The latest contender in the popular compact SUV segment has arrived in Malaysia in the stylish silhouette of the GAC GS3 – a trend-setting B-segment SUV which offers dynamic styling, surprising spaciousness and amazing value.
The fully imported GS3 marks the introduction of GAC brand in Malaysia by WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA) – the official distributor of GAC vehicles in Malaysia following the signing of the distributorship agreement between WCTA and GAC Motor International Limited (GAC International) on 30th November 2021. WCTA is currently working closely with GAC International to kick-start the local assembly of the GS3 and the future introduction of upcoming GAC models.
“We at WTC Automotif are proud and honoured to be chosen to represent one of the most dynamic automotive brands in China. Malaysian car buyers are now able to experience GAC vehicles that are renowned for their design, comfort and build quality, starting with the all-new GAC GS3 B-segment SUV.
“The GS3 is a global model sold in 25 other countries and it arrives in Malaysia as a fully imported vehicle, with Malaysia being the first country to launch the RHD model. However, we are working closely with GAC International to kick start the local assembly programme for the GS3 and other models. WTCA has already set up a dedicated showroom for GAC in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and plans to expand beyond the Klang Valley region very soon,” said Tan Keng Meng, CEO of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd., the publicly-listed parent company of WTCA.
Mr. Zeng HeBin, President of GAC International said: “We anticipate that there will be a strong interest in this newly launched GAC GS3 SUV as it will appeal to Malaysian car buyers with its blend of dynamic styling, first-class safety and comfort, fuel efficiency as well as refined performance. We, at GAC International are also pleased and honoured to partner WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd and the Warisan Group in the distribution of the GAC Brand in Malaysia.”
The all-new GAC GS3 Compact SUV
Dynamic Styling
The GAC GS3 is instantly eye-catching with its adventurous frontal styling which bears GAC’s latest design language – Flying Dynamic Wing 3.0, showing off an intricately shaped front grille with subtle chrome strips that connect the projector headlamps and a lower bumper cladding linking the fog lamps, both visual elements emphasising the width and dynamism of the vehicle.
The curvature of the grille and front bumper is carried through to the sides which feature a strong shoulder line and deeply sculptured doors, while the cleverly concealed D-pillars accentuate the ‘floating’ roof design and sporty silhouette of the GS3. The sweeping roof line of the GS3 then tapers to a subtle rear spoiler with an integrated third brake lamp, complemented by slim LED tail-lamps that wrap around contours of the body for a distinguished presence on the road.
Like the exterior, the interior of the GS3 follows a similar theme with a ‘floating’ horizontal dashboard design that’s clean yet classy. A large 8-inch infotainment touch-screen sits centrally with switches and controls for the climate control laid out neatly below them for ease of use. The GS3 also comes with a sporty 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel that’s wrapped in leatherette and incorporates a multitude of steering controls to handle multimedia and voice calls without ever having to move your hands away from the wheel.
First-class Comfort and Safety
The GAC GS3 isn’t just about having its occupants travel in style, but also in utmost comfort and safety. Boasting one of the widest cabins in the compact SUV class at 1,500mm, the GS3 offers cabin spaciousness that’s virtually one-class above, with impressive legroom and shoulder room for rear passengers, even with three seated across.
Beyond that, the rear seats are also ergonomically shaped for optimal thigh support which B-segment vehicles typically lack. In addition to that, there are no less than 25 storage spaces to be found in the cabin of the GS3 along with a cargo space measuring 356 litres which can then be expanded by folding down the 60:40 rear seats.
To ensure occupants’ wellbeing, the GS3 is equipped with up to 6 airbags, Blind Spot Detection, Electronic Stability Control, Emergency Stop Signal, Rear View Camera, Seatbelt Warning for all passengers, ISOFIX child seat mounts and even a Climate Control System with PM2.5 filtering for odour-free motoring.
Efficient and Refined Performance
The GAC GS3 is powered by a 1.5-litre engine with Dual-CVVT and a GAC patented combustion control technology for enhanced combustion efficiency. The smooth four-cylinder engine produces 114ps and 150Nm and is mated to an Aisin 6-speed automatic with adaptive intelligent control to return a remarkable fuel efficiency of 6.9L per 100km, or 14.5km/l based on the combined NEDC cycle.
The GS3 is available in two different grades with four attractive body colours to choose from – Lunar Grey, Ivory White, Starlight Silver and Rosefinch Red. On-the-road prices without insurance start from RM88,800 for the Standard variant and RM96,800 for the Premium variant (for private registration with 50% Sales Tax Reduction). WTCA is ready to accept bookings for the GS3 from today onwards.
Test drives and static viewing are available at the new and dedicated GAC showroom which was unveiled in a simple ceremony marking the commencement of business. The first-ever GAC showroom is located at Lot 72, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 51200 Kuala Lumpur. For more information, please visit www.gacmotor.com.my and follow GAC Motor Malaysia on https://www.facebook.com/GAC-Motor-Malaysia-104304102124544.