GAC GS8: A Bold SUV with Dual-Personality Powertrains

The GS8’s visual presence is its strongest asset – it looks larger and more expensive than its class suggests, with a bold grille and sharp LED lighting. The interior is genuinely spacious: third-row seats are usable for adults on short trips, and the second row slides and reclines generously. The hybrid variant delivers impressive fuel thriftiness for a large SUV, with near-seamless transitions between electric and petrol power, making it a compelling choice for those covering long distances or heavy city traffic. Build quality feels robust, with tight panel gaps and well-damped doors.

Ride comfort is a key compromise: the suspension is firm, especially on the petrol version with larger wheels, translating into noticeable thumps over sharp bumps. The petrol engine sounds coarse under hard acceleration, and the automatic transmission can be hesitant when downshifting. The hybrid’s regenerative braking feels grabby at low speeds, requiring adaptation. Rear visibility is poor due to thick pillars and a small rear window, making the 360-degree camera essential. Infotainment response can lag, and menu logic is not intuitive – frequent users may find the touchscreen frustrating for quick adjustments.

Around town, the hybrid is relaxed and quiet in electric mode, but the petrol version feels busy due to the engine’s constant presence. The steering is light and easy for parking, but lacks feedback on highways. Front seats are supportive with good adjustment range, but the third row is best reserved for children or shorter trips – legroom is tight for adults, and the floor is high. Air conditioning is powerful, and the cabin filters keep air fresh. Noise insulation is decent at low speeds, but wind noise becomes noticeable above highway speeds.

Cargo space is generous with both rear seats folded, creating a flat load floor. Underfloor storage exists but is limited. The hybrid’s battery does not encroach on cabin or boot space. USB ports are plentiful across all rows, and wireless charging is available. The panoramic sunroof brightens the cabin but reduces headroom slightly in the third row. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which often bypass the native system’s shortcomings. Digital instrument cluster offers clear readouts but limited customization.

Reliability of GAC is still establishing itself in international markets – parts availability may be patchy outside major cities. The hybrid system is complex and should only be serviced by specialized technicians. Some owners report premature wear on the leather upholstery, particularly on high-contact areas. The battery cooling fan can be audible in the cabin. Resale value is uncertain compared to established Japanese rivals. The automatic parking feature is slow and occasionally misjudges spaces, so manual parking is often faster.

Shortlist the GS8 if you need a large, affordable-to-run SUV (especially the hybrid) for family hauling, and value bold styling and passenger space over plush ride quality. It’s a strong choice for suburban or country driving where efficiency on longer trips matters. Avoid it if you prioritize a calm, isolated ride or require a polished premium interior – the material choices are good but not luxurious. Also avoid if you are uncomfortable with a newer brand’s service network or plan frequent off-roading, as the all-wheel drive is more for traction than rugged terrain.