The GAC M8 PHEV brings an unusual combination to the Australian new-car market: seven-seat people-mover practicality, luxury-oriented passenger accommodation and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Measuring 5212 mm long with a 3070 mm wheelbase, it is a substantial vehicle designed around cabin space. The exterior is dominated by a large grille and upright proportions, while dual power-sliding doors make access easier in car parks and family loading zones.
Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine working with an electric drive system and a 25.57 kWh battery. Australian specifications quote combined system outputs of 274 kW and 630 Nm, with a two-speed dedicated hybrid transmission and front-wheel drive. GAC quotes 106 km of electric driving range under the WLTC standard and a combined driving range exceeding 1000 km, giving owners the flexibility to complete many shorter trips on stored electricity while retaining petrol convenience for interstate travel.
Charging flexibility is another key advantage. The M8 can accept AC charging and also supports DC charging, an uncommon feature among plug-in hybrids. Australian launch information quotes around 3.5 hours for AC charging using a 6.6 kW supply and about 30 minutes for a 0-80 per cent DC charge under suitable conditions. This makes the M8 easier to use as an electric-first daily vehicle when owners have regular access to charging.
The cabin is the model's main attraction. The M8 has three seating rows and focuses heavily on second-row comfort, with captain-style seating and increasingly luxurious equipment on higher grades. Australian equipment includes powered sliding doors, a powered tailgate, multi-zone climate control, digital instruments, smartphone integration, wireless charging and numerous USB connections. Luxury versions add features such as enhanced second-row seat adjustment, massage, heating and ventilation, plus additional cabin convenience equipment.
Cargo space ranges from about 280 litres with all seating rows available to as much as 1500 litres depending on seat configuration. That makes the M8 useful for family travel, airport work and long-distance touring, although its overall length and width mean it needs more parking space than a conventional SUV. Ride comfort is a priority, supported by MacPherson-strut front and multi-link rear suspension with adaptive damping technology.
Australian buyers should weigh the M8's extensive equipment and PHEV capability against its size, weight and relatively new local brand presence. It had not received an ANCAP rating in launch coverage, and the boot behind the third row is modest for such a large vehicle. Even so, its combination of electric commuting ability, long total range and luxury passenger focus gives it a clear point of difference from conventional petrol, diesel and non-plug-in hybrid people movers.