The 2022 GAC GS3 is a 112hp compact SUV with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine

After the successful official distribution agreement between Warisan Tan Chong Automotif (WTCA) and GAC Motor International Limited (GAC International), the Chinese GAC brand has finally penetrated the Malaysian market with the launch of the 2022 GAC GS3 compact SUV.

Sitting pretty in the very popular B-segment compact SUV segment, the GAC GS3 is said to offer some interesting competition thanks to its styling, spaciousness, and value-for-money. The GAC GS3 is already available in 25 different countries, and it is set to make things even more interesting here in Malaysia as a CBU model.

Speaking of which, there will be two different variants on offer - Standard grade and Premium Grade. The prices have been set at RM88,800 and RM96,800 respectively (OTR without insurance). The extra RM8k comes from the Premium's extra bits such as front fog lights, foldable side mirrors, 3.5-inch LCD instrument panel, keyless entry, and push-to-start ignition.

Its front end is said to be the GS3's strongest exterior feature thanks to its Flying Wing Dynamic 3.0 design language which can be seen via its front grille, projector headlamps, lower bumper cladding, and how it all ties together into a unique looking SUV. Loads of curves and curvatures can be seen to offer its 'floating roof' design with a hint of sportiness thrown into the mix.

The GAC GS3 is also said to have the widest cabin in its class - 1,500mm to be exact. Storage spaces are in abundance (25 total) together with a 356-litre boot space that can be expanded with its foldable 60:40 second-row seats. Other noteworthy specs include six airbags, Blind Spot Detection, Electronic Stability Control, Emergency Stop Signal, Rear View Camera, Seatbelt Warning for all passengers, ISOFIX child seat mounts, plus more.

As for firepower, both the Standard and Premium variants are fitted with the same 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol D-CVVT (Dual Continuous Variable Valve Timing) engine matted to a six-speed automatic gearbox which produces 112hp @ 6,000rpm and 150Nm of torque at 4,500rpm. The fuel consumption figure is rated at 6.9L/100km.

The 2022 GAC GS3 Standard grade is available in Lunar Grey, Ivory White,
Starlight Silver and Rosefinch Red. As for the Premium variant, that is available in Rosefinch Red with black roof, Ivory White with black roof, and Lunar Grey (with body-coloured roof). To know more, head over to the first-ever GAC showroom located at Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, Kuala Lumpur.