Set to become the entry-point of the Emzoom range once offset of the special run Comfort Collection ends, the Nova represents a R20 000 credit over the midrange Executive Collection with the same R359 900 sticker price as the Comfort. The Nova’s main difference from the Executive involves a specification sheet rejig to keep costs down.
Not included, though, is a different powertrain, as the combination of the 1.5 T-GDI engine and dual-clutch gearbox used on the rest of the Emzoom range has been retained.
Different styling cues
Officially called GAC GS3 Emzoom Nova, the model has been subtly tweaked to differentiate itself from the rest of the range. This includes a redesigned model specific black grille, black 17-inch alloy wheels and a new colour option called Fast Red. No changes to the rear facia have been made.
Unsurprisingly, most of the revisions have taken place inside, where features such as the automatic air conditioning, the 7-inch digital instrument cluster and front parking sensors have all been dropped.
Starting with the Nova, though, all Emzoom derivatives now come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the latter previously augmented by an external Android device available as an option.
Infotainment screen stays
The inclusion of the new connectivity arrangement means the Nova retains the 10,25-inch infotainment system that comes standard on the entire Emzoom line-up. However, the 7-inch digital instrument cluster makes way for a 3,5-inch TFT display recessed between an analogue speedometer and tachometer.
Kept are the LED headlights and fog lamps, the remote engine start, electric windows and mirrors, pop-out door handles, multifunction steering wheel and rear parking sensors.
Also standard is keyless entry, push-button start, cruise control, two-tone black-and-blue imitation leather upholstery, dual front airbags, hill-start assist and electronic stability programme.
Familiar powertrain
GAC, which stands for Guangzhou Automobile Group, has stuck with its in-house developed 1,5-litre turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 130kW of power and 270Nm of torque. Feeding this to the front wheels falls to the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
In addition to its powertrain, the Emzoom Nova also keeps the drive mode selector with three settings: Eco, Normal and Sport.
We enjoyed the car’s grippy and well weighted steering wheel, the relatively easy infotainment display, and improvement in rear headroom now that a panoramic sunroof is no longer included. Not found wanting either is seat comfort and support.
Decent performance
Set to Comfort mode, the engine feels initially sluggish and the response delayed as a result of the typical Chinese vehicle throttle calibration mismatch between the accelerator, engine and transmission.
Once over this, the engine pulls strongly while being paired to a transmission that is equally smooth when out of the low-end dead spot.
Switching to Sport mode comes with an element of caution as not taking due care could lead to wheelspin as a result of the out-of-sync accelerator mapping. Unsurprisingly, the Nova well feels spritely in its ‘fastest’ setting.
What’s the verdict?
Having been on somewhat of a roller coaster after cutting the price tag of the Emzoom between R50 000 and R80 000 in January last year amid criticism of it being too expensive, GAC’s latest reduction with the arrival of the Nova can be seen as carrying more merit.
Feeling more premium than what its price suggests, the Nova can now be considered a real threat not only to equivalent legacy brand offerings, but certain offerings from its countrymen as well.
Vehicle facts
- Price: R359 900
- Engine: 1,5-litre turbo petrol
- Transmission: 7-Speed DCT
- Power: 130kW
- Torque: 270Nm
- Fuel consumption (claimed): 6,2litre/100km
- Licensing mass: 1 370kg
- Towing capacity: 700kg
