The 2022 GAC GS8 rides on the brand’s new GPMA-L platform which is designed with four characteristics in mind: comfort, luxury, space, and performance. As such, the unibody SUV now features a new multi-link rear suspension system.

The base GS8 packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder under the hood good for 252 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. This front-drive version swaps its 6-speed automatic for a new 8-speed automatic from Aisin, however. The big news though is the adoption of the Toyota Hybrid System or THS. The THS mates a GAC-made 190-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that drives the front axle with a 54-horsepower electric motor that drives the rear axle.

Measuring in at 4,980 mm in length, 1,950 mm in width, and 1,780 mm in height, the 2022 GS8 has a wheelbase of 2,920 mm. The boxy lines are largely evolutionary, but it’s deliberate as to keep its stately appearance. Upfront, it integrates the new “Dragon Scale Wing” grille along with complex LED lighting which does an intricate dance when turned on. The same treatment is done at the back with the “Red Diamond” taillight.

Inside, the GS8 looks pretty impressive with its 12.25-inch digital gauge cluster, a 14.6-inch center touchscreen (it looks Mercedes-Benz-like, actually), quilted leather seats, and a premium sound system by Alpine. There are also three seating configurations on offer—a five, a seven, and a six-seater with second-row Captain’s Seats.

Still no word on when GAC will start offering the all-new GS8 for export markets, but they did confirm that the flagship SUV is made for export increasing the chances of seeing it in Philippines probably in the next year or so.