Car Buyer's Guide

Overview

The second-generation GAC GS3 Emzoom is a B-segment, five-seat petrol SUV launched in Malaysia in 2024. It suits buyers looking beyond the familiar Japanese and national choices, with all variants using a 1.5-litre turbo engine, 177 hp and a wet dual-clutch automatic. Prices start from RM103,800.

GS3 in 2026 — what's new

For 2026, the GS3 Emzoom range is CKD-built with Standard, Exclusive and Premium R variants. The latest Malaysian update is focused on the Premium R, which gets a new grille and two-tone colour choices while keeping its price. The Standard was added and the Exclusive returned as CKD in 2024; the model also has a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating. No powertrain change is listed.

Variants (3)

RM103,800–RM126,800 · est. from RM1,060/mo

Which variant to buy

Most buyers should begin with the Standard CKD at RM103,800 because the core hardware is the same as the Exclusive CKD at RM116,800 and Premium R CKD at RM126,800: 1,497 cc petrol engine, 177 hp, wet dual-clutch automatic and five seats. On paper, the RM13,000 step to Exclusive and further RM10,000 to Premium R pay for trim/equipment; Premium R also gets the 2026 grille and two-tone colours. Check the equipment list before moving up.

Colours

across the range — availability varies by variant

  • Asphalt Black Metallic
  • Ivory White Metallic
  • Graphene Grey Metallic
  • Lake Blue Metallic
  • Superstar Silver Metallic
  • Starlight Silver Metallic

GAC GS3 buyer's guides & reviews

Verdict

The GS3 is a newer Chinese-nameplate B-SUV with a clear performance angle: 177 PS/270 Nm from its 1.5-litre turbo, sent through a wet dual-clutch automatic. It also has CKD pricing below RM130,000 and a five-star ASEAN NCAP result. It is not the cheapest in class: a Toyota Yaris Cross starts lower, while a Mazda CX-3 starts above the Standard. The badge is the question mark.

Buying a new GS3? Sell your old car, get paid in 24 hours

GAC GS3 sales in Malaysia

443 registered so far in 2026 — Malaysia's #75 best-selling model this year.

203 Jul 2025 Jun 2026 Full GS3 sales data, month by month →

GAC GS3 resale value

What a used GS3 holds of its price, by registration year: the trade-guide value insurers and dealers reference, and the price the market typically asks.

A three-year-old GS3 holds about 70% of its original value — stronger than the market average of 64%. The slower the line falls, the better it holds its value.
0% 50% 100% 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Age (years)
GAC GS3 Market average
Year Trade guide Typical asking Holds
2025 RM82,150 89%
2024 RM73,950 80%
2023 RM65,400 70%
2022 RM62,400 67%
2021 RM58,500 63%

Trade-guide and market listing data, West Malaysia. Actual prices vary with condition, mileage and variant; "holds" compares against that year's new price.

Generations

Rivals to consider

same class, similar money

GAC GS3 FAQ

How much is the GAC GS3 in Malaysia?

The GAC GS3 costs from RM103,800 for the Standard CKD, RM116,800 for the Exclusive CKD and RM126,800 for the Premium R CKD.

Which GAC GS3 variant should I buy?

Start with the Standard CKD because all three variants share the same 1,497 cc petrol engine, 177 hp output, wet dual-clutch automatic and five-seat layout. Move up only if the Exclusive or Premium R equipment and trim justify the extra spend.

What engine does the GAC GS3 use?

The GAC GS3 uses a 1,497 cc turbocharged petrol engine. Output is 177 hp, and drive is through a wet dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Does the GAC GS3 have an ASEAN NCAP safety rating?

Yes. The GAC GS3 Emzoom scored a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating in 2024.

Latest GAC GS3 news