GAC has shared 3D illustrations previewing its upcoming small crossover SUV so far known as the AA79. Earlier patent filings reveal that the car is coming to replace the GS3 model, which has been in production for five years now.
The company refrains from calling it the
next-gen GS3, but it definitely looks the part. The body has been redesigned
with lots of sharp edges and is now running on a platform known as GPMA (Global
Platform Modular Architecture). The dimensions (L/W/H) are as 4,410 x 1,850 x
1,600 mm with 2,650 mm between the axles. Compared to the old GS3, it is 60 mm
longer, 25 mm wider and 60 mm less tall with 90 mm of added wheelbase.
The live photos published by the China
Ministry of Industry earlier reveal two exterior trim options: standard and
sport. The latter has a body kit and tailpipes grouped in the middle. According
to the patents, the 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder under the hood gains 8
horsepower compared to the old version, for a total of 177 PS. The transmission is automatic.
We expect a premiere in the coming days or
weeks at most.
