Fresh from signing a distributorship deal with Astara Philippines, GAC Motor announced that it would launch two new models next year.

The company said on December 2022 that it will launch the Empow compact sedan and an all-new version of its GS8 midsize sport-utility vehicle (SUV) on January 2023.

GAC Motor also said it would open new showrooms and service facilities to add to the brand’s seven dealers nationwide.

“Soon, we will announce six new dealer locations opening in key cities as part of our plan to grow the dealer network and reach more customers,” said Astara Philippines managing director Rauol Picello.

Expanding our dealer footprint is a key element to making GAC Motor a top contender amongst mainstream auto brands,” he added.

GAC Motor, also known as Guangzhou Automobile Group Motor Co. Ltd., was founded in 1955. Most of its current lineup is from its Trumpchi brand, which launched in December 2010.

The brand faces very stiff competition from bigger Chinese carmakers like Geely and MG.

Empow unveiled at MIAS

The GAC Empow was unveiled on April 2022 at the Manila International Auto Show.

It is expected to slot above the GAC GA4 subcompact sedan and take on the likes of the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Altis, and Mazda3.

Although the Chinese carmaker has yet to release any final specifications, the Empow packs a turbocharged 1.5-liter, twin-cam, 16-valve inline-4 gasoline engine with 179 PS and 270 Nm of torque.

All this performance is coursed through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

New GS8 now with hybrid power

Meanwhile, the next-generation GS8 seven-seater SUV debuted on July 2021.

Aside from revised exterior and interior styling, the GS8 has two powertrain options.

The first is a turbocharged 2.0-liter, twin-cam, 16-valve inline-4 gasoline engine producing 252 PS and 400 Nm of torque. This is mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

The second powerplant is a hybrid version of the 2.0-liter motor. This is paired with two electric motors for a combined output of 373 PS coursed through a continuously variable transmission.

The current GS8 also uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 gasoline engine pumping out 201 PS and 320 Nm of torque. This is mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

What do you think of GAC Motor’s upcoming models?