GAC GS8 2024 2.0TGDI Pilot Series 2WD Luxury Vehicle Profile: Best Value Large 7-Seat SUV with 252hp Turbo and 2920mm Wheelbase
1. Conclusion: Three Highlights and Three Caveats
Highlights
- Strong 2.0T and 8AT powertrain: The 2.0TGDI engine produces 185kW (252hp) and 400N·m, paired with an Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission.
- Genuine seven-seat flexibility: A 4,980mm body and 2,920mm wheelbase provide generous first- and second-row space, with a 2+3+2 layout for occasional seven-person travel.
- Comprehensive safety and comfort equipment: The listed specification includes L2 assistance, full-speed adaptive cruise, 360-degree view with transparent chassis, panoramic sunroof, power tailgate, built-in dash cam, and wireless charging.
Caveats
- Fuel consumption is the main running-cost pressure: The official WLTC figure is 8.6L/100km, while the draft cites owner averages around 10.2L/100km.
- 95-octane fuel is required: Higher-grade petrol further raises cost per kilometre compared with rivals that accept 92-octane.
- Third-row and luggage compromises: The third row is best for children or shorter journeys, and cargo space becomes limited when all seven seats are occupied.
2. Model Overview
The GAC GS8 is GAC Motor's flagship large SUV. The second generation brought major upgrades to styling, performance, and cabin technology, while the 2024 Pilot Series refined that formula for buyers seeking seven seats and strong standard equipment.
The body measures 4,980 × 1,950 × 1,780mm with a 2,920mm wheelbase. Its upright grille, split LED headlights, broad body, and full-width rear lighting give it a substantial road presence.
The Pilot Series uses GAC's 2.0TGDI engine with an Aisin 8-speed automatic. MacPherson front and multi-link rear independent suspension, electric steering, and a monocoque body give it a more road-focused character than ladder-frame off-road SUVs.
Watch the GAC GS8 2024 Pilot Series walkthrough.
3. Basic Information
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | GAC GS8 2024 Pilot Series 2.0TGDI 2WD Luxury Connected |
| Class | Large SUV |
| Power type | Petrol |
| Engine | 2.0T 252hp L4, 1991mL, engine code 4B20J1 |
| Maximum power | 185kW (252PS) at 5250rpm |
| Peak torque | 400N·m at 1750-4000rpm |
| Fuel grade | 95-octane petrol |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Suspension | MacPherson front / multi-link rear |
| Dimensions | 4,980 × 1,950 × 1,780mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,920mm |
| Ground clearance | 200mm unladen, official specification cited in the draft |
| Body and seating | 5-door, 7-seat SUV; 2+3+2 layout |
| Kerb / gross weight | 1,920kg / 2,460kg |
| Fuel tank | 65L |
| WLTC fuel consumption | 8.6L/100km |
| Top speed | 210km/h |
| Tyres | 255/50 R20 |
| Warranty | 5 years or 150,000km |
Maintenance and Manufacturer Service
Routine servicing covers engine oil and filters, air and cabin filters, spark plugs, and scheduled transmission-fluid changes. The turbocharged direct-injection engine and high-output powertrain may cost more to maintain than a smaller naturally aspirated model. Local warranty, intervals, parts supply, and service pricing should be confirmed with the authorised distributor.
Selected Market Policy Framework
| Country or region | Policy direction | Main consideration |
|---|---|---|
| China | Purchase tax and trade-in policies | Eligibility varies by policy period, vehicle, and location. |
| European Union | CO2-based taxation | Registration and ownership charges vary by member state and emissions. |
| United States | Federal and state rules | Fees and emissions requirements vary by state. |
| Japan | Eco-vehicle taxation | Tax treatment depends on current emissions and fuel-economy standards. |
| South Korea | Emissions-based charges | Rates vary by vehicle classification and emissions. |
Policy reference: IEA Global EV Policy Explorer. Verify current local rules before purchase.
4. Ownership Costs and Service
Warranty and Servicing
The listed whole-vehicle warranty is 5 years or 150,000km. The original source material estimates total servicing cost to 60,000km at CNY 9,145. Actual pricing, coverage, and service schedules vary by market.
Running-Cost Factors
- Fuel: The official WLTC figure is 8.6L/100km, and 95-octane petrol is required.
- Real-world use: The draft cites an owner average around 10.2L/100km, with heavier consumption in congested traffic.
- Servicing: A direct-injection turbo engine and 8-speed automatic bring more costly consumables than simpler powertrains.
- Insurance and depreciation: Costs depend on vehicle value, repair support, and local demand.
At an illustrative petrol price of USD 1.23 per litre, fuel costs about USD 10.60 per 100km at the official figure and USD 12.50 per 100km at 10.2L/100km. These are estimates, not guaranteed costs.
5. Competitor Comparison
The GS8 is compared with the Changan CS95 2023 PLUS 2.0T 4WD Prestige, Haval H9 2026 2.0T Petrol 4WD Trail, and Exeed VX 2027 2.0T 2WD Starlight Six Seat. The original oversized table has been divided into three focused comparisons.
Powertrain and Chassis
| Item | GAC GS8 | Changan CS95 | Haval H9 | Exeed VX |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0T, 252hp | 2.0T, 233hp | 2.0T, 224hp | 2.0T, 261hp |
| Power / torque | 185kW / 400N·m | 171kW / 390N·m | 165kW / 385N·m | 192kW / 400N·m |
| Fuel grade | 95 octane | 92 octane | 92 octane | 95 octane |
| Transmission | 8-speed AT | 8-speed AT | 8-speed AT | 8-speed automatic |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive | On-demand 4WD | Part-time 4WD | Front-wheel drive |
| Body structure | Monocoque | Monocoque | Ladder frame | Monocoque |
| Rear suspension | Multi-link independent | Multi-link independent | Live axle | Multi-link independent |
Dimensions and Seating
| Item | GAC GS8 | Changan CS95 | Haval H9 | Exeed VX |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (mm) | 4980 × 1950 × 1780 | 4949 × 1940 × 1805 | 5070 × 1976 × 1950 | 5010 × 1940 × 1800 |
| Wheelbase | 2920mm | 2810mm | 2850mm | 2900mm |
| Seat count | 7 | 7 | 5 | 6 |
| Seat layout | 2+3+2 | 2+3+2 | 2+3 | 2+2+2 |
| Kerb weight | 1920kg | 2117kg | 2300kg | 1840kg |
| Fuel tank | 65L | 74L | 80L | 65L |
| Spare wheel | Space-saver | Space-saver | Full-size | Space-saver |
Equipment and Ownership
| Item | GAC GS8 | Changan CS95 | Haval H9 | Exeed VX |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surround view | 360° plus transparent chassis | 360° plus transparent chassis | 360° plus transparent chassis | 360° plus transparent chassis |
| Adaptive cruise | Full-speed | Full-speed | Full-speed | Full-speed |
| Central screen | 14.6-inch | 12.3-inch | 15.6-inch | 15.6-inch |
| Sunroof | Openable panoramic | Openable panoramic | Single | Openable panoramic |
| Front seat heating | Standard | Standard | Not provided | Standard |
| Warranty | 5 years / 150,000km | 3 years / 100,000km | 5 years / 150,000km | 5 years / 100,000km listed |
| 60,000km service estimate | CNY 9,145 | CNY 8,842 | Not provided | Not provided |
Which One Suits Which Buyer?
- GAC GS8: Best suited to road-focused families wanting seven seats, strong performance, a long wheelbase, and a comprehensive equipment list.
- Changan CS95: Adds on-demand four-wheel drive and accepts 92-octane petrol, making it attractive to buyers who want extra traction.
- Haval H9: The ladder frame, part-time four-wheel drive, live rear axle, rear differential lock, and full-size spare give it the clearest off-road focus.
- Exeed VX: Offers the most powerful engine here and a 2+2+2 layout that prioritises second-row comfort.
Comparison data comes from the source material used for the original draft, including OCR from configuration screenshots. Confirm specifications, trim equipment, warranty terms, and market availability before purchase.
6. Expert Test Drive
Pros
- Strong mid-range performance: Peak torque from 1750-4000rpm and the 8-speed automatic provide useful overtaking reserve even with passengers aboard.
- Comfort-focused road manners: Independent rear suspension and a monocoque body help absorb broken surfaces without excessive harshness.
- Generous first- and second-row space: The long wheelbase and adjustable second row suit family road trips.
Areas to Improve
- High fuel consumption: Frequent city driving and high annual mileage can make petrol the largest ownership expense.
- Premium fuel requirement: The need for 95-octane petrol compounds the effect of its consumption.
- Limited third-row comfort: Adults will find the third row best suited to shorter journeys, and luggage room is restricted with all seats raised.
Test Scenarios
- Mixed city and motorway use: Public owner data cited in the draft places real-world combined consumption near 10L/100km, with congestion pushing it higher.
- Seven occupants aboard: The powertrain remains usable when fully loaded, but acceleration and braking feel less effortless, while third-row and cargo compromises become more obvious.
7. Real Owner Reviews
Common Positive Feedback
- Space: Owners frequently praise first- and second-row room, with the third row useful for children or occasional adult passengers.
- Performance: The 2.0T engine is considered responsive enough for overtaking and carrying a full family load.
- Road presence: The upright front end and large body are often cited as key purchase reasons.
Common Criticism
- Fuel use: Owners generally accept that a large 2.0T seven-seat SUV will not be economical in city traffic.
- Infotainment: Some feedback mentions sluggish system response.
- Finish details: Paint thickness and smaller material details are recurring criticisms in the source material.
Owner feedback summarises public review material and should not be treated as a controlled reliability study.
8. References
- Global Petrol Prices: World gasoline prices
- IEA Global EV Policy Explorer
- GAC Motor official model specifications and configuration information
- Aggregated public test and owner-review material from automotive media platforms
