With prices starting from just RM 88k, the GAC GS3 is just slightly more expensive than the Perodua Ativa, but cheaper than the Proton X50. Like its Malaysian rivals, the GS3 is a subcompact crossover aimed at the same crowd of buyers. It is imported (CBU) from Hangzhou, China.
Two variants are offered in Malaysia: 1.5 Standard and 1.5 Premium. Both are powered by the same naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (codenamed 4A15K1) that does 114 PS and 150 Nm, with an Aisin-sourced 6-speed automatic transmission routing power to the front wheels.
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Seeing that the GAC GS3 competes in the same subcompact crossover segment as the Ativa and X50, its dimensions are also very close.
Dimensions comparison |
Dimensions |
GAC GS3 |
X50 |
Ativa |
Length (mm) |
4,350 |
4,330 |
4,065 |
Width (mm) |
1,825 |
1,800 |
1,710 |
Height (mm) |
1,660 |
1,609 |
1,635 |
Wheelbase (mm) |
2,560 |
2,600 |
2,525 |
Boot space comes in at 356 litres, which can be expanded to 780 litres with the 60:40 split fold rear seats folded down.
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Interestingly, the GAC GS3’s fuel tank is rather massive, at 50 litres. That’s considerably larger than the Ativa’s 36-litre tank and the X50’s 45-litre tank.
Both variants of the GAC GS3 offer halogen headlights, LED tail lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, sunroof, stability control, blind spot detection, and a reverse camera.
Also Read: Spied: GAC's Trumpchi GS3 Power spotted in Malaysia - new X50 rival coming soon?
Unlike the Ativa or X50, the GAC GS3 offers support for Apple CarPlay via its 8-inch infotainment display.
Climbing up the hierarchy, the GS3 1.5 Premium adds front fog lights, shark fin antenna, roof rails, keyless entry with push start button, and side airbags, bringing the total airbag count to six.
The GAC GS3 is covered by a 5-year/150,000 km manufacturer’s warranty and comes with free labour charge for five scheduled services.