Discover how the new GAC GS3 Emzoom performs on Malaysia’s Sepang F1 circuit – a high‑ground‑clearance SUV that could reshape Vietnam’s B‑segment market. Read the full test now!
The roar of a Formula 1 car, the sleek lines of a world‑class circuit – every driving enthusiast dreams of conquering an F1 track at least once. While most of us will never get behind a genuine F1 machine, I recently had the chance to put a compact, high‑ground‑clearance SUV through its paces on the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. The test vehicle? The brand‑new GAC GS3 Emzoom, GAC Motors’ latest entry into the fiercely competitive B‑segment SUV market.
Why GAC Is Targeting the Vietnamese Market
After rolling out mid‑size SUVs and MPVs, Chinese automaker GAC Motors is gearing up to launch a more affordable model for Vietnam. The GAC GS3 Emzoom slots into the B‑segment (sub‑compact) SUV class, a space already crowded with around 20 rivals ranging from Korean and Japanese brands to home‑grown Vietnamese offerings. GAC hopes the Emzoom’s compact dimensions, modern tech, and elevated ride height will make it an easy sell – what the company calls a “easy‑to‑buy” vehicle.
First Impressions: Right‑Hand‑Drive Layout
The test car was a right‑hand‑drive (RHD) version, which meant the steering wheel sat on the right side of the cabin – a setup unfamiliar to most Vietnamese drivers. Despite the novelty, the Emzoom felt intuitive thanks to well‑placed controls and a clean, responsive digital display. The Premium R trim used for the Sepang tests came fully equipped with GAC’s ADAS suite, including lane‑keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Powertrain and Performance Figures
In Malaysia, the Emzoom is powered by a 1.5‑litre TGDI turbocharged engine delivering 174 hp and a hefty 270 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a wet‑clutch 7‑speed dual‑clutch transmission. GAC claims a 0‑100 km/h sprint in 8 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h – impressive numbers for a sub‑compact SUV.
Track Test – Slalom
The first maneuver was a slalom course at a steady 40‑50 km/h. The Emzoom’s steering response was sharp, and the electronic stability system kept body roll to a minimum. The high ground clearance did not compromise agility; the vehicle navigated the zig‑zag without any hesitation.
Track Test – Double Lane Change
Next came a double lane‑change at higher speeds. The SUV maintained composure, demonstrating that its chassis and suspension can handle rapid lane shifts – a scenario that mimics emergency evasive actions on real roads.
Braking Test – High‑Speed Stop
For the final assessment, the Emzoom was accelerated to 60 km/h, 80 km/h and 110 km/h before slamming on the brakes. Each time the car achieved the target speed quickly, and the braking distance was a consistent 55 m, stopping cleanly before a pre‑placed barrier. The combination of strong engine braking and the ADAS‑enabled emergency brake contributed to the short stopping distances.
Full Lap Experience
After the structured tests, I was handed the steering wheel for two full laps of the Sepang circuit. Once the speed topped 100 km/h, the Emzoom showed a modest amount of rear‑end squeal in tight corners – a natural characteristic of a front‑wheel‑drive, high‑clearance vehicle. Nevertheless, the SUV remained stable, largely thanks to the high‑performance Continental tires fitted for the day.
Testing Conditions vs. Real‑World Driving
It’s important to note that these results were achieved on a pristine racing surface, under controlled conditions, and with premium tires. Translating the same performance to everyday city traffic, potholes, or wet roads would be a different story. The Emzoom’s impressive numbers should be seen as a best‑case scenario rather than a guarantee of daily performance.
What to Expect in Vietnam
GAC plans to launch the top‑spec Premium R version in Vietnam around July. While the Sepang test car sported Continental performance tires, the Vietnamese market model may come with standard all‑season tires, which could affect grip levels.
Pricing and Competition
GAC is positioning the GS3 Emzoom as the most affordable model in its Vietnam lineup, following the higher‑priced GAC M8, GS8, and M6 Pro. Analysts predict a launch price in the VND 600‑650 million range (≈ US$24‑26k). This places the Emzoom directly against strong sellers such as the VinFast VF 6 (the segment’s best‑selling model with over 11,000 units sold in the first five months of the year), Toyota Yaris Cross, Mitsubishi Xforce, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, and a host of Chinese rivals like Geely Coolray, Lynk & Co 06, BYD Atto 2, and MG ZS.
Brand Presence and After‑Sales Support
GAC has been in Vietnam for almost two years, operating 13 dealerships nationwide with plans to expand. Building consumer trust remains the biggest hurdle for Chinese automakers. If GAC can back the Emzoom with solid warranty terms, reliable after‑sales service, and competitive financing, the SUV could become a serious contender in the crowded B‑segment.
Final Verdict
The Sepang F1 test shows that the GAC GS3 Emzoom is a well‑engineered, fun‑to‑drive compact SUV with strong power, modern driver‑assist features, and a comfortable ride height for urban environments. Its real‑world success will hinge on pricing, tyre choice, and the brand’s ability to earn Vietnamese buyers’ confidence. Keep an eye on this one – it could shake up the sub‑compact SUV landscape in Southeast Asia.