Which 2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom should you buy? [Comparison Guide]

The 2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom is now avaialble in the Philippine market. It has three different variants, the entry-level GS, the mid-spec GB, and the top-spec GL. Each offers a slightly different set of features with the GL having the most in terms of safety and comfort. 

The 2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom GL top-spec variant

So which of the three GS3 Emzoom trims is right for you? Let’s help you answer that question by comparing the all-new crossover’s three different variants. 

GAC GS3 Emzoom Variant Guide: Exterior

All three GS3 Emzoom variants sport roughly the same silhouette and exterior design elements. There are some differences though. For starters, the GS and GB have a length of 4,410mm while the top-spec GL is the longest at 4,446mm.

2023 GAC GS3 Emzoom GB

All three have identical widths at 1,850mm and the same heights at 1,600mm, but the GL gets a set of 19-inch wheels, while the other two ride on 18-inch wheels. 

Only the GL gets a sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic headlamps. Standard on all three are LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, rear fog lamps, and power-folding side mirrors. The GL is also the sportier among the three thanks to its body kits. 

Midspec GB from the rear

Of note, only the GL gets a power tailgate at least according to the spec sheet provided by GAC Motor PH. At its local launch event, however, the displayed mid-spec GB units did come with the said feature. 

GAC GS3 Emzoom Variant Guide: Interior

The three available GS3 Emzoom trims feature similar cabin layouts. The entire variant lineup gets a multi-function steering wheel, a two-tone interior color scheme, and push-to-start buttons, among others. 

The midspec GB's front cabin

Only the top-spec GL gets ambient lighting, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and one-touch front power windows. It is also the sole variant that gets a rear center armrest. Meanwhile, both the mid-spec GB and the GL gets leather-wrapped seats, automatic air-conditioning, and rear air-conditioning vents, All variants do come with a 60:40 split folding rear seat.  

All trims feature a spacious trunk

The entry-level GS, in turn, comes with the most basic amenities. It gets fabric seats, a manual air-conditioning system, and a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. 

GAC GS3 Emzoom Variant Guide: Tech and Safety

Common on all three GS3 Emzoom models is a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GB and GL meanwhile, are the only two that get a seven-inch instrument display cluster, while the GS gets a smaller 3.5-inch instrument cluster. 

For cabin sound, the GL gets a total of six speakers. The GB comes with four speakers, while the GS gets a two-piece speaker set. 

USB ports are present on all three GS3 versions, but only the GB and GL get ones for their rear cabins. The GL meanwhile, is the sole trim that’s kitted out with a wireless smartphone charging pad. 

A close look at the GS3 Emzoom's center console

The GAC GS3 Emzoom in general gets what you’d expect from a modern crossover when safety features are concerned. All are fitted with anti-lock braking, stability control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, dual front airbags, an engine immobilizer, and rear parking sensors. Both the GS and GB then get standard cruise control.

Besides its front dual airbags, the GB does get dual front-side airbags which are not available on the entry-level GS. In turn, the top-spec GL is the only one that offers side curtain airbags. 

Parking is also the easiest aboard the GL thanks to its surround-view camera system. The mid-spec GB does come with a rear-view camera, while the GS is left to rely solely on its parking sensors. 

The only GS3 trim with advanced driver-assistive features (ADAS) is the top-spec GL. It gets adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, traffic jam assist, high beam assist, traffic sign recognition, lane keep assist, and lane departure warning. 

GAC GS3 Emzoom Variant Guide: Engine

Standard on all GS3 Emzoom variants is a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine capable of making up to 174 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque. The said engine is then paired to a seven-speed wet-type dual-clutch automatic gearbox sending power to the vehicle’s front wheels. 

Handling ride comfort for this all-new GAC model is a MacPherson-type front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. 

GAC GS3 Emzoom Variant Guide: Price

GAC GS3 Emzoom Variant Guide: Conclusion

The GS3 Emzoom GL is the only trim in the lineup that gets ADAS features. That said, buyers who are particularly concerned about safety might want to consider the GL top-spec trim.

But while the GL is the cream of the crop, the GS variant stands as a great option for those who just want a peppy crossover without too many electronic driving nannies. The GB in turn, sits in the middle of the two as it offers more comfort features whilst not having the robust ADAS kit found on the GL. 

The midspec GS3 Emzoom GB from the side

When it comes to performance though, one can imagine that the three variants will handle identically. They all use the same engines and transmissions after all, though note that their variances in curb weight (with the GL the heaviest) can affect handling. So to make sure of that last part, we urge those seriously looking into the GS3 Emzoom to give each of its trims a test drive. 

For more car buying guides, keep it here on Philkotse.