While some Chinese car manufacturers are creating innovative vehicles with distinctive and attractive designs, many continue to take ‘inspiration’ from vehicles in the west. Take the new GAC Trumpchi GS8 S, for example, recently snapped out and about in China.
The design of the GS8 S appears like mix and match of numerous models, chiefly from Korean brands and some hints from the third-gen Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, but is far less refined. For example, whereas Hyundai’s largest SUV, the Palisade, has a nice flowing front fascia with a large grille and sharp split headlights, the new Trumpchi SUV’s front is far more upright, less premium, and altogether less appealing. It really does resemble an SUV from Hyundai or Kia drawn by a child.
Also Read: 2020 Hyundai Palisade Starts At $31,550 – Undercuts The Ford Explorer
The oddities of the vehicle continue at the rear where there are a set of blockish taillights, fake dual tailpipes, and a massive third brake light on the roof.
As reported by China’s Auto163, the smaller GS8 S will be sold throughout China alongside the existing GS8 which has a similar overall design but is made distinct by its tweaked front grille that features horizontal slats as opposed to vertical ones like the GS8 S.
Local media reports that the new GS8 S will hit the market with a single 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 252 hp. By comparison, the Palisade comes outfitted with a 3.8-liter naturally-aspirated V6 engine offering up 291 hp and 262 lb-ft (355 Nm). In addition to its greater grunt, we’re sure the Hyundai’s engine is also much more refined and enjoyable to operate.
For comparison, here’s the Hyundai Palisade
