GAC Motor unveils Empow R as more performance-ready sports sedan

GAC Motor is one of the automakers that continues to offer a sports sedan model in its lineup. Locally, this GAC sports sedan has been launched earlier this year with the Empow.

GAC Empow R

But the Chinese automaker wants to take it up a notch as it unveiled the GAC Empow R 2.0T at this year’s Auto Shanghai. This is a sportier version of the compact sedan, looking to make a noise with its more aggressive design and larger engine.

Exterior

Exterior-wise, the new GAC Empow R 2.0T flaunts a sportier design, with the front end dominated by a track-ready finish. The grille is flanked by a familiar full LED headlight design and new side air intakes, which should help cool down the engine.

It is a sportier take on the Empow compact sedan

The sporty nature of the vehicle is further emphasized at the back as the Empow R gets a bigger rear bumper, diffuser, and quad exhaust. A wing or spoiler is also mounted on the trunk lid, which not only provides a sporty look but also helps improve aerodynamics by keeping the sedan planted on the road.

Interior

Inside, you might still find it somehow familiar with the non-R version as it still uses the same jet fighter cockpit layout, with the seats using microfiber suede. It also retained the black interior theme including the pillars and headliner.

The interior gets a sporty treatment as well

What’s new is the addition of new front bucket seats in black, with the headrests getting “R” stitching. These can hold drivers tightly in place even when tackling corners at high speeds. Moreover, the cabin comes with a leather steering wheel with paddle shifters.

Tech & Safety

Dominating the dashboard of this sedan is a large infotainment screen that's seamlessly linked to an instrument panel. These screens are capable of displaying performance-related data such as turbo pressure and oil temperature. 

The screens can aid track performance

Like the standard model, the Empow R is expected to come with Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) functions.

Engine & Powertrain

Under the hood, the GAC Empow R uses a larger 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as opposed to the 1.5-liter turbo engine in the standard model. It is capable of making 265 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The R badge adds sportiness from the front to the back

If the powertrains seem familiar, the Honda Civic and Civic Type R have similar setups. The Civic and Civic Type R also use 1.5-liter turbo and 2.0-liter turbo engines, respectively. 

Comparing the Empow R to the Civic Type R, the Chinese sports sedan makes a bit less power. But the Honda hot hatch comes standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox so the Empow R should get a slight advantage when it comes to gear shifting.

It would be interesting for us to see the two go at it on track. But as of this writing, GAC Motor Philippines hasn’t put out a word regarding a possible arrival of the Empow R. The company has been busy with the launching of the top-spec Empow GE, which was recently showcased at the 2023 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).

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