When you hear about a car designed for families, you might not expect it to shine in a series of demanding driving tests. But that's exactly what the GAC M6 Pro GL achieved during our recent trip from Manila to Pampanga. We put the MPV through its paces at the R33 Drift Track in San Simon, Pampanga, evaluating it under various conditions while it showcased its safety features, comfort, and overall driving experience.
Maneuvering with the 360-degree camera
Navigating tight spaces can be challenging, but the GAC M6 Pro made it look easy with its 360-degree camera system. This feature provided a comprehensive view around the vehicle, allowing us to confidently maneuver through narrow passages. Small obstacles were easily spotted, making parking and tight turns a breeze. It became evident that the camera's clarity and real-time feedback are essential for urban driving and parking scenarios.
Tackling slippery surfaces
Next, we tested the GAC M6 Pro's traction control system on slippery surfaces. Unlike vehicles without traction control that struggle to find grip, the M6 Pro effortlessly moved forward from a standstill, with one side on a soapy tarp. This test demonstrated the car's ability to handle adverse weather conditions, ensuring a safer drive for all passengers. The traction control system engaged seamlessly, providing stability and confidence even on the slickest roads.
Emergency braking while turning
We also executed abrupt stops while turning to see how the car would react. Thanks to the combination of traction control and ABS, the M6 Pro maintained its intended path without understeering. This capability is crucial for avoiding collisions and maintaining control during sudden maneuvers, making it a reliable choice for families. Modern safety technologies, including traction control and electronic brake-force distribution, played a significant role in ensuring the car remained composed during the test.
Mastering the Moose Test
The ultimate test of agility was the Moose Test, simulating the need to avoid an unexpected obstacle without braking. Originating in Sweden, this test evaluates a vehicle's ability to swiftly change direction. The GAC M6 Pro surprisingly excelled here, demonstrating remarkable stability and control that you wouldn’t expect to find in a family MPV. The 215/50 R18 Michelin Primacy 3ST tires played a big part here as well.
Comfort for long drives
After the tests at the R33 Drift Track, we headed to Piña Restaurant in Barangay Sapang Bato, Pampanga. This drive allowed us to experience the GAC M6 Pro's Adaptive Cruise Control in a rural setting. The system efficiently managed varying traffic speeds, reducing the need for constant pedal adjustments. This feature is invaluable for long drives, providing a more relaxed driving experience.
Long journeys demand comfort, and the GAC M6 Pro delivers. The second row features two captain's chairs with reclining and sliding adjustments, providing ample legroom for all three third-row passengers. The butterfly headrests add an extra touch of comfort, ensuring your head stays in place even if you doze off. The spacious and well-designed interior makes it an ideal choice for family road trips. The ergonomic 2-2-3 seating configuration ensures comfort for all passengers, and the adjustable third-row backrests, ample storage space, and charging ports in all three rows add to the convenience. Fold the third row down and you’ll have up to 1,100 liters of luggage space available. One aspect that stood out was its ability to carry two full-sized suitcases even with the third row up. That’s a feature you don’t often find in MPVs, and one that certainly comes in handy when you have to bring the family’s clothes and other items on your trip.
The drive along NLEX gave us a great opportunity to evaluate how the M6 Pro handled long-distance driving. Unsurprisingly, the M6 Pro is an extremely comfortable place to be, thanks in part to its long 2810mm wheelbase which contributes to its smooth ride quality. Even on uneven surfaces, the car glided effortlessly, minimizing bumps and vibrations. Passengers in all rows enjoyed a comfortable experience, making it clear that the M6 Pro is designed with long-distance travel in mind.
Under the hood, the GAC M6 Pro is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, producing 174 hp and 270 Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, the car delivered ample power even with four passengers on board. Acceleration was smooth and responsive, making overtaking and merging onto highways effortless.
Safety is a top priority for the GAC M6 Pro. The vehicle is equipped with a full suite of Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Lane Departure Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist, High Beam Assist, Integrated Cruise Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition System. These features work together to provide a safer driving experience, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
The GAC M6 Pro's construction also prioritizes safety. With 93% high-tensile steel used in its build, the car offers enhanced protection for all occupants. In the event of a collision, the robust frame helps absorb and distribute impact forces, minimizing injury risks.
The GAC M6 Pro boasts an attractive and inoffensive exterior design. Full LED headlamps and daytime running lights (DRL) ensure excellent visibility, while side turn signal lamps and 18-inch rims add a touch of sophistication.
Inside, the M6 Pro offers a host of premium features that you normally wouldn’t find in this price range. The panoramic sunroof provides an open and airy feel, and the LCD instrument cluster with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display offers intuitive controls. The 8-speaker DTS sound system and leather upholstery enhance the overall driving experience.
Warranty and support
The GAC M6 Pro finds itself in the unique position of competing in two important segments in the automotive industry. Priced at P1,230,000, the base model variant M6 Pro GS can easily go toe-to-toe with compact carriers like the Mitsubishi Xpander and Honda BR-V while offering more space and specs, while the top-of-the-line M6 Pro GL variant goes against larger MPVs like the Toyota Innova, Toyota Zenix, and Hyundai Custin, offering better value for money with its more affordable P1,598,000 price tag.
Purchasing the GAC M6 Pro comes with peace of mind, thanks to its comprehensive after-sales support. The vehicle includes a 5-year, 150,000-kilometer warranty, free first preventive maintenance service (PMS), and one year of free 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
At the end of the day, we were quite surprised at how the GAC M6 Pro didn’t behave like a typical MPV. It excelled in various driving conditions similar to how a crossover would, offering exceptional comfort while keeping driving dynamics fun. Whether you're navigating tight city streets, embarking on long road trips, or exploring rural landscapes with the family, you would do well to add the GAC M6 Pro to your shortlist.