GAC Philippines, which is managed by Astara Philippines, is poised to release the GS8 4x4 variant for the local market.
The GAC GS8 (global version shown)
This was confirmed by the car brand itself, and the new GS8 variant’s official launch is scheduled to happen on August 25, 2023, at the Glorietta 2 Mall in Makati City. Of note, this coincides with the GAC Discovery Drive Fest event which highlights the brand’s lineup of cars.
As its name implies, the GS8 4x4 is the off-road capable version of the currently available GS8 4x2 front-wheel-drive (FWD) version. But other than what its 4x4 moniker is hinting, no other specs for this new variant were shared by GAC for now.
If we go by the global version of the GS8 4x4 however, it is expected to use the same 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and the same eight-speed automatic gearbox that’s found on the locally available version. Aboard the 4x4 trim, the said engine will likely output 248 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque as well.
The Philippine-spec GS8 GT 4x2 AT
The 4x4 GS8’s global version retains the same MacPherson strut and Multi-link beam suspension setup found on the FWD variant. Added though, are new drive modes, which In other markets, include sand, mud, and snow.
The same story goes for the interior of the upcoming GS8 4x4. There’s a good chance that it will mirror the current FWD version and it will also feature leather seats, a sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, a power tailgate, a seven-inch digital gauge cluster, and a 14-inch touchscreen.
We also won’t be surprised if it gets the same level of safety as well. On the current version, the GS8 already has an extensive advanced driver-assistive safety suite which includes a 360-degree view camera, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, etc.
It is likely that the GS8 4x4's interior will look identical to the insides of the FWD variant
With all that said though, the GS8 4x4 might be positioned by the brand as a flagship model. No prices were shared for now, but there’s a big possibility that it’ll be a fair bit pricier than the GAC GS8 4x2. For your reference, is locally available GS8 4x2 trim is currently priced at Php 2,398,000.
For more updates on the upcoming 2024 GAC GS8 4x4 and other new car releases, keep it here on Philkotse.