GAC Emzoom Review: Sharp Styling and Low Price Tag Clashed With Transmission Flaws

The entry-level SUV segment is facing intense disruption from Chinese automakers seeking to undercut established legacy brands on price while offering premium-tier features. A prime example is the GAC Emzoom, a compact SUV that has arrived in Australia with an aggressive starting price of AU$25,590 ($17,600 USD). While the vehicle boasts a highly competitive feature sheet and a stylish cabin, real-world testing reveals significant mechanical and software calibration issues that detract from its overall appeal.

First introduced in China in early 2023 under GAC’s Trumpchi sub-brand as the GS3, the second-generation model was rebranded as the Emzoom for its Australian launch last year. It represents one of four models selected by the Chinese manufacturer for the local market. Unlike some of its electrified stablemates, the Emzoom relies on a traditional internal combustion setup.

Pricing and Market Positioning

At AU$25,590, the GAC Emzoom is positioned as one of the most affordable new passenger vehicles in Australia. Its pricing closely rivals other budget-focused offerings, such as the Chery Tiggo 4 at AU$23,990 ($16,500 USD) and the Hyundai Venue, which starts at AU$23,000 ($15,900 USD). However, the Emzoom attempts to distinguish itself through a highly angular, futuristic exterior design aimed at younger demographics.

Under the hood, the Emzoom is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 125 kW (168 hp) and 270 Nm (219 lb-ft) of torque. This power is sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Interior Tech and Cabin Quality

The interior of the Emzoom punches far above its weight class, featuring materials and technologies typically reserved for more expensive vehicles. The cabin is equipped with a flat-bottomed steering wheel, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a prominent 14.6-inch infotainment screen angled toward the driver.

The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Unlike many modern vehicles that relegate all functions to the screen, GAC has retained physical buttons and knobs below the air vents for climate control adjustments. Standard premium touches include a sunroof, ambient lighting, metal speaker grilles on the A-pillars, and a 360-degree camera system.

Driving Dynamics and Transmission Flaws

Despite its impressive static presentation, the Emzoom’s on-road behavior reveals notable engineering shortcomings. The primary issue lies with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. During testing, the gearbox exhibited highly erratic low-speed behavior, surging forward abruptly under light throttle applications. This makes smooth acceleration from a standstill difficult and complicates parking maneuvers, requiring drivers to constantly modulate the brakes to prevent sudden lurches.

Gear changes remain slow and clunky during normal driving, and engaging Sport mode further reduces refinement. The vehicle also suffers from noticeable rev hang, and the steering calibration transitions abruptly from heavy to light as steering lock increases.

Additionally, the blind-spot system presents a significant usability issue. Activating the turn signal projects a live feed from the wing-mirror camera onto the central display. However, the feed is framed by a thick white border that remains illuminated at night, distracting the driver. Unlike other GAC models, this feature cannot be disabled in the settings.

On a positive note, the turbocharged engine provides adequate performance, aided by the vehicle’s relatively light curb weight of 1,415 kg (3,119 lbs). The suspension tuning strikes a reasonable balance between comfort and handling, and real-world fuel efficiency averaged 6.1 l/100 km during testing, outperforming the official manufacturer claim of 6.6 l/100 km.

Technical Overview and Background

About GAC Group

Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. (GAC Group) is a major state-owned Chinese automobile manufacturer headquartered in Guangzhou, Guangdong. Established in 1955, the company has grown to become one of the largest automakers in China, operating joint ventures with international brands such as Toyota and Honda, alongside its proprietary brands like Trumpchi and Aion.

Understanding Dual-Clutch Transmissions

A dual-clutch transmission operates using two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets. This design allows the next gear to be pre-selected, enabling rapid gear changes and improved fuel efficiency compared to a traditional torque converter automatic. However, dry-clutch DCTs and poorly calibrated wet-clutch systems often struggle with low-speed smoothness, leading to hesitations or sudden engagement—a common engineering hurdle in budget-focused vehicles.