SPEC SHOWDOWN: GAC Empow GB vs. MG GT Alpha - A fair fight?

More sporty sedans are making their way into the Philippines, set to challenge established players in the market, such as the Honda Civic.

The newest sedans are the MG GT (Specs | News) and the GAC Empow, both seeking to take a piece out of the market segment. They come with a wide array of features and turbocharged engines to bring performance to the segment.

We will compare the mid-level GAC Empow GB versus the base model MG GT Alpha to see which will come out on top.

Also Read: FULL REVIEW: 2023 GAC Empow GB DCT -- A true Honda Civic rival!

Exterior

Sporty is the name of the game. Both sedans come with sleek LED headlights and large grilles. GAC and MG have taken on the fastback design and applied it to the Empow and GT. Just like the front, both vehicles also have a set of LED taillights. 

Also Read: FULL REVIEW: 2023 MG GT Alpha -- What a revelation!

Regarding size, the GAC Empow is the larger of the two sedans as it measures 4,700 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, and 1,432 mm in height. The MG GT, on the other hand, measures 4,675 mm in length, 1,842 mm in width, and 1,473 mm in height.

While the Empow is longer and broader, it is shorter in height. However, I would like to point out that the GAC sedan has a longer wheelbase, which means it has more room between axles for a more spacious cabin. For this category, the GAC Empow has the advantage. 

Interior

The interiors of both vehicles take two distinctive design approaches. The GAC Empow has a minimalistic cabin with a sloping dashboard dominated by two large screens and horizontal vents. The Empow also has a large center console with plenty of storage space.

Meanwhile, the MG GT has a more traditional dashboard layout with a cowl on the angular digital instrument cluster for a sporty look.

Unlike its GAC counterpart, the GT has no floating center console. The GAC sedan has an advantage in terms of storage space inside the cabin.

The seating material for both sedans is leather, but the seats of the GAC are more comfortable for both the front and the rear. 

Tech

Regarding technology, both vehicles have 10.25-inch infotainment systems. However, the GAC only has access to Apple Carplay, not Android Auto. The MG GT Alpha, on the other hand, has access to both phone connectivity features. 

It is important to remember that both vehicles come with digital gauge clusters, the displays of which can be changed depending on the drive mode that they are in. 

For this category, we will give the win to the MG GT as it comes with more functional features. Not having Android Auto can be a deal breaker for some, as many Filipinos use these devices. 

Power

Under the hood, both sedans have a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine, but the GAC Empow has a standard turbocharger across its range for extra power.  The GAC sedan produces 168 PS and 270 Nm, while the MG GT makes 114 PS and 140 Nm of torque. The numbers don’t lie, and the Empow, whichever of the three variants it has in our market, is the more powerful of the two vehicles.

However, if we were to compare the Empow to the top-spec MG GT Sport, both sedans would be on a more even playing field as both would have a turbocharger. 

The Empow has a 7-speed wet dual-clutch gearbox for transmissions, while the MG GT Alpha has a CVT. The MG is geared towards fuel economy, while the Empow goes for a sportier drive thanks to its DCT.

Speaking of the DCT of the Empow, it delivers quick and smooth shifts and puts power down to the ground well. Its only downside would be in traffic, where the gearbox needs to be revved a bit for it to lock and get you moving. 

So, for this category, the GAC Empow has a clear win. 

Price and safety

There is a stark difference between the GAC Empow and the MG GT. The mid-spec GAC sedan in its GB trim is priced at ₱1,305,000. Meanwhile, the entry-level MG sedan is priced at ₱1,015,888.

The pricing indicates that the Empow is the more expensive of the two, with a ₱290,000 difference. However, you get more power and features for that extra amount you are paying for the GAC. Remember that the Empow has access to advanced driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control and emergency braking, to name a few.

But the MG comes with a 360-degree camera and regular cruise control. Both sedans also get multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, and reverse cameras. 

Verdict

For this comparison, the GAC Empow GB is the better of the two sedans despite being ₱290,000 more expensive. You get more power and more features. We understand that ₱290,000  is a lot of money, so if you want an MG, we recommend going for the Sport variant instead, as it brings more power to the table.