Production Models

The luxury MPV market has boomed in recent years, and Chinese automakers want a slice of the action. One of the newcomers in this segment is the GAC M8, and it's all dressed to impress.

What we have here is the second generation M8, now boasting a bolder exterior and a more opulent interior with technology to match. This MPV is how GAC defines luxury.

Its front end features a powerful and imposing chrome grille flanked by distinct LED headlights dubbed the Awakening Eye. When it comes to road presence, the M8 makes a statement. Creases and folds are featured throughout its body, and GAC calls it the Diamond-Cut exterior design. The rear features a near vertical tailgate with tail lights that follow the form of the headlights.

The GAC M8 is as large as MPVs come, thanks to its exterior dimensions. It's 5212mm long, 1893mm wide, and 1823mm tall with a generous wheelbase of 3070mm. With measurements like that, occupants can expect acres of space in this luxury MPV.

There are two variants of the M8 offered in the Philippines. These are the GL Master and GX Master, the latter being the top-of-the-line model. The GX Master rides on unique wheels, and comes equipped with a starlight panoramic roof, power tailgate, and soundproofed windows all the way.

Opening the doors of the all-new GAC M8, drivers and passengers alike are welcomed by space and elegance. The chrome and crystal elements seen on the outside are also present inside. These can be seen on the dashboard, center console, and the intricate gear selector.

A 14.6-inch multifunctional touchscreen and 12.3" Full LCD instrument cluster greet the front occupants. The touchscreen not only comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but also various settings that can further elevate the driving and riding experience.

Keeping passengers entertained is its 8-speaker audio system, pumping tunes to all three rows of seats. They can also enjoy the AV system that comes standard in both variants.

The main highlight of the M8 is, of course, the back seats. The second-row seats consist of captain chairs with all-power adjustment. From the backrests to the leg rests, it's all about convenience. These seats are also heated and ventilated, and even come with massagers for maximum comfort.

With an interior this large, there's more than enough space in the third row. With soft cushions and a wide range of adjustability, there's no complaints even when seated there. There's also a great deal of space left for the cargo area even with all three rows of seating in place, making the M8 a great road trip partner.

Safety is also one of the top draws of the GAC M8. Regardless of the variant, this MPV comes equipped with advanced driver assist systems. It includes autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, traffic jam assist, and adaptive cruise control that can even adjust accordingly to the posted speed limit. Opt for the GX Master variant and it adds 360-degree view cameras, automatic parking assist, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert with emergency braking, and emergency lane keep.

Powering this luxury liner on wheels is a 2.0-liter turbo gas engine that makes 248ps and 400Nm of torque. That engine gives the M8 more than enough power for confident overtakes and easily merge on the highway. It's then mated to a smooth and slick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission that balances performance and efficiency.

A luxury MPV isn't complete without a great suspension system. For the M8, it uses a finely-tuned MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the back, giving this MPV high levels of comfort without sacrificing handling and safety.

Prices for the 2024 GAC M8 start at P2,998,000 for the GL Master variant. For those who want even more luxury, the higher-spec GX Master carries an SRP of P3,948,000. There will be those who will say something about its price, but given the way it drives and rides, it's worth it.

With its impressive design, advanced tech, and luxurious comfort features, the GAC M8 stands as a formidable contender in the MPV segment. Whether for family trips or executive commutes, the M8 offers an unparalleled driving experience.