GAC has brought the second generation of its GS3 SUV to the Guangzhou Auto Show. The car, which is styled in accordance with the company’s latest design standards and boasts an upgraded engine along with other modern tech on board, will go on sale in the first half of this year, AutoHome reports.
The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine now churns out 14 extra horsepower for a total of 177 PS (175 hp / 130 kW) and 270 Nm (201 lb-ft) of torque. The automatic transmission is no longer available, replaced by a seven-speed dual-clutch one. Sprinting from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes 7.5 seconds, and the top speed is capped at 190 km/h (118 mph).
Despite taking advantage of an innovative platform known as the GPMA, the crossover SUV still has semi-dependent suspension at the rear. The drive is on the front wheels with no other options.
The car is sized 4,410 x 1,850 x 1,600 mm with 2,650 mm between the axles. As such, it is slightly longer and less tall than the first generation. The wheelbase has gained 90 millimeters (3.5 inches) – not much, but the company says there is now more legroom for everyone.
A peek inside reveals twin multimedia displays merged into a single unit. GAC proudly points out that the infotainment runs on a new operating system called Adigo, marketed as ‘an ecosystem of intelligent driving.’ This largely translates into access to various online services and driver aid performance monitoring. The second generation offers collision prevention and lanekeeping, among other things, and keeps track of their performance.
A sported-up R-Style version has also debuted alongside the standard GS3. It remains to be seen whether the tech is any different, but the visual differences are immediately noticeable. There is a pronounced front splitter with side canards, upsized wheals and highlighted exhaust tips in the middle of the rear diffuser. The steering wheel is squared-off from below and the seats offer enhanced lateral support for a more ergonomic ride.
The pricing details are pending.
