2023 GAC Empow debuts with 168-hp turbo gasoline engine 

Crossovers and MPVs have typically made up the bulk of offerings from GAC Motor Philippines. Now, the automaker wants to diversify its product range with the 2023 Empow sport compact that’s ready to set our roads on fire with 168 horsepower. 

The Empow was first previewed in semi-concept form at the 2020 Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition

“The Empow is most ideal for customers who want a sports sedan that looks as great as it drives. It provides the performance advantage without compromise at a price point that is well within reach,” said GAC Motor Philippines brand head Jun Cajayon. “The Empow is, without a doubt, a vehicle that makes a strong statement on the road.”

This isn’t the first three-box model from GAC Motor Philippines, as it previously sold the GA4 compact and GA8 executive sedans that have since been discontinued in our market. The Empow also has the GA4’s reputation to live up to, with the latter demonstrating a strong showing at the Kalayaan Cup 12-hour Endurance Challenge for four consecutive years.  

We take a look at whether the 2023 GAC Empow, as a more overt performance model, is a worthy successor to the GA4. 

Exterior

The Empow measures 4,700mm long, 1,850mm wide, and 1,432mm high while riding on a 2,736mm wheelbase. Its most evident asset is a flowing silhouette accompanied by a muscular presence. Headlining the sculpted front fascia is a large grille surrounded by automatic LED headlamps up top.  

A set of 18-inch alloy wheels punctuates every corner of the Empow

A sharp character line spans the doors, accompanied by a secondary crease below that exudes an air of dynamism. The thick C-pillars beyond the second row windows lend a fastback shape, framing the rear glass that slopes toward the trunk under which wraparound tail lamps can be found. Quad exhaust tips are embedded within the rear diffuser, and the Empow rides on a set of 18-inch alloy wheels.     

Interior 

Even the cabin of the Empow communicates performance, with seats inspired by fighter jets. These are complemented by colored leather panels not unlike those found on exotic supercars, along with a dose of carbon fiber trim. 

The interior features generous amounts of carbon fiber trim

The driver’s seat features power adjustment, and the carbon fiber even extends to the rear doors. An aircon vent on the second row delivers cool air to passengers, while a sunroof provides more ambient light on long drives.  

Tech & Safety

Right behind the sporty flat-bottom steering wheel sits a dual-screen setup, comprising a 7-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment display that features Apple CarPlay. A number of USB Type A ports allow occupants to charge their smartphones, while the dual-zone automatic climate control features a negative ion air purifier to filter out contaminants and pathogens. 

A built-in negative ion air purifier ensures occupants breathe easy on the journey

A variety of safety are on hand as far as the Empow is concerned. These include six airbags and a built-in tire pressure monitoring system. In addition, users also benefit from driver-assist systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Traffic Jam Assist.

Engine & Drivetrain 

The GAC Empow’s running gear comprises a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that boasts GAC’s in-house MegaWave technology, yielding 168 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque. 

The Empow uses a turbocharged MegaWave engine developed in-house by GAC

Together with the 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, this results in a powertrain that spins the front wheels fast enough to launch the Empow from zero 10 100 km/h in 6.95 seconds.    

Pricing

The 2023 GAC Empow will be sold in three variants and four color options. It starts with the base 1.5L GS DCT at Php 1,135,000, followed by the 1.5L GB DCT at Php 1,215,000, and completed by the 1.5L GE DCT at Php 1,283,000. Available color options are Ivory White, Moonlight Grey, Elegant Black, and Matte Fighter Green. Prices are introductory and valid only until March 31, 2023.   

Two out of the three GAC Empow variants will be available for viewing at dealerships shortly

All GAC Empow units are offered with a 5-year warranty on parts and services. GAC Motor Philippines says that the GS and GB trim levels will be available for viewing at authorized dealers within the next few days, while the top-spec GE variant will arrive in the country by February.  

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