Combining luxury and value: Changan Uni-K vs. GAC GS8

Chinese carmakers are seemingly capable of churning out vehicles that are not only packed with value, but also ones that carry the amenities and class expected by well-heeled buyers. Changan and GAC are examples of these carmakers whose lineup is composed of the practical and upscale.

Among the jewels in the crown of Changan Motor Philippines Inc. (CMPI) is the 2023 Changan Uni-K — which complements the structure of the crown made by the Alsvin, CS35 Plus, CS55 Plus, and CS75 Plus. For GAC Motor Philippines, its menu is composed of the bread-and-butter GS3, GS4, Empow, and GN6 — topped off by the flagship 2023 GAC GS8.

So, if you’re in the market for a luxurious SUV, know the differences between the 2023 Changan Uni-K and 2023 GAC GS8.

Changan Uni-K, GAC GS8 Exterior

The 2023 Changan Uni-K is elegance personified with a distinctive design. It showcases yet another chic iteration of Changan's iconic borderless grille uses a Hexagonal Grille Pattern Design, boosted with sporty and eye-catching refinements all around like the Trident Daytime Running Lights (DRL), Starship headlights, Airship-shape rear spoiler, and enormous 21-inch alloy wheels.

Hidden door handles add to the streamlined look of the 2023 Changan Uni-K crossover, while giving the driver and passengers a more fashionable and exclusive way of entering the vehicles, as the handles automatically pop out when occupants have the key in their hand.

The strong silhouette lends the new GS8 a stately and executive demeanor. For an aggressive and bold stance, the model's signature four-bulb metric automatic LED headlights pair perfectly with a powerful V-shaped chrome grille arranged in a symmetrical layout.

The 2023 GAC GS8 is finished off with 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels, double chrome exhaust pipes, and LED daytime running lights.

Changan Uni-K, GAC GS8 Prices

Available for indent orders at Changan dealers nationwide, the 2023 Changan Uni-K is priced at P2.719-million.

The 2023 GAC GS8 is offered at a special introductory price of P2.298-million until March 31, 2023 only. The introductory price provides a special discount of P100,000.

Changan Uni-K, GAC GS8 Interior

In the Uni-K, the driver is surrounded by user-friendly technology and luxuries in the cockpit, which has been designed to make driving as comfortable and inviting as possible.

The 2023 Changan Uni-K’s new generation technology called smart cockpit consists of a smart quadruple-screen interactive layout of 3+1. The LCD digital instrument cluster comprises three parts: the left section displays tire pressure and door conditions; the middle section shows vehicle speed, augmented reality real-view navigation, multimedia interface and vehicle status; and the right section comprises a digital rear-view mirror, tachometer, and fuel gauge.

Inside the 2023 GAC GS8, its seats, upholstered in finely crafted leather with diamond stitching, are equipped with power adjustable controls and memory settings for the driver and front passenger. The leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters, electrochromic rear view mirror, three-zone automatic air conditioning and one-touch power windows offer added convenience, while multi- color intelligent ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof give a touch of luxury.

Changan Uni-K, GAC GS8 Convenience Features

The LCD digital instrument cluster of the 2023 Changan Uni-K ensures that it appropriately satisfies the variety of consumer expectations by displaying a variety of information. Furthermore, the new intelligent infotainment screen's ultra-wide angle, high-resolution, and adjustable backlight controls significantly reduce eye fatigue when operating the vehicle.

When a foot is detected under the rear bumper, the 2023 Changan Uni-K's Electric Tailgate with Induction Sensor instantly opens the cargo door, making it simple to load baggage and other travel requirements. The Changan Uni-K boasts a premium Sony sound system — 12 speakers with subwoofer — for the occupants’ listening pleasure.

The updated cabin of the 2023 GAC GS8 boasts a plethora of intelligent and interactive amenities. Four USB type-A ports, a wireless mobile phone charging pad, a 14.6-inch HD touch screen with phone mirroring functionality, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a Bluetooth handsfree phone system are among them.

Changan Uni-K, GAC GS8 Performance

When it comes to performance, the 2023 Changan Uni-K generates a breathtaking 232ps of maximum power and 390Nm of torque, thanks to its 2.0-liter Changan Blue Core TGDi engine paired with an eight-speed shift-by-wire automatic transmission system with options for two-wheel drive (2WD), automatic, and four-wheel drive (4WD) lock with an All-Wheel Drive Switch Button that adjust the vehicle’s response to effectively navigate various road conditions.

The GAC GS8 SUV is propelled by a turbocharged two-liter engine that generates 248 horsepower and an increased torque of 400 Nm. It is mated to an eight-speed automated transmission and all-wheel drive.

Changan Uni-K, GAC GS8 Safety

Ultimate safety is provided by the 2023 Changan Uni-K.

The SUV's Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) can achieve Level 2 autonomous driving with an abundance of advanced active safety features. Among these are Blind Spot Detection Warning (BSDW) that triggers visual and audio alerts for rear side warning, door opening and lateral warnings; Lane Keeping Assist (LKA); Automated Emergency Braking (AEB); Integrated Adaptive Cruise Control (IACC) with Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), Electronic Stability Control (ESC); Lane Departure Warning (LDW); Front Collision Warning (FCW); and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

As for the GS8, the vehicle is equipped with GAC’s latest cutting-edge technology, including a wide array of driving assistance capabilities as standard. Among these are Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Front and Rear Parking Sensors with HD Surround Vision Parking System, and Traffic Jam Assist.

Photos from Changan, GAC