GAC Emkoo launched locally; here’s what you need to know

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s fiercely competitive SUV market, specifically the C-segment, has a new player, the GAC Emkoo. With brands like Proton, Chery, Haval, and Honda already catering for consumers with impressive offerings, this move by GAC Malaysia is surely bold. For Malaysian car buyers and auto enthusiasts, this particular launch is quite attention-seeking - a Chinese brand aiming to bridge the gap between mainstream and premium SUVs.

GAC’s local lineup already includes the smaller GS3 Emzoom; however, with the launch of the all-new Emkoo, the brand aims to attract buyers who want an upgrade from their existing or B-segment SUVs, such as the Proton X70 and Haval H6.

The success of a model depends on several factors, including pricing, features, modern technology, and after-sales support. Luckily, Emkoo ticks all the boxes and could reshape the mid-SUV class in the country.

Also Read: GAC Malaysia opens pre-bookings for EMKOO SUV and M8 PHEV MPV

Wanna know more about the all-new GAC Emkoo? Here are the key details -

Where & when it all started?

The GAC Emkoo made its debut last year, standing alongside the Aion Y Plus and GS3 Emzoom. Back then, it created a lot of buzz in the market with its striking design and ultra-high-tech features. Since then, this Chinese SUV has been showcased several times to increase awareness. Additionally, the pre-ordering period was open to buyers throughout this time.

Delivery timeline?

Delivery for the Emkoo SUV is expected to begin before the end of this year, depending on the demand and production schedules at the automaker’s local assembly plant.

Powertrain & performance details

The Emkoo is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged TGDI engine making a maximum power of 177 PS and a peak torque of 270 Nm. The power is delivered to the front wheels (it’s an FWD car) via a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, which makes it suitable for both city and highway driving.

As for fuel efficiency, the official figure suggests it would be around 6.2 km/l. Thus placing it competitively among its competitors.

Exterior dimensions & design

The Emkoo sits on the Global Platform Modular Architecture (GPMA) that also supports the smaller Emzoom. As for dimensions, it falls on the larger end of the segment, measuring 4,680 mm in length, 1,901 mm in width, and 1,670 mm in height. As for wheelbase, the car measures 2,750 mm, which is slightly larger than the popular Proton X70.

Adding to its commanding road presence, the SUV's exterior boasts a futuristic front fascia with aggressive LED lighting units, a “Borderless V-Shape Grille”, a clamshell bonnet, heavily kinked D-pillars, flush pop-out door handles, and silver roof rails. The rear end benefits from slim taillights and dual integrated exhaust exits. Irrespective of the model picked, Emzoom features 19-inch ten-spoke two-tone alloys wrapped in Continental EcoContact 6 tyres.

Colour options

All GAC Emkoo models are offered in five colour options -

• Super Star Silver
• Graphite Grey
• Asphalt Black
• Frost White
• New Star Lake Green

Cabin comfort & modern tech

The Emkoo features a spacious cabin wrapped in premium upholstery (available in high-end trims), ensuring the utmost comfort for the driver and passengers. As for design, the SUV continues to showcase a future-forward look.

As for modern technology, all Emkoo models feature a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, touch-sensitive volume and fan speed controls, a 50-watt Qi wireless charger, and a crystal gear selector. The list doesn’t end here, but it would be better to discuss features as per trim.

Emkoo Premium	Emkoo Premium Pro
Keyless entry Push-button start Single-zone automatic air con with rear air vents Seven-inch digital instrument display Six-way power-adjustable and ventilated driver’s seat Faux leather upholstery Six speakers 360-degree camera system with a transparency function Powered tailgate (for first 500 customers only)	Panoramic glass roof with a power sunshade 12-way driver and four-way passenger power-adjustable seats (both with ventilation) Heated door mirrors with auto-dipping Air ioniser Multi-colour ambient lighting Powered tailgate

 

Safety and driver assistance

Did you know that GAC Emkoo achieved an overall score of 84.96 points and a 5-star rating by ASEAN NCAP? The SUV excels in child protection, occupant safety, and safety assist technologies.

Coming to the SUV's safety features, both the variants come with a suite of driver assists, including -

• Adaptive cruise control with stop and go
• Speed limit assist
• Autonomous emergency braking
• Lane centring assist
• Automatic high beam

The Premium Pro variant comes with a few additional features, including a tyre pressure monitoring system, six airbags, and stability control.

Variants & Price

Premium	Starts from RM 123,800
Premium Pro	RM 133,800

 

Please note that the price mentioned above includes a 5-year/150,000 km warranty and a 7-year/180,000 km powertrain warranty, but does not include insurance.

At this price range, the Emkoo directly rivals the likes of Cherry Tiggo 7 Pro, Proton X70, and Haval H6.

Also Read: Proton e.MAS 5 coming soon - Is this Malaysia’s next game-changing EV?

Any early bird deals?

Yes, the first 500 customers will benefit from a cash rebate of RM4,000 and a RM10,000 accessory package, including a front & rear dash cams, luggage tray, side scuff plates, V-Kool solar tinting (for Premium), sporty pedals, and security tinting (for Premium Pro).

Overall, the GAC Emkoo is a bold move by the automaker to strengthen its foothold in the Malaysian market. Its key strengths are competitive pricing, a 5-star safety rating, extended warranty coverage, and premium features. However, that doesn’t mean it’s all a bed of roses for the car, as it faces challenges, such as an uncertain resale value for now, and building brand loyalty & trust is still in progress.

Also Read: 2025 XPENG G6 EV SUV launched in Malaysia – Faster charging, new AWD, redesigned Interior, from RM179k