GAC Emkoo: bold design, big space, but does it deliver? – test drive review

In the Malaysian market, there is a wide selection of C‑segment SUVs ranging from Japanese brands to Chinese manufacturers, including the GAC Emkoo.

Priced between RM123,800 and RM133,800, it comes equipped with the essential features expected of a modern SUV.

Perhaps because it’s rarely seen on the road, the Emkoo actually stands out more in urban environments, making other C‑segment SUVs fade into the background.

So the question is: is this SUV worth owning?

Dimensions

In terms of size, the Emkoo is a relatively large C‑segment SUV, comparable to Honda’s offerings.

Its measures — 4,680 mm long, 1,901 mm wide, 1,670 mm tall, and a 2,750 mm wheelbase — give it a more commanding presence.

Cargo space is a generous 638 litres, sufficient for daily necessities.

If you need more room, simply fold the second‑row seats to expand the space to 1,568 litres.

As standard, the Emkoo rides on 19‑inch wheels wrapped in Continental EcoContact 6 tyres.

Futuristic Design

To visually reduce its large proportions, GAC employs a mecha‑inspired design language paired with sportier body elements.

A V‑shaped grille gives the Emkoo a bold and distinctive identity, complemented by the “Eye of Revelation” matrix LED headlights.

The rear design draws inspiration from lightsabers, giving the Emkoo a unique look, especially at night.

However, from a straight rear angle, the slim light structure can appear slightly empty.

Believe it or not, despite its angular body, the Emkoo still achieves an aerodynamic drag coefficient of 0.317 Cd.

High‑Tech Cockpit

The futuristic theme continues inside, especially on the dashboard.

Circular design motifs appear on the centre air vents, complete with a rotary temperature control knob, though its placement is slightly far for the driver to reach comfortably.

Both the 10.25‑inch digital cluster and 10.1‑inch infotainment display offer sharp, easy‑to‑read graphics.

The floating centre console houses a compact crystal‑style gear selector, cupholders, the start/stop button, and the hazard light switch.

Cabin space feels ample for daily use, aided by a flat rear floor and easy ingress and egress.

Thanks to its generous dimensions, headroom and legroom are impressive.

Adding to the sense of openness is a 1.98 m² panoramic glass roof.

Driving and Handling

On paper, the GAC Emkoo is powered by a 1.5‑litre turbocharged inline‑four producing 177 PS and 270 Nm, paired with a 7‑speed DCT.

There are three drive modes (Eco, Comfortable, and Sport) though most of the time, Comfortable feels best suited for daily driving.

The light steering response makes manoeuvring easy, but switching to Sport adds a bit more weight for confident control.

MacPherson struts up front and a multi‑link rear setup contribute to stable handling and comfortable ride quality on typical Malaysian roads.

You will, however, need some time to get used to the brake response, which can feel abrupt at times.

What Else Did We Like?

From the driver’s seat, the head‑up display is genuinely useful, presenting key information clearly at a glance.

The driver’s seat memory function is a favourite, it eases entry and exit when the door is opened or the engine is turned off.

The six‑speaker DTS audio system delivers pleasant sound quality, making long drives more enjoyable.

The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

USB Type‑A and Type‑C ports are available, and if you forget your cable, there’s also a 50W wireless charging pad.

Safety

Safety equipment is largely standard across both variants.

Features include six airbags, tire pressure monitoring (TPMS), and a comprehensive ADAS suite.

The Premium Pro variant adds Full Automatic Parking Assist (FAPA), which helps simplify daily parking tasks.

It’s no surprise that the Emkoo earned a five‑star ASEAN NCAP rating last year.

Conclusion

After several days of testing, we conclude that the GAC Emkoo is a large, comfortable family SUV, ideal for those who want something that doesn’t look too conventional.

With competitive pricing, solid specifications, and a complete safety package offered as standard, the GAC Emkoo stands as a genuinely worthwhile purchase.

For your information, this SUV is locally assembled at the Segambut plant, making it the second CKD model after the GAC GS3 Emzoom.