Google Tag

Showing posts with label Chinese. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chinese. Show all posts

Friday, July 4, 2025

Bucket Seat: GWM P300 LT


The love affair that South African motorists have with bakkies needs to be studied. I say this because a good 50% of the bakkie drivers don’t use the bakkie for it’s intended purpose, they buy it as an everyday car which is why you’re seeing more and more luxury elements filtering into what used to be a workhorse type of vehicle. Majority of the bakkie drivers don’t use bin, barely go off-roading and a lot just buy a tonne of fancy accessories to make their bakkie stand out more from the next. The most action these bakkies face is climbing pavements. Now I know I’ve been slandering the bakkie drive a lot in this introduction but for someone who drives multiple types of cars, I just feel that bakkies are not practical family cars. However, every time I get a bakkie rolling into my driveway, I do get excited and in this review I’ll tell you why. Not too long ago I spent some times with the GWM P300 double cab, a bakkie that’s shook the local market sending a shock wave to the likes of Toyota, Ford and Isuzu whom have been dominating the market for some time, the Chinese have already made their mark in the SUV segment so now they’re setting their eyes on the much loved bakkie with this P300.


DESIGN

The P300 is no stranger to SA with it being the talk of the market since it was launched 4 years ago. It’s managed to gain traction due to its offerings and attractive price but the looks department hasn’t changed drastically since. With minor updates to the car over the years, it still remains an attractive offering, and with the latest LT model you can see the cosmetic work done to it is anything but subtle. The flared wheel arches make it quite prominent, the bolder grille and GWM badge sits more proud on the front. A more neater front bumper which follows the lines of the grille keep the front end symmetrical all while looking rugged and capable for action. The size of the van really does surprise you when you get up close to it. The use of more bolder colours and higher quality materials makes this van look a lot more premium, the extra additions like roof rails and the very handy step ladder that deploys from the tail gate for easy access into the bin. On the inside, one would be mistaken for being in a luxury SUV, the layout is simple but classy, something very different from what we are used to in a "workhorse". 


PERFORMANCE

The P300 LT comes in one engine derivative, being the 2.4L Turbo Diesel, this being the same engine that featured in the Tank 300 that I had previously. The two models vary in terms of drive, with the entry level being a 4 x 2 and the range topping being 4 x 4, both have a 9-speed automatic gearbox that works superbly with the drive train, without the normal issues that plagued the previous models. The engine derives 135kW and 480Nm of torque, which is powerful numbers. GWM claim the 4 x 4 model has a fuel economy of 8.0L per 100km, which wasn't that hard to achieve, the diesel motor makes a world of difference and with out any load and calm driving around town is what helped me get to around that figure. Once you start loading the bin and cabin, it might be a different story. The P300 LT comes with 18" alloys which are wrapped around with 265 all terrain tyres, the front suspension is a double wishbone type with the rear being leaf spring rigid axle. The off-road controls very easy to engage with most of them being a push of a button and with the new off-road display on the infotainment screen it makes it all that more simpler to conquer tougher terrains. 


COMFORT

As mentioned earlier, the cabin of the P300 LT is akin to a luxury SUV, with high quality and robust materials used to adorn it. The new layout is very modern, feature two screens, a 9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch multi-touch infotainment screen. The user interface is simple to use and very touch sensitive, so making it easy for the driver to access items while driving. The car has Bluetooth connectivity, wireless mobile app connectivity which includes Android Auto and Carplay. It has a 6-speaker sound system which is quite good and also has speed-sensing speaker volume adjustment which automatically increases the volume ever so slightly when going at higher speeds to compensate for the road noise. The P300 LT comes with climate control and front seat heating, these are all adjusted from physical buttons and not via the touchscreen. The front console has a USB A and USB C port as well as a wireless charging tray. there is a fair amount of storage compartments up front for cup holders with a slide tray under the arm rest for you to store keys and remotes. The back, as per most double cabs does not have the most room but it is sufficient for two adults to sit comfortably with USB charging ports and ventilation for the passengers. the biggest surprise would be the sunroof, its the first time I've ever seen a bakkie that comes with a sunroof!  The bin is sizable but I'm a bit disappointed that it didn't come with an auto roller shutter or any power outlets like most of the other bakkies on the market. 


VERDICT

Ultimately the P300 LT is still here to do the job the original P Series has been doing and that is disrupt the market. Its offerings are unique and very attractive but what will draw more people to it is the price. When GWM first introduced this model to the market, it had its skepticism on how long it would fair in terms of reliability and performance and to its credit, most of which have been sold are still going strong. So you be the judge of that, the Chinese are really coming in hard and fast, but with brands like GWM who have firmed themselves in the country, there isn't that worry about reputation or after sales services because of their wide dealer network. I think the jury on the Chinese cars could be making a decision very soon given the number of new brands and models coming into the country and the market being very open to try them out. This particular model for me is a winner and while many still might prefer their trusted Hilux or Ranger, that  saving of close to 300K is very enticing.  

SPECIFICATION

Engine
2.4L Turbo Diesel
Gear Box
9-Speed Automatic
Torque
480Nm 
Power
135kW
Fuel Economy
 8.0L/100km
Price
R649,900

 


 



 

 


 



 

 


 




 


Thursday, June 12, 2025

Bucket Seat: GWM Tank 300

With the Chinese continuing their surge into the market, we seeing loads of various derivatives from the brands whom have already established themselves in the country. One of the popular ones being GWM, who’ve had a decade long presence locally and over the past 5 years seen a drastic increase in sales due to their popular models in the HAVAL stable. Last year they launched another sub brand called “Tank” which showcases their robust offerings more inclined to the adventurers and off-road enthusiasts. The first model which was brought in is the Tank 300. This boxy looking SUV fits all the characteristics of a proper off-roader, but many were still skeptical on its capabilities. Seeing that it was first only offered in petrol engines, this was another draw back for it, with already high consumption figures from the normal SUV’s, this would prove to be even higher given the weight and size of the car. Nevertheless the Tank 300 did sell in decent numbers but the call for a more fuel efficient drivetrain was required. Earlier this year GWM brought in the hybrid petrol and not too long ago launched the 2.4 Turbo Diesel engine. I got to spend a week with the latter and see if this was the ideal engine for this car.


DESIGN

The design of the Tank 300 is very much like its namesake, a tank. It’s big, bulky and boxy, to some its appearance is not very attractive, to others it looks the part. Mimicking some of the other off-road legends in design, it has similar characteristics to the Mercedes-Benz Geländewagen and the Jeep Wrangler, but with its own flair. Personally, the looks of the car didn’t do much for me and in certain angles it did not flatter but this car isn’t designed to win beauty contests as it mean to go exploring in the roads less travelled and for that, the design is spot on. Raised suspension giving it a ground clearance of 224mm, robust black bumpers and side skirts, all terrain tyres and flared wheel arches make the Tank ready to conquer just about any obstacle. The box silhouette may not be to everyone’s liking but it’s needed for the rigidity when maneuvering through tricky terrain. The spare wheel is mounted on the rear door and there is roof rails providing if extra storage is required. The interior of the tank is a complete contrast to the exterior with a modern fascia that adorns the dash and split LCD screens for instrumentation and infotainment.


PERFORMANCE

As mentioned earlier, the Tank was launched with a petrol engine, the Chinese vehicles are well known for their high fuel efficiency, this is due to a number of reasons but in particular the gearbox choices. While there is a hybrid version of the Tank on offer, I still think this diesel engine is where value for money will lie for the consumer. The 4 cylinder turbo charged engine delivers maximum torque peaking at 480Nm with a total power out put of 135kW. Its paired to a 9-speed automatic gearbox which performs well on the daily commute, sometimes it is found holding gears for longer than required but a tap on the break or accelerator sorts that issue out quickly. The Tank 300 comes with Haval’s off-road system which I got to experience first in the H7 and just like that, the system offers automatic selection of terrain and conditions via the touch screen, swapping from 2H, to 4L is as easy as turning the dial on the center console and then via the touch screen display you can really get into the details when configuring how you want the car set up, this even comes with the warning when accessing the menu as it says it’s for experienced users only.


COMFORT

As rugged as the Tank may look on the outside, it’s actually quite a comfy cabin on the inside. As mentioned, it’s a carbon copy of the H7 with dual LCD screens, one for your instrument cluster and the other for your infotainment. All climate control functions are hard buttons. The gear selector is quite a unique one and is used across the GWM range. There is USB C ports and a wireless charging tray, wireless mobile application connectivity and this model came with a sunroof. There were seat heating options for the driver and front passenger and both seats were electronically adjustable. The finishes and quality of materials used were really good, while most of it was faux leather, it really was hard to differentiate the real from the fake. The rear passengers enjoy a decent about of space, especially with the high cabin ceiling gives the feeling of more space. The Tank came with 4 cameras and front and rear PDCs which come very handy when parking this behemoth, it also allows you to toggle it in a 360 view via the touch screen, a feature which comes standard.


VERDICT

Ultimately, the Tank 300 is everything that an off-road enthusiast would want in a car, well maybe I not so much the fancy interior but the rugged exterior and well capable chassis, yes. The price point makes this all the more attractive to even novices who are merely entertaining the fact that they may pursue a side hobby in off-roading will drool at the fact that they could get something like this for almost half the price of what you'd pay for the American or European offerings. The common problem of high fuel economy which deterred many from Chinese brands has now been solved with the introduction of this diesel engine and while it still may be high, for a car that weighs 3-tonnes it was pretty good. The luxuries on the inside are an added bonus if you ask me, cars that are built for this are not meant to be that nice on the inside but GWM thought otherwise and decided to spoiled us. The mount of tech that adorns the car is extraordinary as well, most of which would cost an arm and a leg if added on other brands. The Tank 300 might not be every ones cup of tea but it certainly is a value for money offering, one which is difficult to find in our current climate of cars. 


SPECIFICATION

Engine
2.4L Turbo
Gear Box
9-Speed tiptronic
Torque
480Nm 
Power
135kW
Fuel Economy
 7.7L/100km
Price
R699,900

 


 


 


 


 



 

 





 

 


Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Bucket Tech: HUAWEI Innovative Product Launch 2025

The all-new HUAWEI WATCH 5 introduces trailblazing innovations that herald an era of intelligent interaction. A key highlight is the significantly enhanced HUAWEI TruSense™ System, which now integrates the new Multi-sensing X-TAP Technology, powered by a Distributed Sensor Module. This advanced system allows users to perform health monitoring with fingertip measurements effortlessly, ensuring accurate, faster, and comprehensive health insights. Additionally, gesture control has been upgraded to support "Double Slide" and "Double Tap", providing users with more intuitive interaction. The HUAWEI WATCH 5 also debuts in exclusive Purple and Sand Gold colours, introducing a palette that speaks to quiet luxury and bold individuality.


With HUAWEI WATCH 5, the future of wearable tech gets personal — sharper insights, smarter design, and health features that work harder. HUAWEI WATCH 5 will be available in South Africa from the 2nd of June through Huawei's online platforms only, and in selected retailers from the beginning of July, at a starting recommended retail price of R9 999.00

New flagship products unveiled in a fusion of technology and aesthetics

Alongside the HUAWEI WATCH 5, Huawei introduced several other flagship products, including the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series, HUAWEI FreeBuds 6, and the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch.

The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series stays true to its signature square watch face and ‘Fashion Active' philosophy, promoting an energetic, health-conscious lifestyle. Featuring an ultra-slim and lightweight design for comfort, the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro measures just 9.3 mm in thickness. The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Pro supports pro-level outdoor sports, including trail running, dive-depth of up to 40 meters, and golf course mode, enhanced by the HUAWEI TruSense System for comprehensive and smarter health management.


The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 4 Series will be available in South Africa on Huawei's online platform from the 2nd of June 2025, retailing at R2 999.00. Or from selected authorised Huawei retailers starting from R99.00 per month, over 36 months. You will be able to purchase the HUAWEI Fit 4 Pro from R4 999.00 on Huawei's online platform or at a starting price of R149.00 per month over 36 months at selected authorised Huawei retailers.

The HUAWEI FreeBuds 6 are Huawei’s first open-fit earbuds to feature dual-magnetic driver units. Equipped with Stable & Clear Calls Noise Cancellation technology and a refined, sleek droplet design, these earbuds deliver a seamless and immersive audio experience.


Arrival date and pricing of the HUAWEI FreeBuds 6 to be confirmed.

The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch 2025 incorporates an inventive Tandem OLED PaperMatte Display, significantly boosting screen brightness while enhancing its anti-glare and anti-reflection capabilities. Paired with the Huawei Glide Keyboard and an upgraded HUAWEI Notes application, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch 2025 is built to transform how you work, create and stay organised.  Creativity also gets a boost with the new 3D Oil Painting Brush, which replicates the rich layering of oils, watercolours, and acrylics, and an Animation feature that turns layers into sequential frames for smooth, natural motion.



The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2-inch 2025 will be available in South Africa towards the end of July, pricing to be confirmed.

Active Rings inspire a new way to enjoy every moment of active living

Tapping into the global shift toward mindful movement and fitness, Huawei has evolved its “Light Up Your Rings” campaign into “Active Rings”, centred around the philosophy of “Enjoy Your Moment”. With more than 100 sport modes integrated across its wearable range, Huawei empowers users of all ages and fitness levels to stay active and embrace health in ways that suit their individual lifestyles.

According to IDC's latest report, Huawei ranked first globally in year-over-year growth for wearable device shipments in 2024 and has maintained the top position in the Chinese market share for six consecutive years.

With a distinctive mix of health tech and fashion-forward design, Huawei Wearables are shaping global health trends and have become a statement of personal style worldwide. 



Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Bucket Seat: OMODA unveils refreshed C5 X Series


The OMODA C5, one of South Africa’s favourite premium compact crossovers, is better than ever, thanks to a bold new update called the C5 X Series. This update brings improvements across the board, from a more refined driving experience to greater practicality. The latest iteration builds on the C5’s success while offering even more to customers who demand style and substance at an affordable price. 

At first glance, the striking front fascia has been redesigned, giving the C5 a sportier and more upmarket look. The diamond matrix grille, a striking part of the C5’s styling, is more polished and sophisticated. 

The lower elements of the bumper have also been revised for a cleaner and more modern look. Similarly, the headlights have been restyled, while the daytime running lamps have been sculpted for a more dynamic look. Overall, the C5 has been brought more in line with the C9, which was launched in South Africa in November 2024. 

But OMODA has gone further, enhancing the package with sportier, black-painted alloy wheels for a more dynamic presence. 

Alongside the refreshed design elements, a new dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is now standard for the C5 X Series. The smooth-shifting six-speed gearbox is paired with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, producing 115 kW and 230 N.m of torque for a more responsive and efficient driving experience. 


These enhancements have improved performance, reducing the 0-100 km/h time by 0.9 seconds to a swift nine seconds. Efficiency has also been improved, with fuel consumption now rated at 6.9L/100 km—an improvement over the outgoing Elegance and Lux trim’s 7.4L/100 km. 

The mechanical revisions extend beyond acceleration and efficiency. The previous torsion beam rear suspension has been replaced with a multilink setup, delivering improved ride comfort and sharper handling. This elevates the driving experience, offering greater luxury and dynamic control. 

OMODA engineers have further improved the dynamics of the C5 X Series, adjusting the brake pedal for more responsive and engaging feedback. Additionally, improved cornering stability ensures that the updated crossover delivers a more confident and enjoyable ride in all conditions. 

The drive mode selector now includes an additional mode, giving drivers more options. There are now three modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. 


Inside, the C5 benefits from more luxurious soft-touch materials for the driver and front passenger door trim, while the 15-watt wireless charger has been replaced with a 50-watt charger with a ventilation system. However, the most impressive revision is the increased boot space, with the space behind the rear seats increasing from an already generous 378 to 442 litres. With the rear row folded flat, the C5 can swallow up to 1,149 litres of cargo - 74 more litres than the outgoing model. 

“With the latest updates to the C5 lineup, we’ve not only enhanced performance and efficiency but also introduced key refinements that elevate the driving experience,” commented Hans Greyling, General Manager for OMODA & JAECOO South Africa. 

“From the introduction of the smooth-shifting dual-clutch transmission to the adoption of multilink rear suspension, every improvement has been made with comfort and responsiveness in mind. What’s more, we’ve managed to offer these advancements at a more accessible price point, reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional value without compromise,” added Gahagan. 

OMODA continues to deliver exceptional value in the compact crossover segment with the introduction of the new C5 Lux X and Elegance X. Alongside a host of enhancements, both models now arrive with more accessible pricing. The Lux X is available at R425,900, while the Elegance X comes in at R465,900—both more affordable than before. 



The existing Street and Style derivatives will remain in the lineup, ensuring a wide range of options for customers seeking both value and performance. 

Despite the price drop, all C5 models receive OMODA’s five-year/150,000 km warranty, five-year/70,000 km service plan, and the industry-leading ten-year/one-million km engine warranty as part of the standard price. 

Thursday, April 3, 2025

Bucket Seat: Haval H7


Haval has become quite a common brand known in the local market, with them capatilizing on the ever growing SUV market with popular and affordable models like the Jolion, H6 and the H6 GT. Sitting on the GWM umbrella which has been on the scenes for over 10 years, consumers have warmed to the idea that everything made in China can't be all that bad and they were not wrong. The cars are great quality, plenty performance, tech packed and overall bang for your buck. If I had to nitpick, the high fuel consumption would be the one downside to them but with the change from CVT to DCT in most of the Chinese imports, this seems to be solving that problem. The Haval H7 has recently entered the South African market, offering a distinctive blend of rugged design, modern technology, and robust performance. This mid-size SUV is positioned between the H6 and H9 models, aiming to cater to families and adventure enthusiasts alike.


DESIGN

The H7's design is characterized by a boxy, retro-inspired profile that exudes a rugged charm. It features a prominent three-tier grille flanked by circular LED headlights, contributing to its bold front fascia. Standard 19-inch alloy wheels housed within flared wheel arches and functional roof rails enhance its adventurous appeal. Despite its robust appearance, the H7 maintains a contemporary aesthetic that aligns with current SUV trends. ​The design says it's ready for the roads less traveled, that along with the flared wheel arches and rugged tyres, it gives off that explorer look. While the front is pretty attractive, I feel they tried to force the design of the rear a bit too much by trying to incorporate the circular light theme there as well. Just seems a bit unpolished to me. 


PERFORMANCE

Under the hood, the H7 is equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 170 kW and 380 Nm of torque. This powerplant is paired with a 9-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. The H7 is available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, catering to different driving preferences and conditions. ​On the road, the H7 offers a balanced ride quality, effectively absorbing most road imperfections. The suspension setup, while occasionally firm, contributes to stable handling and a comfortable driving experience. The cabin remains quiet, enhancing the overall sense of refinement during travel. ​While official fuel consumption figures are yet to be confirmed, the H7's engine is engineered for a balance between performance and efficiency. While I only spent a week with it, I hardly drove around as I was away for most of the time but in my short time with it I couldn't get the average below 13.9L per 100km, which won't do any good for the high fuel usage taboo placed on the brand already but one must understand this car is much bigger and heavier, akin to a Jeep so with this in mind, that average is pretty on brand for a car like that.


COMFORT

Inside, the H7 offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin designed with comfort and convenience in mind. High-quality materials are used throughout, and the layout is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The infotainment system is A key focal point of the interior as its a massive 14.6-inch screen that is user-friendly and supports smartphone integration wirelessly. Ample legroom and headroom ensure comfort for all occupants, making it suitable for long journeys. ​The H7 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and advanced driver-assistance systems. These technologies enhance driver confidence and passenger safety, aligning the H7 with competitors in its segment. ​The comfort access of having proximity sensor with automatic tailgate is a really winner in this car. Works much better than some of the German variants. 


VERDICT

The Haval H7 stands out in the mid-size SUV segment with its distinctive design, robust performance, and well-appointed interior. Its combination of rugged aesthetics and modern features makes it a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and stylish vehicle. As Haval continues to establish its presence in South Africa, the H7 exemplifies the brand's commitment to delivering quality and value to consumers. With the adventure mindset that most South Africans have, I believe this model will do well locally, its the first real "off road" offering from a Chinese brand locally and apart from it looking the part, it really feels it too. I tested it in some tricky situations from traversing up steep gradients on loose gravel to flooded roads and it excelled in every aspect. The off road controls are easy to use and engage via the touch screen including the Electronic Differential Lock and the 360 degree camera allows you to see everything around you, to avoid any obstacles or the area around you. A much needed model to their already impressive line-up.


SPECIFICATIONS

Engine
2.0Turbo Petrol
Gear Box        
9-Speed DCT
Torque
380Nm
Power
170kW 
Avg Fuel Economy    
no official rating
Price
R601,950*  base model

 



 



 





 

 


Thursday, March 27, 2025

Bucket Seat: GAC Emkoo


GAC is yet another Chinese brand that has entered our market, first with their hatchback the Emzoom and now with the crossover the Emkoo which I spent a few days with not too long ago. While all the Chinese brands have really great  and interesting designs,  GAC really know how to make a statement with theirs. It's really far our and extremely futuristic which I love. It's bold and cool, some might call it extra but it plays the part. While all Chinese cars come at a great retail price which are making peoples head sway away from the Europeans, many are still skeptical about the longevity of them. My gripe with the other brands is the gear boxes and the fuel consumption so I was looking forward to seeing how this new comer fairs against its Chinese competition. 


DESIGN

The Emkoo’s exterior design is arguably one of the most futuristic in its class, making it ideal for those who want a vehicle that stands out on the road. The GAC Emkoo is a head-turner, featuring a cyberpunk-inspired design that sets it apart from more conventional compact SUVs. Some key exterior highlights include an aggressive Front Fascia which has distinctive V-shaped front grille with integrated LED daytime running lights (DRLs) gives it a high-tech appearance. The grille has an intricate, angular design that blends into the front bumper. The slim, angular sharp, split-type LED headlights add to the vehicle’s futuristic aesthetic. A sloping roofline, sculpted body lines, and blacked-out pillars create a sporty, coupe-SUV look. The car boasts air ducts and sharp creases that improve aerodynamics while enhancing its aggressive stance. A connected LED taillight design and angular rear bumper complete the bold look.


PERFORMANCE

The GAC Emkoo comes powered with a 1.5L Turbocharged Engine which delivers 130kW and 370Nmof torque with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The 1.5L turbo engine offers a good balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for city and highway driving. The DCT gearbox shifts quickly but may feel a bit jerky at low speeds, which is typical for dual-clutch transmissions. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing road imperfections well while maintaining decent handling characteristics. While the Emkoo is not a performance-oriented SUV, it delivers a refined and comfortable drive with enough power for daily use. 1.5L Turbo with a claimed consumption of 6.4L per 100km in mixed driving conditions.


COMFORT

The cabin of the GAC Emkoo is equally futuristic, blending a minimalist layout with high-tech features, a large 10.1-inch or 14.6-inch touchscreen (depending on the variant) dominates the dashboard, offering a clean and modern look.  The driver gets a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster with customizable displays. Premium Materials: Soft-touch materials, leather upholstery (on higher trims), and metallic accents enhance cabin quality. The minimalist design eliminates excessive buttons, focusing on touchscreen controls and a sleek gear selector. Comfortable Seating: The Emkoo offers well-cushioned seats with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats are slightly reclined for added comfort. Customizable LED ambient lighting adds a premium touch, enhancing the driving experience at night. While the interior design is sleek and modern, some may find the heavy reliance on touch controls less intuitive than traditional buttons. Being Chinese, the Emkoo is loaded with tech, some of the key features being, the 10.1-inch or 14.6-inch touchscreen runs GAC’s latest UI, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Intelligent voice commands allow you to adjust climate settings, navigation, and multimedia functions, Wireless Charging, Premium Audio System, Advanced Connectivity: Includes Wi-Fi hotspot functionality and over-the-air (OTA) software updates. The cabin is much more spacious than it looks in pictures with ample headroom for the front and rear, the luggage space is a decent size too, with more than enough room to pack bags for a family holiday. 


VERDICT

The GAC Emkoo is a bold, high-tech, and efficient compact SUV that stands out in a crowded segment. With its eye-catching design, premium interior, and modern safety features, it offers strong value for money. With an eye catching affordable price like other Chinese variants, its also packed with safety features such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, Traffic Sign Recognition. It also has Multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain), Rigid chassis construction, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system that is really cool and high-definition. The Emkoo’s safety package is competitive, positioning it well among rivals like the Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Haval H6. While the name GAC isn't as prominent on the roads as Haval, Chery and BYD.


SPECIFICATIONS

Engine
1.5 Turbo Petrol
Gear Box        
7-Speed DCT Auto
Torque
370Nm
Power
130kW 
Avg Fuel Economy    
6.4L per 100km
Price
R599,900*  base model