Legado Motors Inc. (LMI), the official distributor of GAC models in the Philippines, has just brought in the refreshed GS8 SUV for the 2022 model year. It’s still the same first-generation GS8 model, but it does get some new exterior bits plus some improvements to its interior.
The GAC GS8 seven-seater crossover SUV for the Philippine market
On the outside, the most obvious changes to the new GS8 include a new chrome piece on the front bumper. The front bumper also gets a pair of larger intake vents, while the rear now comes with a silver-colored faux skid plate.
Inside, the 2022 GAC GS8 still gets a luxurious-feeling cabin with wood trim and black piano finish dashboard. It still gets the same 10-inch LED display with Apple CarPlay, that is then linked to a six-piece Harman Kardon sound system. The 2022 model also keeps the multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, push-to-start-button, wireless phone charger, sunroof, among other features.
Inside the updated GS8
New to the interior of this GAC model though is the Alcantara leather seats. The front and second-row seats also come with adjustable lumbar support, with the front row seats now equipped with memory function. The second row also gets a separate air-conditioning system control, plus a new USB charging port, as well as an electrical outlet.
The updated GS8 from the side
Moving on to safety, the GAC-made SUV comes standard with anti-lock braking with electronic brake-force distribution, 10 airbags, and traction control. Further aiding the driver is a 360-degree camera, parking sensors, a tire-pressure monitoring system, and a power tailgate with motion sensor. It also gets a remote keyless ignition system plus a fingerprint sensor door lock for added security.
As for engines, the 2022 GS8 still uses the same 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 mill that was present in the previous version. At maximum, this gasoline engine can make up to 198 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. It is then paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox. Power is then sent to the front wheels, or all wheels, depending on the variant.
Under the hood of the GS8 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine
Speaking of variants, there are two available ones for the Philippine market. First is the GS8 Sports 2.0 4x2 AT which has a price tag of Php 2,088,000. The more expensive model meanwhile is the GS8 GL 2.0 4x4 AT, which comes with a price of Php 2,288,000.
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