GAC EMZOOM 2025 Review

Unlike its AION V and M8 siblings which get choices of Premium and Luxury, the GAC EMZOOM is available in just one variant. It costs an almost suspiciously cheap $25,590 before on-road costs but it doesn’t leave out critical kit, with plenty of high-end touches rolled in for the cash.

There’s a 14.6-inch central touchscreen, digital dash, 360-degree camera, ventilated driver seat and electric adjustment (but no heating), large sunroof, wireless phone connection and charging.

It also has bold angular exterior styling, 18-inch wheels, decent space throughout and a simple but effective drivetrain: a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Peak outputs of 125kW/250Nm are not headline stuff, but the EMZOOM weighs about 1400kg thanks to a simple front-drive layout and no hybrid batteries or motors to lug about. That means dynamics that don’t need to try and cheat physics and decent fuel economy.

Unfortunately, a Sentury tyre was selected as standard fitment either through regional availability or cost minimisation. Either way, the tyre choice is the EMZOOM’s most significant weakness.

With its bargain price tag, the 2025 GAC EMZOOM is one of the five cheapest cars on sale in Australia right now. So if you’re on a tight budget for a new car, the EMZOOM is an option.

But despite its sharp price, at no point during our first drive did it feel as cheap as it is. The exterior design is likeable and different without being weird, the interior is well screwed together with materials that aren’t trying too hard, and the levels of technology are way above what you might expect from something of the price.

Its 14.6-inch screen is several classes above the budget compact SUV market and contains some interesting and intuitive features, complemented by a small but digital and slick driver’s instrument display – another premium touch.

We also like the roomy and relaxing passenger spaces for all on board with excellent comfort features.

The 341-litre boot isn’t massive but is a useful shape and the large second row of seating converts into more boot space if a respectable 1271 litres is required.

And while a 125kW, 1.5-litre engine mightn’t sound very exciting, its simplicity combined with low vehicle weight provides just enough performance to have some fun. The pairing with a seven-speed DCT enhances the enjoyment out and about, but its calibration feels underdone at stop-start driving and low speeds with laggy response to acceleration.

Another advantage of the turbo four-pot and DCT combination is economy, with our test car returning an efficiency figure not far off the manufacturer’s claim of 6.1 litres per 100km.

Overall, the EMZOOM impresses with a package that feels as though its price should start with a three.

While the 2025 GAC EMZOOM has a solid performing drivetrain that surpasses price expectations, the ride and handling doesn’t quite live up to the same standards. While cruising, there’s a little too much cabin noise and the limits of grip and performance are very easy to find on more dynamic roads.

The steering too, feels as though it has potential, but any initial lightness welcome when parking or moving at low speed robs feel and feedback in the twisties.

The core suspension tune feels as though it has been well executed with a good primary ride and the ability to absorb significant bumps, while the small amount of body roll is proof that the EMZOOM has been engineered for a balance of fun and comfort.

We respect this decision but any shortcomings that limit the dynamics and comfort can be attributed to just one weak link.

The standard-fit Sentury Qirin 990 tyres complain early in cornering, transmit a lot of road noise into the cabin and generate a fair bit of noise too. We also suspect they aren’t showcasing the EMZOOM’s suspension tuning in its best light either, with a fussy secondary ride which should be better given the tall sidewalls.

If it were sitting on our driveway, the EMZOOM’s maiden voyage would be to a tyre shop to have a set of … well pretty much anything ELSE fitted instead. Given the model’s modest positioning, it wouldn’t make sense to spend big on top-shelf rubber. Picking a reputable brand and the budget model would be the best course of action.

We would love to revisit the cheeky EMZOOM once this simple but potentially transformative step has been completed.

While the EMZOOM is offered with a long list of safety technology and features such as 360-degree camera, AEB with vulnerable road user detection, adaptive cruise control and speed sign recognition, it is yet to be assessed by any independent body relevant to the Australian market such as ANCAP or ECAP.

Finally, the EMZOOM is marketed as an SUV, but as it lacks any all-wheel drive or other distinguishable off-road qualification, it’s best to look at it as a crossover or even slightly raised hatchback.

GAC is hitting the Australian market with a multi-pronged attack and the EMZOOM fits into a comprehensive three-car range with a lot to offer. Expecting too much from this $25k car might set you up for disappointment, but with lower expectations, this compact challenger has numerous points of delight.

For those shopping on a budget, the EMZOOM offers space, technology and an uncomplicated drivetrain that manages to be fun and efficient. If you can live without an ANCAP rating for now and have a little left in the wallet for a tyre upgrade, this is one charming little car you should definitely take for a spin.

2025 GAC EMZOOM at a glance:
Price: $25,590
Available: Now
Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 125kW/250Nm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel: 6.1L/100km
CO2: 156g/km
Safety rating: Not tested

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