The New Monjaro vs GAC GS8: Which Chinese SUV Should You Choose?

The New Monjaro feels more agile and responsive around town, with a lighter steering feel and a powertrain that delivers brisk acceleration for merging and overtaking. Its suspension is tuned firmer, providing confident handling but transmitting more road imperfections into the cabin. In contrast, the GAC GS8 prioritizes a relaxed, wafting ride quality. Its steering is slower and less communicative, but the suspension soaks up bumps and potholes admirably, making it a more relaxing companion for long commutes or highway cruising. The GS8’s powertrain is smooth but feels less urgent; it’s adequate for daily driving without encouraging spirited driving.

The Monjaro’s cabin is well-insulated from wind noise at highway speeds, but there’s noticeable road noise on coarse surfaces due to its firmer suspension. The seats are supportive with good lateral bolstering, though the ride can feel busy over broken pavement. The GS8, meanwhile, shines in isolation: it’s quieter at all speeds, with better suppression of road and engine noise. Its seats are plusher and offer more adjustment, including a relaxing ‘zero gravity’ mode in higher trims. The GS8’s climate control is also more effective, with rear-seat controls standard. For outright luxury feel, the GS8 leads.

The Monjaro provides generous space for five passengers, with adequate headroom and legroom in both rows. The boot is sizeable and has a low loading lip, making it easy to load heavy items. However, it only seats five. The GS8, available as a seven-seater, offers true three-row capability. The third row is tight for adults but usable for children or short trips. With all seats up, boot space is minimal, but the middle row slides and reclines to balance passenger and cargo space. For families needing occasional seven-seat capacity, the GS8 is far more practical. Additionally, the GS8’s cabin storage, including large door bins and a deep centre console, beats the Monjaro.

The Monjaro features a prominent curved dual-screen layout that looks modern and provides crisp graphics. Its infotainment system is responsive, with intuitive menus and wireless smartphone mirroring that connects seamlessly. The voice assistant understands natural language well for climate and media control. The GS8 also has a dual-screen setup, but its system is slightly slower and less intuitive, with a steeper learning curve. However, the GS8 compensates with more standard driver assistance features, including a 360-degree camera with transparent chassis view and adaptive cruise control that works smoothly in stop-and-go traffic. Both offer over-the-air updates, but the Monjaro’s software feels more polished in daily use.

Geely (Monjaro) and GAC both have improving reliability records, but the GS8 benefits from GAC’s longer history with SUVs and a more established global parts network. The Monjaro is relatively new to many markets, so long-term data is limited. Both brands offer competitive warranties, but GAC’s dealer network in some regions is more extensive, making service access easier. Owners report that the GS8’s mechanical components are robust, while the Monjaro’s electronics can occasionally glitch. For peace of mind, the GS8 edges ahead due to its proven track record and broader support.

Choose The New Monjaro if you prioritize driving engagement, modern tech interface, and a sporty character in a five-seat SUV. It’s ideal for individuals or couples who enjoy driving and want a connected, high-tech cabin. Pick the GAC GS8 if you need a comfortable, spacious family hauler with seven-seat capability, superior ride comfort, and a stronger reputation for reliability. The GS8 is the better choice for buyers who value practicality, isolation, and long-distance comfort over driving thrills.