The SUV parade is powering on and a new Chinese automaker, Guangzhou Automobile Group, is about to enter Pakistan. The company is reportedly gearing up to launch the GS3 crossover SUV in Pakistan to compete with the likes of Kia, MG, Hyundai, DFSK, Haval, etc.
According to a reliable source from the industry, the company will initially import Completely Built-Up (CBU) units of the SUV in Pakistan and will eventually move towards selling locally assemble SUVs in the country.
GAC Motor is one of the biggest automobile conglomerates in Asia, with several joint ventures with other automakers such as Toyota, Honda, Isuzu, Fiat, Mitsubishi, BYD, and Hino. These joint ventures have allowed it to produce and sell foreign-branded products even in China.
Its vehicle lineup includes electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (HFCVs) that are currently under development.
The GS3 is a subcompact crossover SUV that is intended to rival the Kia Stonic and the MG ZS. It is offered in the international market with a choice of a 1.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine, and a 1.4-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol engine. Both engines power only the front wheels via either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The source did not share any details about the prices and the launch dates of these vehicles, but given that they are modern and well-equipped, their price tags are likely to appeal to only a small niche of premium car buyers.
