GAC Emzoom vs Toyota CH-R: The battle of tech vs trust

The compact SUV market has exploded in popularity over the last few years, and rightly so. You get the higher road presence of an SUV without the bulk, all in city-friendly packaging. Two competitors in this segment — one a flashy newcomer, the other a hybrid veteran — are going head-to-head: the GAC GS3 Emzoom and the Toyota CH-R.
If you're shopping in the sub-Tk40 lakh range, here's what you need to know.

Let's be real, styling is a big deal when it comes to choosing a crossover. The GAC GS3 Emzoom enters the ring with a futuristic "flying-mecha" front bumper, creased body lines. Add in hidden rear door handles and a panoramic sunroof, and it's something out of a science fiction film.

Step inside, and you're greeted with premium-looking soft-touch materials in a dark blue finish, blue-accented AC vents, ambient lighting, and twin digital displays. It's a very "2025" interior.

While the GS3 offers a roomy tech-savvy interior and a panoramic roof, the CH-R feels dated and cramped, particularly in the rear with its tiny windows. PHOTO: Nafirul Haq

While the GS3 offers a roomy tech-savvy interior and a panoramic roof, the CH-R feels dated and cramped, particularly in the rear with its tiny windows. PHOTO: Akif Hamid

The Toyota CH-R, meanwhile, has had its style tweaked since 2016. Its coupe posture, 3D projectors, LED taillights, and black roof continue to turn heads. But here, it gets stale. The dashboard is angular and full of diamond motifs, and while quirky, it feels cramped, especially in the back where tiny windows and no sunroof make some passengers feel a little claustrophobic.

GS3 is definitely more tech-heavy. It comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android connectivity, along with Harmony OS as the operating system. The dual screens, ambient lighting, and overall styling all have a feel that is more segment-up.

Meanwhile, the CH-R — especially the Japanese variants that land in Bangladesh — lacks CarPlay or Android Auto. You're mostly stuck with Bluetooth pairing and a basic media system. The touchscreen is functional, but the interface and hardware feel dated next to the GS3.

Sure, the build quality of the CH-R is typically Toyota — solid and reliable. But for user experience and that sorta wow, the GS3 is ahead.

While the GS3 offers a roomy tech-savvy interior and a panoramic roof, the CH-R feels dated and cramped, particularly in the rear with its tiny windows. PHOTO: Nafirul Haq

Rear passengers in the GS3 Emzoom will enjoy ample leg space and headroom due to a flat floor design and large windows. It also includes rear air-conditioning vents– a necessity in Dhaka's climate.

The CH-R is not rear-passenger friendly, however. While seat comfort is decent, the narrow windows, beefy pillars, and absence of sunroof in most models make the back cabin look dark and confining. If you've got taller riders or someone who gets claustrophobic, this will be a deal-breaker.

So, how do these two actually drive?

The GAC GS3 Emzoom offers a 1500cc turbocharged engine, delivering 174 hp and 270 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. It feels lively in traffic and is smooth over potholes and speed bumps — a big plus for Dhaka's roads. There's a bit of turbo lag when the pedal is floored. Once it kicks in, however, the power delivery is satisfying. Steering is light (can be changed in Driving mode settings) but responsive, and the handling is confidence-inspiring.

On the flip side, the Toyota CH-R is powered by a 1800cc hybrid system borrowed from the Toyota Prius. While it makes about 138 bhp and 208 Nm combined, the electric motor does make it quicker off the line. However, the acceleration slows down once the engine kicks in. Overall, it's smooth, quiet, and incredibly efficient — expect anywhere from 8–12 km/l in typical city driving.

The CH-R’s hybrid powertrain is quick and efficient but the 1800cc engine leads to double the AIT of the GS3. PHOTO: Akif Hamid

Where the CH-R wins is in ride comfort and hybrid reliability. The electric motor makes city stop-and-go driving effortless. But if you're craving speed or sportiness, the GS3 feels noticeably more energetic.

If you're the kind of driver who values tech, power, bold design, and passenger space, the GAC GS3 Emzoom, at Tk38 lakh, is easily one of the most exciting crossovers in the budget. It's fresh, futuristic, and fun to drive. It also requires half the annual income tax (Tk25,000) compared to the CH-R (Tk50,000).

But if you're someone who puts a premium on fuel savings, hybrid smoothness, and long-term reliability, the Toyota CH-R, at around Tk35 lakh, remains a solid, proven choice — especially for those who drive long distances or want to keep running costs low.

Specification:

GAC GS3 EMZOOM

ENGINE : 1500cc Turbocharged 4-cylinder

TRANSMISSION : 7-speed DCT

POWER : 174 hp

TORQUE: 270 Nm

PRICE: Tk38 lakh

Toyota CHR 
ENGINE: 1800cc 2ZR-FXE

TRANSMISSION: CVT

POWER: 138 bhp

TORQUE: 207 Nm

PRICE: Tk35 Lakh (Approx)