If ever there was a car that looked like it stepped straight out of a concept sketch into real life, it’s the GAC Emkoo a futuristic, head-turning SUV that has officially landed on South African streets. And when Thee Sneak Preview took this machine for a spin through the stylish heart of Pretoria, Johannesburg and made a cameo at the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz launch, all eyes were on one thing: The GAC Emkoo in that seductive grey-brown finish.
Who is GAC and Where Does Emkoo Come From?
GAC Motor stands for Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., one of China’s top 5 automakers. Established in 1954 and now expanding globally, GAC is serious about design and innovation. The Emkoo (aka the Trumpchi Emkoo in China) debuted as a “Vision Emkoo” concept before going into production with barely any changes a rare feat in auto design. With EMKOO said to be the “EMOTIONAL COOL” hence we have the EMKOO. How KOOL is that?
The Colour: Grey-Brown Drama with Designer Vibes
This isn’t your average grey or a half-hearted bronze GAC calls it “Meteorite Grey-Brown“, and it’s nothing short of street couture. In different lighting, the Emkoo shifts from gunmetal confidence to rich espresso undertones, commanding attention without shouting. Paired with its sharply sculpted lines and boomerang LED headlamps, this paint job gives “G-status” in the most effortless way.
Rims & Street Presence – Futuristic, Fresh, and Flawless
The 19-inch diamond-cut alloys scream sport-luxury, with a bold five-spoke split design that feels lifted from a hypercar design lab. The aggressive stance, gloss black accents, and hidden rear door handles complete the illusion this is not your cousin’s budget SUV. This is GAC flexing hard.
Taking it to Pretoria’s busy avenues, the Emkoo became a moving photoshoot. At the Joy of Jazz launch, it parked with presence pulling attention from even the best-dressed attendees. Yes, the saxophones played but the Emkoo sang.
Interior – A Jazz Lounge on Wheels
Step inside, and you’re met with a cockpit that’s part art gallery, part digital lounge. The dashboard is asymmetric and dramatic, floating seamlessly into the doors with soft-touch materials and bold copper stitching. The 14.6-inch infotainment screen feels larger than life and is tilted just enough toward the driver to make you feel like you’re piloting a spaceship.
Panoramic Sunroof – Offers generous natural light and vibes during Jozi sunsets and the stars feel closer at night honey. Stuff only dreams are made of…
Voice Prompt Command – A simple “Hello GAC” lets you adjust climate, open windows, and control media no hands needed.
Seats – Supportive, ventilated, and stitched like designer handbags. Front seats even have a lounge recline for jazz intermissions.
Ambient Lighting – A standout feature for mood-setters—customizable interior lighting allows you to match your ambiance to different moods of the day. Whether it’s a calming blue for late-night drives, warm amber during golden hour, or vibrant tones for pre-party energy, the Emkoo lets you light your world your way.
Tech & Features – AI-Driven & Ultra Connected
The Emkoo is powered by GAC’s in-house ADiGO 5.0 AI system, with:
Intelligent voice assistant
360° camera with 3D rendering
Adaptive cruise control
Lane-keeping assist
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Drive Modes & Performance
Powered by a 1.5L turbocharged engine (130kW, 270Nm), the Emkoo isn’t built for drag strips—it’s tuned for dynamic urban driving, with modes that adapt to your mood:
Eco – For sipping fuel across Gauteng traffic
Normal – Your daily dose of comfort and stability
Sport – Responsive throttle, tighter steering—feel every note on the road
Expect a smooth 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, and front-wheel drive that feels stable and balanced.
At the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz launch, GAC Emkoo didn’t just arrive it debuted like a headliner. Attendees turned, snapped photos, and complimented its concept-car lines and dazzling cabin. It blended right into the jazz crowd sophisticated, stylish, and totally in tune with the vibe.
Fun Facts About the Emkoo
Inspired by sci-fi: The design team referenced Transformers, modern architecture, and even anime for the aggressive silhouette.
- GAC owns a design centre in Milan that Euro flair? Not a coincidence.
- The Emkoo uses ADAS tech from Bosch and AI systems developed in-house by GAC.
- Jet-inspired tail lights actually mimic fighter jets—and yes, they light up like one, too.
Pricing, Competitors, & What You Should Earn
GAC Emkoo 1.5T GT (Top Spec):
Price: R549,900
Competitors:
Haval H6 GT – R584,950
Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max – R609,900
Hyundai Tucson Elite – R599,900
VW Tiguan Life 1.4 TSI – R599,000+
The Emkoo undercuts most rivals while offering bolder styling and tech. It’s a flagship value disruptor in the mid-size SUV class.
Suggested Salary Range:
To comfortably afford the Emkoo (financing over 72 months, 10% deposit, R10k monthly insurance/lifestyle buffer), you’d ideally be earning:
R25,000 – R35,000/month (net)
Insurance Options
Monthly premiums range from R1,100 to R1,800, depending on:
Driver profile
Location (Pretoria central vs. suburbs)
Tracker installation
Insurance provider (MiWay, King Price, Discovery, etc.)
Tip – GAC offers factory warranties (5yr/150,000km) and service plans, easing ownership costs.
Why the GAC Emkoo Should Be Your Next Car – According to Thee Sneak Preview
Because in a world filled with safe, copy-paste SUVs, the Emkoo is bold, futuristic, luxurious, and practical. It’s a conversation starter whether parked at a jazz club, rolling through Pretoria, Gqhebera, Polokwane, Mbombela, Kimberly Rusternburg or featured in your next reel.
- And it offers..
Premium experience without the premium price tag
Real-world practicality with next-level tech
An SUV that doesn’t follow trends it defines them
And most importantly: It’s for the daring. The stylish. The disruptors. The dreamers….
