The modern automobile market is oversaturated with offers, but it is Chinese brands that are now dictating new rules of the game. Model known in Russia as Jiak Gypso 5 (GAC GS5), is a vivid example of how quickly the Chinese auto industry is developing. This mid-size crossover attracts attention not only with its aggressive design, but also with rich equipment that was previously available only in the premium segment.
When you first meet GAC GS5 The high-quality workmanship of the exterior details is striking. GAC Group engineers tried to create an image that will be relevant for many years, avoiding unnecessary shock value. However, appearance is only the tip of the iceberg, because the main emphasis was placed on technical features and passenger comfort.
In this material we will analyze in detail all aspects of operating this car. You will learn about real fuel consumption figures, transmission features and the nuances of the multimedia system. Understanding these details will help you make an informed purchasing decision.
Exterior design and overall dimensions
The exterior of the crossover is made in the GAC corporate style, called “Dynamic Force”. The front part of the body is dominated by a massive radiator grille, which visually connects the optics into a single composition. The lighting here is entirely LED, which provides excellent illumination of the track at night.
The dimensions of the car allow you to feel confident both in the city and on a country highway. The length of the body is 4695 mm, width - 1920 mm, and height - 1720 mm. The 2810 mm wheelbase guarantees a spacious second row of seats, a rarity among competitors in this class.
The body profile with its expressive wheel arches deserves special attention. Ground clearance is 195 mm, which is an excellent indicator for urban conditions and light off-road conditions. This height allows you to safely park near high curbs or overcome washed-out dirt areas.
⚠️ Attention: Despite the impressive ground clearance, the front bumper has a low plastic apron. When parking in deep snowdrifts or overcoming high obstacles, there is a risk of damaging decorative elements.
The rear of the car looks balanced thanks to a wide spoiler and integrated exhaust pipes. The designers successfully avoided the “heavy stern” effect, making the line transitions smooth and aerodynamic. This has a positive effect on interior noise when driving at high speeds.
Interior, materials and ergonomics
Salon Jiak Gypso 5 greets the driver with a modern and laconic design. The finishing is dominated by soft plastics, pleasant-to-touch materials and wood or metal inserts, depending on the configuration. The assembly is done with high quality: there are no squeaks even after long-term use on uneven roads.
The center console is oriented towards the driver. There is a large touch panel of the multimedia system with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Below are the physical climate control buttons, which is a huge plus as it allows you to control the temperature without taking your eyes off the road.
The ergonomics of the driver's seat are thought out to the smallest detail. The steering wheel has a comfortable shape and many adjustments. The seats are electrically adjustable, heated and, in top versions, ventilated. There is plenty of headroom even for tall passengers.
The 520-litre luggage compartment offers excellent luggage capacity. The floor can be adjusted in height, and the backs of the rear sofa fold into a flat area. This makes the car a universal tool for family travel or transporting large cargo.
Technical characteristics and engines
The line of power units for the Russian market is usually represented by a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine develops a power of about 150 horsepower and a torque of 235 Nm. The engine complies with Euro-5 environmental standards, which is important for operation in large cities.
The unit is paired with a 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission or CVT, depending on the year of manufacture and modification. The torque converter box has proven itself to be a reliable and predictable unit, although it is not distinguished by sporty shifting agility.
The dynamic performance of the car can be described as sufficient for a quiet ride. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 11-12 seconds. There is enough power reserve for overtaking on the highway, but you should plan the maneuver in advance, especially if the car is fully loaded.
Use the "Sport" mode on the transmission selector when overtaking on the highway. This delays gearshifts at higher rpm, providing sharper throttle response.
Fuel consumption is one of the key issues for potential buyers. In the combined cycle, the engine consumes about 8-9 liters per 100 km. In city mode with frequent traffic jams, this figure can increase to 11-12 liters, which is a standard value for crossovers in this class.
Chassis and handling
Suspension design GAC GS5 includes MacPherson struts at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provides an excellent balance between comfort and handling. The car confidently maintains a straight trajectory at high speeds and does not require constant steering.
The shock absorber settings are rather soft, which is ideal for Russian roads with their unevenness and potholes. Large asphalt joints and speed bumps are handled silently, without transmitting strong impacts to the body. However, in sharp turns there may be noticeable roll.
The steering is equipped with electric power steering. It is light enough in urban environments, making it easy to maneuver and park. There is feedback on the steering wheel, but it is somewhat artificial, which is typical for most modern crossovers.
☑️ Checking the chassis when buying a used one
The braking system consists of disc mechanisms on all wheels. Braking efficiency is high, the pedal has a clear progressive characteristic. The ABS and ESP systems work correctly and unobtrusively, interfering with the control process only in critical situations.
Multimedia and security systems
The infotainment complex is based on an operating system with an intuitive interface. The screen responds to touches quickly, without delay. The menu includes car settings, navigation, media player and Bluetooth phone connections.
The range of active safety systems includes blind spot monitoring, hill start assist and a tire pressure monitoring system. The rear view camera has high resolution and dynamic markings, which greatly simplifies parking in tight spaces.
The acoustic system, as a rule, has 6-8 speakers. The sound is clear, with pronounced mid-frequencies, however, demanding music lovers may require additional equalizer adjustments or replacement of the standard acoustics.
| System | Function | Status |
|---|---|---|
| ESP | Stability control | Always active |
| Hill Start Assist | Help on the rise | Automatically |
| TPMS | Tire pressure monitoring | Real time |
| Parking Sensors | Parktronics | Front and back |
Multimedia Secrets
A hidden engineering menu allows you to calibrate the touch screen and configure the sound signals of the parking sensors. Login is carried out through the service code in diagnostic mode.
Cost of Ownership and Maintenance
Purchase Jiak Gypso 5 often due to an attractive price-quality ratio. The initial cost of the car is lower than that of famous competitors from Japan or Europe with a similar set of options. This makes the model accessible to a wide range of buyers.
Planned maintenance costs are at an average level. The regulation provides for changing oil and filters every 10,000 km or once a year. Parts for routine maintenance are available, although body parts may take longer to order due to logistics.
Liquidity in the secondary market is still being formed. Chinese cars lose value faster than “classics” like Toyota or Honda, but for the GS5 this figure is gradually improving due to the growing popularity of the brand and proven reliability.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a used copy, be sure to check the service history. The absence of entries in the service book may indicate a violation of regulations, which is critical for a turbocharged engine.
Insurance premiums (MTPL and CASCO) are calculated at standard rates for a given power class and vehicle cost. Maintainability is high, many components are unified with other models of the GAC group.
Comparison with competitors
In its segment GAC GS5 competes with models such as Haval F7, Chery Tiggo 7 Pro and Geely Coolray. Compared to them, Jiak Gypso 5 wins in interior dimensions and trunk volume. However, the design may seem more conservative to some buyers.
When compared with Korean crossovers (Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos), the Chinese competitor offers more hardware for the same money. Koreans benefit from brand recognition and a developed network of service centers in remote regions.
European analogues in this price range will be significantly older or smaller in class. Therefore, for those who want a new car with a guarantee and modern equipment, the choice is actually narrowed to the Chinese segment.
The GAC GS5 is the choice of a pragmatist who wants to get maximum space and equipment for a reasonable budget, sacrificing only nameplate recognition.
The final verdict depends on the buyer's priorities. If you're looking for a spacious family car for the city and travel with adequate fuel consumption, then this model is definitely worth a test drive.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the real fuel consumption of the GAC GS5 in the city?
In dense city traffic with frequent stops at traffic lights, consumption is 10.5–12 liters per 100 km. On the highway at a speed of 110 km/h it is possible to keep within 7.5–8 liters.
Does Jiak Gypso 5 have all-wheel drive?
For most markets, including Russia, the model comes exclusively with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive modifications exist, but their supply is limited and depends on the specific year of manufacture.
How reliable is the CVT or automatic transmission on this crossover?
The classic 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission is considered very reliable with timely oil changes (every 60 thousand km). CVTs also show good results, but require more careful operation without sudden starts.
Does Multimedia support installation of third party applications?
The standard system has a closed loop, but many users successfully install applications via a smartphone connection (Android Auto) or by flashing the head unit from specialized services.