec 31 at all 20 GAC Motor showrooms nationwide, sees WTCA offering discounts of RM5,000 (Exclusive) and RM7,000 (Premium R) for purchases of the GS3 Emzoom.