2023 GAC Emkoo Is A Radically-Styled Crossover That Starts At P1.413M

Say hello to the 2023 GAC Emkoo, which made its debut today at the 2023 Manila International Auto Show. Hot off the heels of the local launch of the GS8 flagship SUV and Empow sports sedan, the Emkoo is another GAC model that aims to shake up the segment it’s competing in with its radical styling that’s matched with cutting-edge features.

And oh boy should we definitely talk about how it looks. Whereas most compact crossover SUVs tend to follow a similar, practicality-driven template, the Emkoo throws that away in favor of a design that looks very radical and futuristic. The front end is characterized by a V-shaped frameless grille that’s flanked by extremely slim LED headlights with fang-like LED daytime running lights. The radical styling continues on the side as it comes with flushed door handles that pop out when the vehicle is unlocked. Likewise, the rear end is just as striking with its rakish roof, slim vertical LED taillights, and sculpted rear bumper.

Just like the exterior, the interior isn’t short in character either. There are plenty of interesting shapes and design details, ranging from the funky paddle-style door handles, all the way to the chunky satin silver elements going across the doors and dash. Soft-touch materials are the order of the day here, along with a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and a large main infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay.

Riding on the GAC Global Platform Modular Architecture, it shares many of its underpinnings with the Empow and the GS4, which means we’re confident that this will be one of the nicest crossovers to drive in its segment. Likewise, the Emkoo also uses a similar powertrain–a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 177 hp and 270 Nm of torque. This drives the front wheels via a 7-speed wet dual-clutch automatic.

The 2023 GAC Emkoo also comes with the full suite of ADiGO advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), which includes the usual automatic emergency braking, full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane centering, just to name a few.

Interested? The radically-designed 2023 GAC Emkoo is priced at P1,413,000 for the GE and P1,553,000 for the top-of-the-range GL–putting it right against the equally-new Ford Territory in terms of price.