GAC A79 compact SUV debuts in 3D rendered images

Automaker GAC has shared 3D illustrations previewing its upcoming small crossover SUV so far known as the AA79. Earlier patent filings reveal that the car is coming to replace the GS3 model, which has been in production for five years now (see video).

The company refrains from calling it the next-gen GS3, but it definitely looks the part. The body has been redesigned with lots of sharp edges and is now running on a platform known as GPMA (Global Platform Modular Architecture). The dimensions (L/W/H) are as 4,410 x 1,850 x 1,600 mm with 2,650 mm between the axles. Compared to the old GS3, it is 60 mm longer, 25 mm wider and 60 mm less tall with 90 mm of added wheelbase.

The live photos published by the China Ministry of Industry earlier reveal two exterior trim options: standard and sport. The latter has a body kit and tailpipes grouped in the middle. According to the patents, the 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder under the hood gains 8 horsepower compared to the old version, for a total of 177 PS (175 hp / 130 kW). The transmission is automatic.

We expect a premiere in the coming days or weeks at most.