GAC officially launches in New Zealand with sharp pricing
Words: Kyle Cassidy
Chinese automaker GAC has officially launched in New Zealand today at an Auckland event, confirming pricing for its three-model lineup across multiple segments.
The Guangzhou Automobile Group Motor Co., China’s fifth-largest vehicle manufacturer, is entering the local market with a diverse range spanning petrol, battery electric, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, all marketed under the unified GAC nameplate.
Leading the charge is the GS3 Emzoom compact SUV, priced at a competitive $31,990 before on-road costs. The petrol-powered crossover uses a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 125kW and 270Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The Emzoom is well paced to battle established rivals including the MG ZS (which starts from $27,990), Haval Jolion ($32,990), and Kia Seltos ($33,990).
The all-electric Aion V mid-size SUV arrives with pricing from $49,990 for the base Premium model, while the Aion V Luxury is priced at $51,990. Both variants feature a 150kW/210Nm front-mounted electric motor powered by a 75kWh LFP battery, delivering up to 510km of WLTP range. The SUV can DC fast-charge from 30 to 80 per cent in just 24 minutes at speeds up to 180kW, while 0 to 100km/h takes 7.9 seconds.
Read more – Details revealed for GAC’s New Zealand-bound vehicles
Standard equipment on the Aion V includes 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, panoramic sunroof, a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, 8.8-inch digital driver’s display, wireless phone charging, and heated and ventilated front seats. A unique feature is a 6.6-litre refrigerator in the centre console that can maintain temperatures from -15°C to +50°C.
Rounding out the initial lineup is the M8 plug-in hybrid people mover, priced from $85,990 for the standard model and $89,990 for the M8 Luxury. The seven-seat MPV combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric drive system for a combined output of 274kW and 630Nm. Its 25.57kWh battery provides up to 106km of electric-only range under WLTC testing, positioning it as New Zealand’s only plug-in hybrid people mover and a premium alternative to the Kia Carnival Hybrid.
GAC is sweetening the deal further with a $2,000 launch discount across the range, bringing the effective starting prices to $29,990 for the Emzoom, $47,990 for the base Aion V, and $83,990 for the entry-level M8.
The company has established GAC New Zealand with headquarters in Takapuna. Authorised dealerships include Tauranga Motor Company, with locations in both Tauranga and Hamilton.
GAC has confirmed plans to expand its local lineup with three additional models in 2026, though details remain under wraps.
The company’s arrival adds further depth to the growing contingent of Chinese automakers entering New Zealand, joining BYD, MG, GWM, Omoda, and Chery as competition intensifies in the low-emission vehicle segment.
Customer deliveries are expected to commence shortly following today’s launch event.
