GAC Emkoo Hybrid

Inside, the GAC Emkoo Hybrid comes with a blacked-out cabin layout, which effectively complements its sporty exterior design. Its leatherette-trimmed seats might not be the plushest in its segment, but these still offer good support and ergonomics for everyone on board. On the plus side, the first and second rows both offer adequate headroom and leg room, effectively accommodating five passengers.

Upfront, you are greeted by a 10.1-inch multifunction touchscreen display that is equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth Handsfree, and is linked to a 6-speaker sound system. Meanwhile, drivers have access to a 7-inch LCD instrument cluster, a multifunction steering wheel, and Crystal-textured shift paddles. This SUV also comes with two USB ports (Type-A + Type-C) and a wireless charging module with intelligent sensing (optional).

Moreover, GAC made sure that the Emkoo Hybrid’s cabin is not only sporty, but also trendy enough for modern passenger standards. It comes with an ambient lighting system and a glass roof with a built-in sunshade. All in all, this SUV’s cabin offers an impressive mix of practicality, convenience, and entertainment for its price point.

In terms of dimensions, the GAC Emkoo Hybrid measures 4,680 mm in length, 1,901 mm in width, and 1,670 mm in height. This hybrid SUV also has a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. 

Design-wise, the GAC Emkoo Hybrid resembles a fighter robot. Its mecha-inspired facade is defined by an imposing V-shaped grid pattern, which gives it a distinctive look on the road. It sports hypermodern-looking T-shaped LED headlights with LED DRLs, which display a confident flare at night. And, to complete the details on its front end, it gets a GAC emblem with a blue outline–setting it apart from its ICE-powered counterpart. 

Its sleek hypermodern design carries over to the side. It comes with electric hidden door handles and power mirrors with an auto-folding function. A dynamic-looking set of 19-inch alloy wheels blend well with its elegant silhouette.

Aside from these, GAC did a great job making the Emkoo Hybrid’s rear design look really sporty. It flaunts a pair of X-shaped taillights that house a total of 128 LED beads. Similar to its front end, it also gets a Mecha-style spoiler at the back. An aggressive-looking diffuser adds more sportiness to its overall design. And, for easier loading and unloading of cargo, this SUV comes with an electric tailgate.

In terms of suspension, the GAC Emkoo Hybrid comes with MacPherson Struts at the front and a Multi-Link at the rear. Its setup is on the stiffer side of things. Hence, large (and smaller) bumps are a bit noticeable when you are cruising at higher speeds. On the plus side, it handles turns or corners quite well. And, when driven sensibly, it can still deliver a pleasant riding experience for all passengers.

The GAC Emkoo Hybrid runs on a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2-L Atkinson Cycle engine, which delivers 138 hp and 180 Nm of torque, with an electric motor, which generates 134 kW (180 hp) and 300 Nm of torque. The combined system output is rated at 238 hp. This SUV comes mated to a dedicated hybrid transmission system and utilizes a front-wheel drivetrain.

Off the line, this SUV is exceptionally quick. Yet, it remains very efficient even when you are cruising at high speeds. Additionally, its DHT is smooth, enhancing the driver’s overall performance on the road. That said, it arguably has the upper hand over its ICE-powered counterpart when it comes to cost-efficiency and seamless power delivery.

Safety is not an issue for the GAC Emkoo Hybrid as it is equipped with a long list of driving assistance systems. This includes adaptive cruise control with integrated cruise assist, autonomous emergency braking, automatic emergency braking with vulnerable road users protection, forward collision warning, traffic sign recognition system, traffic jam assist, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, blind spot detection with lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert with rear collision warning, rear parking sensors, and a surround view camera system.

In terms of braking, this SUV comes with front ventilated discs and rear discs. Its braking setup is also supported by an electronic stability program, electronic parking brake with autohold, hill-start hold control, and hill-descent control.

The GAC Emkoo Hybrid hits a sweet spot for buyers seeking a vehicle that is smooth and fun to drive, yet practical and cost-effective for daily use. It definitely deserves more attention from local consumers.