2019 GAC GS8 Review: A Seven-Passenger SUV

Introduction

Every time I test a new Chinese vehicle, my belief grows that these cars will soon become commonplace on our roads. Anyone who doubts this should remember how we once viewed Korean brands like Hyundai and Kia when they first entered our markets, compared to how we perceive them today. The vehicle I'm reviewing today is further evidence of the commitment of Chinese manufacturers to compete in global markets. Let me introduce you to the GAC GS8, a seven-passenger SUV, and see what it offers us at a price of AED 125,900 for the GL version.

About GAC

Before diving into the details of the GS8, let me provide a brief overview of GAC. Founded in 1995, GAC is one of the top ten automotive manufacturers in China. By 2011, GAC ranked sixth among the largest car producers in China, having manufactured 724,000 vehicles that year. GAC leads in China with partnerships with foreign manufacturers, boasting five collaborations, including significant partnerships with Honda, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, and Toyota. GAC focuses on manufacturing personal vehicles under the Trumpchi brand, but it also produces commercial vehicles like large transport buses and trucks. Notably, GAC utilizes many parts from well-known suppliers to ensure the quality of critical components in its vehicles.

Exterior Design

The first thing I can say is that, unlike some Chinese cars that seem to mimic well-known designs, the GS8 offers a distinct appearance. Its design is simple, with lines that enhance the sense of width and length.

• Front Grille: Features horizontal chrome lines that accentuate the vehicle's width.
• Headlights: The GL version comes with LED front lights, featuring four separate LED lights with daytime running lights and LED fog lamps.
• Wheels: 19-inch wheels equipped with Continental brakes.

The side lines are straight with chrome trim around the window frame. At the rear, there is a chrome line below the rear glass and a metallic-colored bumper at the bottom with exhaust outlets. One detail I appreciated is the rear LED lights, which have a very distinctive design.

The trunk opens electronically with the key, and the seats can be folded to increase storage space. The vehicle can be started remotely and unlocked automatically when you approach it.

Interior Design

The GAC GS8 features quality materials that rival those of Korean and Japanese cars, with notable craftsmanship. The GL version comes with leather seats with electric adjustments, soft materials on the dashboard and doors, and wood accents.

Technological Specifications

This vehicle is equipped with keyless entry and ignition, along with an information display in the center of the instrument cluster. A 10-inch touchscreen controls the entertainment system, navigation, Bluetooth, and supports Apple CarPlay.

Other technological specifications include:

• Electric parking brakes with auto-hold feature.
• Heated and cooled front seats.
• Full panoramic sunroof.
• Four cameras and 360-degree sensors.
• Two additional cameras on the mirrors.
• Adaptive cruise control and wireless phone charging.

The vehicle is equipped with safety systems that include six airbags from the well-known supplier TRW.

Driving Experience

The 2019 GAC GS8 is renowned for its quiet ride and noise isolation. It features a 2.0-liter turbo engine producing 198 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 10 seconds.

The vehicle offers various driving modes, with a fuel consumption rate of 6.8 liters per 100 km.

Conclusion

Cars like the GAC GS8 have proven that Chinese manufacturers are on the right track. We should not judge any Chinese vehicle solely because it is from China, especially after witnessing how they have benefited from the expertise of other companies and suppliers. The prices for the GS8 start at AED 99,900, with the version we have today priced at AED 125,900.