China’s upscale people-mover, the GAC M8 (and its plug-in hybrid sibling, GAC E9), is shaping up as a serious threat to the Kia Carnival with first-class seating, limo-grade comfort and headline hybrid tech.
GAC M8 Availability in Australia
- Confirmed brand launch: GAC will officially enter Australia with a factory-backed network in October 2025. Among the first models is the E9 plug-in hybrid people mover, which is essentially the electrified version of the M8.
- Model note: The E9 is the PHEV variant of the second-generation M8. Same platform and luxury cabin, but differentiated by powertrain.
Bottom line: Expect the E9 (M8 PHEV) to lead GAC’s Australian people-mover lineup. Final specifications and local pricing are yet to be revealed.
GAC M8 Price
While Australian pricing is still to be announced, here’s a global context:
- Philippines (M8 petrol “Master”): Starts around ₱2.998M.
- China (E9 PHEV): Launched from ¥329,800 up to ¥389,800 depending on trim.
These figures provide benchmarks, but Australian pricing will depend on final specs and market positioning.
Colour Options
- M8 (Petrol/HEV markets): Crystal White, Elegant Black, Temple Gold.
- E9 (PHEV): Seen globally in shades of White and Black, with premium metallic finishes expected.
Australian colour palettes should align closely with international releases.
Features
- Cabin & seating: 7-seat layout with executive second-row captain’s chairs, featuring ventilation, heating, massage, and powered ottomans.
- Infotainment: Large dual screens – 12.3-inch driver display + 14.6-inch centre screen.
- Luxury extras: Wellness-focused “Spa Mode”, panoramic roof, and premium ambient lighting.
- Safety & ADAS: Multiple airbags, 360° parking camera, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and advanced collision avoidance systems.
- Build & platform: Built on GAC’s GPMA architecture with high-strength body design.
Fuel Economy & Powertrains
GAC E9 (M8 PHEV)
- Combined system output: ~274–278 kW / ~630 Nm.
- Battery & EV range: ~25.6 kWh pack; 106 km WLTC EV-only range.
- Fuel use: 6.05 L/100 km (WLTC combined with charging).
GAC M8 (ICE/HEV)
- 2.0T petrol: 185 kW / 400 Nm with 8-speed auto.
- HEV: ~174 kW / 391 Nm with e-CVT.
Kia Carnival HEV (Australia)
- 1.6T hybrid: 180 kW / 366 Nm.
- Fuel use: 5.8 L/100 km (ADR combined).
Dimensions & Practicality
- GAC M8/E9: 5212 mm (L) / 1893 mm (W) / 1823 mm (H), wheelbase 3070 mm.
- Kia Carnival HEV: 5155 mm (L) / 1995 mm (W) / 1785 mm (H), wheelbase 3090 mm.
Luggage space:
- GAC M8: ~1586 L (reported, seats folded).
- Kia Carnival: 627 L (8-seat config), up to 2827 L (5-seat).
Detailed Comparison with Kia Carnival
| Item | GAC M8 / E9 (PHEV) | Kia Carnival HEV (Australia) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Launching Oct 2025 (E9 confirmed) | On sale now |
| Powertrain | 2.0T PHEV, ~278 kW / 630 Nm | 1.6T HEV, 180 kW / 366 Nm |
| Battery / EV range | 25.6 kWh, ~106 km EV | Hybrid only, no EV range |
| Fuel economy | 6.05 L/100 km (WLTC) | 5.8 L/100 km (ADR) |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 5212 / 1893 / 1823 mm | 5155 / 1995 / 1785 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3070 mm | 3090 mm |
| Seating | 7 (luxury captain’s chairs) | 8 seats |
| Infotainment | 12.3″ + 14.6″ | 12.3″ + 12.3″ |
| Luxury extras | Massage “Spa Mode”, wellness focus | Spacious practicality |
| Cargo | ~1586 L (seats folded) | 627–2827 L |
| Strengths | EV range, luxury second row | Space, dealer support |
| Weaknesses | Price/spec in AU not yet known | No EV-only option |
Final Thoughts
The GAC M8 / E9 is positioning itself as a luxury lounge on wheels, with features designed to rival and even surpass the Kia Carnival in some areas. Its EV-only range, spa-like comfort, and premium design could attract buyers who want more than just space — they want indulgence.
The Kia Carnival, however, remains unmatched in sheer practicality, eight-seat flexibility, and dealer support in Australia.
Together, they set up one of the most interesting family van battles the Australian market has seen in years.
