GAC Motor Philippines ended 2023 on a solid note by giving media members an exclusive preview of the two highly anticipated MPV models, the M8 and M6 Pro.
According to Astara Philippines, the official distributor of GAC vehicles in the country, these upcoming models will debut in early 2024. Further, these new Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs) are the first installment of six cars the company plans to launch in the coming year.
“We are proud to offer a preview into our upcoming releases for early 2024 – the M8, the flagship of GAC’s new generation premium MPV line, and the M6 Pro, a true seven-seater family SUV designed for optimal comfort and abundant space. These two models will set a new benchmark in travel, especially among Filipinos who love to travel with family and friends,” said Franz Decloedt, Astara Philippines brand head for GAC Motor.
The luxurious M8
GAC claims the M8 is a meticulously crafted MPV, set to redefine the premium MPV segment with its advanced technology, opulent configuration, and unparalleled comfort. Its design presents a sleek and pure body profile, accented by striking elements such as the multifunction LED Headlights, wide chrome grille, and 18-inch wheels.
This seven-seater luxe MPV follows a 2-2-3 configuration. Interior amenities offer a relaxing and comfortable zone, with features like second-row captain chairs, three-zone automatic air conditioning, and power-adjustable seats with massage functions. It also comes equipped with a 14.6-inch multifunctional touchscreen integrated with Apple CarPlay and CarLife, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, two table trays, and multiple USB and charging ports, to name a few.
Motivation comes from a 2.0-liter TGDI engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, generating 248hp and 400N-m of torque. Safety-wise, it has multiple airbags, an electronic stability program, a Hill-start hold, and control, plus a host of advanced driving assistance systems.
M6 Pro MPV
According to GAC, the M6 Pro is a genuine seven-seater MPV featuring a frontier design, generous space, the latest safety and security technology, and a comfortable cabin. Designed for families on the go, the M6 Pro combines practicality with style, featuring 18” wheels, multifunction automatic LED headlights, and a surround-view camera system (GL variant). Some available cabin features are second-row captain’s chairs, two-zone automatic air conditioning, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and a 10.25-inch multifunctional touchscreen integrated with Apple CarPlay and CarLife.
Motivation comes from a 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine mated to a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, generating 174hp and 270N-m of torque. As for safety and security, some features are front dual and curtain airbags, a suite of ADAS systems, a tire pressure monitoring system, and ISOFIX seats for children.
As for pricing, GAC Motor Philippines shared indicative figures representing each model and variant. The M8 GL will be priced from P3 million to P3.1 million, while the higher-spec M8 GX Master will be from P4 million to P4.1 million. On the other hand, the M6 Pro GS will retail between P1.2 million to P1.3 million, while the M6 Pro GL will be at P1.5 million to P1.6 million. According to GAC, final pricing will be announced closer to the launch date in early 2024.
Solid sales and new dealers
Meanwhile, GAC Motor Philippines is concluding the year with an optimistic outlook, expressing confidence in achieving its target of 2,000 units in retail sales by the year’s end. This remarkable projection reflects a substantial year-over-year growth of 378%, underscoring the brand’s growing popularity among car buyers in the Philippine market.
The notable increase in sales can be attributed to the increasing demand for its product lineup, which includes the Empow, Emkoo, Emzoom, and GS8. The company’s network expansion has reinforced the record sales growth, setting up 20 dealer outlets in strategic locations nationwide.
“We express our gratitude to everyone actively contributing to the growth of the GAC brand in the Philippines — customers, dealer partners, and friends in the media. Our confidence in the outstanding products offered by GAC remains steadfast, and we firmly believe in the brand’s substantial potential in this market,” said Raoul Picello, Managing Director of Astara Philippines.
In a recently concluded Year-End Business Review and 2024 Kick-Off convention for dealer partners, seven new partners signed on as new dealer partners with GAC Motor Philippines. This development contributes to advancing Astara towards its objective of expanding the GAC network to 35 locations in the Philippines by 2024.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino