By Otsile Kadiege

In August, GAC Motors South Africa opened shop in Mzansi and launched their first-ever model in the country – the sporty GS3 Emzoom. The automaker is now ready to add yet another new model to their local lineup with a bigger cross-over SUV – the Emkoo.

Exterior design

Like its smaller stablemate, the new Emkoo boasts a bold and sporty look. Highlights include V-shaped titanium-tungsten alloy strips with 12 bars, slim Matrix LED headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights, contrasting wheel arches, flush door handles, roof rails and wheel sizes ranging between 18- and 19-inches.

At the rear, the Emkoo sports a Mecha-style rear spoiler, lightsaber-inspired LED taillights, vertically arranged faux exhaust tips and a contrasting rear diffuser. The Emkoo measures 4 680mm in length, 1 670mm in height, 1 901mm in width and has a wheelbase of 2 750mm.

Interior design and technology

Inside, the new Emkoo a modern design with seemingly premium materials. Noteworthy features include a three spoke multifunctional steering wheel which was copied from its GS3 Emzoom sibling, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display unit and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. You also get a floating centre console with switch gears lifted from its stablemate, a wireless charger, a standard panoramic sunroof and a 638 litres luggage capacity.

Safety and assistance systems

The Emkoo’s advanced safety technologies and comprehensive protection features include: lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, a 360-Degree Camera System and 6 airbags.

Powertrain

Powering the Emkoo is the same 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine found in the GS3 Emzoom. Like the GS3 it also delivers 130kW and 270Nm. It’s also paired with a 7-speed wet DCT gearbox and has a claimed fuel consumption of 6.4l/100km. It has a fuel 55 litre fuel tank and GAC claims it will avail 859km when filled to the brim.

Pricing

Emkoo Executive 1.5l TGDI – R599,900

Emkoo Executive-Plus 1.5l TGDI – R659,900