GAC Motor to Launch New SUVs in Pakistan

The SUV parade is powering on and a new Chinese automaker, Guangzhou Automobile Group, is about to enter Pakistan, as per our source. The company is reportedly ready to launch two new crossover SUVs in Pakistan — the GS3 SUV and the GS8 SUV.

GAC Motor is one of the biggest automobile conglomerates in Asia, with several joint ventures with other automakers such as Toyota, Honda, Isuzu, Fiat, Mitsubishi, BYD, and Hino. These joint ventures have allowed it to produce and sell foreign-branded products even in China.

Its vehicle lineup includes electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (HFCVs) that are currently under development.

The GS3 is a subcompact crossover SUV that is intended to rival the Kia Stonic and the MG ZS. It is offered in the international market with a choice of a 1.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine, and a 1.4-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine. Both engines power only the front wheels via either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The GS8 is a full-size SUV whose direct competitor in terms of dimensions and stature is the Toyota Land Cruiser in the local market. However, it is surprising that despite being a full-size SUV, the GS8 is offered with a single-engine option which is a rather small 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine that makes 250 hp and 400 Nm of torque and is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The source did not share any details about the prices and the launch dates of these vehicles, but given that they are modern and well-equipped, their price tags are likely to appeal to only a small niche of premium car buyers.