2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style Review | Philkotse Philippines
Updated Aug 11, 2023
Editor’s: 4.4/5
When sporty styling and performance go hand in hand.
In this review…
- Introduction
- Exterior
- Interior
- Tech & Safety
- Driving & Performance
- Fuel Efficiency
- Verdict
- Color Options
- Price
- Specs
2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style Review: Introduction
GAC, under its new distributor Astara, wants to stand out in the overflowing sea of vehicle options in the market today. But instead of staying within design norms, the company took things literally and started offering a vehicle that stands out: the GS3 Emzoom.
The all-new GAC GS3 Emzoom | Philkotse Quick Look
I’ve had the chance to test the sporty-looking crossover amid rainy Manila, and it was a great overall experience and what I quite expected based on looks alone.
4.4/5
GAC GS3 Emzoom 2025 Review
- aesthetics4.5/5Overall exterior & Interior design, build quality, form vs function
- Safety & Technology4.0/5Number of safety & tech features, consistency during usage
- Performance4.5/5Power delivery, acceleration, transmission, suspension, handling
- Comfort & Practicality4.0/5Overall Ride Comfort, Space, Storage Areas
- Value for Money5.0/5Sticker price vs overall package
2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style Exterior Review: Neck-Breaker
The GAC GS3 Emzoom’s exterior design is anything but plain, especially in the R-Style variant I had the chance to test. Its captivating white color with orange accents exudes sportiness and charisma, making it stand out on the road.
GS3 Emzoom from the side
The angular and aggressive styling might be too bold for some, but for me, it’s love at first sight. The front winglets, split rear spoiler, and gigantic diffuser give it a purposeful appearance, and I was pleasantly surprised that these elements are not just for show.
And while most designers – like web, automotive, etc. – go for a rounded styling to stay easy on the eyes, GAC just went all-in with the polygonal and sharp approach. Quite bold, but works well for people like myself who are getting tired of similar-looking vehicles on the road.
The Emzoom from the rear
The 19-inch wheels are huge for a crossover, enhancing the vehicle’s sporty appeal. It mirrors the size of the Civic Type R’s wheels, as are the center-mounted dual exhaust pipes and the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 performance tires – quite an unexpected treat for a crossover. The LED headlights are exceptionally bright, ensuring excellent visibility in various driving conditions.
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2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style Interior Review: Surprisingly Elegant
Once inside, the GS3 Emzoom’s cabin exudes luxury and class, starkly contrasting its aggressive exterior. The power-adjustable seats and tilt/telescopic steering wheel allow for easy and comfortable adjustments, ensuring an enjoyable driving experience.
GS3 Emzoom rear cabin
The driver-focused dashboard layout adds a sporty demeanor, with every control angled toward the driver for easy access. The seats are comfortable, providing ample support and space for passengers. However, I must note that the beige seats might not be the best choice for families with children, as they are prone to stains.
On the practical side, the GS3 Emzoom offers plenty of cubbyholes for storage, but the door-mounted bottle holders are too narrow for regular-sized tumblers. Despite this, the cargo space is generous, although the loading height is a bit high.
The GS3 Emzoom’s trunk is generous
2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style Review: Tech & Safety
The GS3 Emzoom impresses with its technology and safety features, although some areas could be improved. The wireless charger and wireless Apple CarPlay combo is convenient, although I experienced occasional disconnections with the latter.
A closer look at the GS3 Emzoom’s touchscreen infotainment system
On the bright side, the wireless charger effectively charges the phone, not just maintaining the current charge. The adaptive cruise control, while a valuable feature, needs refinement, as I noticed some issues with its acceleration and braking smoothness.
On the safety front, the GS3 Emzoom is well-equipped, boasting six airbags, tire pressure monitoring, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, traffic sign recognition (which even recognizes speed limits), high beam assist, lane keep assist, and lane departure warning. However, I was surprised that a blind spot monitor was missing. The driving aids are generally unobtrusive and enhance the overall driving experience.
The GAC crossover’s front cabin
2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style Review: Driving & Performance
Under the hood, the GS3 Emzoom is powered by a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder gasoline engine, delivering 174 hp and an impressive 270 Nm of torque – numbers that can compete against the segment frontrunner, the Geely Coolray.
The GS3 Emzoom’s 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine
The engine provides ample power, and the torque ensures a satisfying pull at any speed. The 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission offers quick and precise shifts, adding to the engaging driving experience. The only downside here is that changing drive modes can only be done through the infotainment system, and the car defaults to Eco mode, which may not suit everyone’s preferences. There isn’t any manual mode, as well.
There’s a bit of a turbo lag in Eco and Comfort modes. However, once in Sport and Sport+ (exclusive to R-Style), the delay in acceleration becomes almost negligible, resulting in a truly fast and exhilarating ride. I particularly enjoyed the raunchy exhaust note, which can be opened or closed with a press of a button; I wish changing drive modes were just as easy.
A close-up of the GS3 Emzoom’s wheels
Despite its sporty nature, the GS3 Emzoom handles surprisingly well, with minimal body roll on corners. The suspension, though slightly stiff for a crossover, manages to absorb impacts without transferring them to the occupants.
As I drove the test unit during the recent typhoon, I got a first-hand experience of driving it amid heavy rains and strong gusts. The car feels stable and safe to drive even in heavy rain, providing on-road confidence. The absence of a rear windshield wiper is a minor quibble but does not detract from the overall driving experience.
2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style Review: Fuel Efficiency
In terms of fuel efficiency, the GS3 Emzoom returns an average of 10 km/l in combined city and highway driving. This figure was achieved mostly in Comfort mode, with occasional (read: several) switches to Sport mode on the highway.
The balance between performance and fuel economy is reasonable for a sporty crossover, especially when you’re having too much fun behind the steering wheel.
2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style Review: Verdict
The GAC GS3 Emzoom is a compelling choice for small families seeking a crossover that marries performance and practicality. Its sporty exterior, luxurious interior, and impressive driving dynamics make it an appealing option for enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on excitement. However, the non-linear acceleration might be too much for inexperienced drivers.
The 2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom
With pricing starting at Php 998,000 for the GS variant, Php 1,098,000 for the GB variant, and Php 1,198,000 for the top-tier R-Style variant, the GS3 Emzoom offers good value for money, considering its features and performance.
The GAC GS3 Emzoom is a well-rounded and exciting crossover that caters to drivers who crave performance without sacrificing practicality. Its unique blend of sportiness and versatility makes it a stand-out choice in the crossover segment.
2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom: Color Options
| 2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom color options |
| Salt Lake Blue, Graphene Grey, Moonlight Grey, Ivory White, Superstar Silver |
2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom: Price
| GAC GS3 Emzoom Variants | Price |
| GS3 Emzoom GS | Php 998,000 |
| GS3 Emzoom GB | Php 1,098,000 |
| GS3 Emzoom R-Style | Php 1,198,000 |
2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom R-Style: Specs
| Overall | |||||
| Make | GAC | ||||
| Name | GS3 Emzoom R-Style 1.5 DCT | ||||
| Body Type | Subcompact crossover | ||||
| Dimensions & Weight | |||||
| Length | 4,446mm | ||||
| Width | 1,850mm | ||||
| Height | 1,600mm | ||||
| Wheelbase | 2,650mm | ||||
| Seating Capacity | 5 | ||||
| Engine & Transmission | |||||
| Type | 1.5-liter DOHC Turbocharged | ||||
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | ||||
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch, wet-type automatic | ||||
| Horsepower | 174 | ||||
| Torque | 270 Nm | ||||
| Exterior | |||||
| LED headlights | |||||
| LED daytime running lights | |||||
| LED sequential turn signal lamps | |||||
| LED front fog lamps | |||||
| LED taillights | |||||
| Rear fog lamps | |||||
| Power-folding side mirrors | |||||
| Roof spoiler | |||||
| 19-inch alloy wheels | |||||
| Roof rails | |||||
| Power tailgate | |||||
| Interior | |||||
| Automatic climate control w/ rear vents | |||||
| Leather steering wheel | |||||
| 6-way power adjust driver’s seat | |||||
| Ambient lighting | |||||
| Leather seats | |||||
| 7-inch digital instrument cluster | |||||
| 10.25-inch touchscreen headunit with Android Auto, Apple Carplay (wireless) | |||||
| 6 speakers | |||||
| Wireless smartphone charging pad | |||||
| Six speakers | |||||
| USB Charging ports | |||||
| Safety & Tech | |||||
| Six airbags | |||||
| ISOFIX | |||||
| ABS with EBD | |||||
| Electronic Stability Program | |||||
| Hill start assist | |||||
| 360-degree 3D monitor | |||||
| Hill Descent Control | |||||
| Autonomous emergency braking | |||||
| Adaptive cruise control | |||||
| Traffic jam assist | |||||
| Car alarm and engine immobilizer | |||||
| Tire pressure monitoring | |||||
| High beam assist | |||||
| Lane Keep Assist | |||||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||||
| Traffic sign recognition | |||||
| Suspension | |||||
| Front | McPherson Strut | ||||
| Rear | Torsion beam | ||||
| Brake | |||||
| Front Ventilated Disc | |||||
| Rear Disc | |||||
