Gargash Motors Launches 2026 GAC GS8 Hybrid and Traveler at Dubai Autodrome Experience
Gargash Motors, one of the UAE's most prominent automotive distributors, hosted an exclusive media and influencer event to unveil the highly anticipated 2026 GAC GS8 Hybrid and Traveler editions. The showcase brought to life the model's refined power, intelligent features, and uncompromising comfort in an immersive on and off road experience at the Dubai Autodrome.
Set against the dynamic backdrop of one of the region's premier driving venues, the event gave guests the opportunity to explore the GS8's versatility across contrasting terrains. The day began with an off-road session, where the all-new GS8 Traveller edition tackled a purpose-built course with ease, showcasing its rugged engineering and all-terrain capability. This was followed by an on-track performance test of the Petrol and Hybrid editions, where attendees experienced firsthand the SUV's precise handling, responsive acceleration, and advanced driver-assist technologies.
The 2026 GS8 introduces three distinctive trims—Petrol, Hybrid, and Traveller—each crafted to meet the evolving lifestyles of today's drivers. The Petrol and Hybrid models debut with a refreshed exterior featuring an extended grille and 20-inch alloy wheels. The Traveller edition, designed for adventure, distinguishes itself with bold off-road styling, a chrome-accented grille, and a functional rear utility box.
Under the hood, the Petrol and Traveller variants are powered by a 2.0TGDI engine delivering 248 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. The Hybrid model features GAC Motor's next-generation 2.0TM Mega Wave THS System, delivering the same performance output while offering exceptional fuel efficiency. Multiple drive modes—including ECO, Comfort, Sport, and Off-Road—ensure optimized performance across varied terrain with intelligent adaptability.
Inside, the GS8 offers a spacious and technology-rich seven-seat cabin, crafted for refined comfort. Premium features include tri-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front seats with memory and massage functions (in the Hybrid edition), and an integrated fragrance system with ambient lighting—elements typically reserved for luxury flagship SUVs. Safety remains a top priority, with a full airbag system and advanced ESP technology for enhanced peace of mind.
Technology takes center stage with a 14.6-inch HD touchscreen offering seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, supported by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. An Alpine premium sound system and wireless charging pad cater to the connectivity and entertainment needs of the modern driver.
The 2026 GS8 range offers unmatched value within the premium SUV segment. The Traveller edition is priced from AED 139,900, the Petrol variant from AED 149,900, and the Hybrid from AED 169,900. Each model is backed by a comprehensive 10-year warranty and is available in a range of striking exterior colours—Black, White, Dark Green, Silver, and Grey—complemented by interior options in Camel, White, or Black.
Morgan Sunderland, General Manager of Gargash Motors GAC, commented: With the launch of the new 2026 GS8, we are proud to introduce, for the first time, three distinct variants—each crafted to deliver luxury and performance tailored to different lifestyles. The Traveller is designed for adventure seekers who demand capability without compromising on comfort. The Hybrid combines intelligent innovation with exceptional fuel efficiency and sustainability for the forward-thinking driver. And the petrol variant offers refined power and everyday versatility. This immersive experience was created to showcase the GS8's full potential across urban roads, highways, and rugged terrains—bringing to life the spirit of exploration and elevated driving at the heart of the GAC Motor brand.
Mark Zhang, General Manager of GAC Motor International Middle East added, The Middle East remains a strategic market for GAC Motor, and the launch of the new GS8 underscores our commitment to delivering premium SUVs that align with the region's evolving lifestyle and mobility needs. The GS8 blends bold design with intelligent features and practical versatility, making it a strong fit for drivers across the UAE.
News Source: Buz Marketing Agency
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sharjah 24
8 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
Gross banks' assets up by 1.9% to AED4,719.4 bn. at end of March
The increase was due to AED5.1 billion growth in currency in circulation outside banks, overriding the AED1.4 billion decrease in monetary deposits. The money supply aggregate M2 increased by 3.3%, increasing from AED 2,360.3 billion at the end of February 2025 to AED2,437.7 billion at the end of March 2025. M2 increased because of an elevated M1, and AED73.8 billion increase in Quasi-Monetary Deposits. The money supply aggregate M3 also increased by 2.9%, from AED2,811.7 billion at the end of February 2025 to AED2,893.7 billion at the end of March 2025. M3 increased due to the growth in M2, and AED4.5 billion increase in government deposits. The monetary base increased by 2.0%, from AED816.6 billion at the end of February 2025 to AED833.1 billion at the end of March 2025. The growth in the monetary base was driven by increases in currency issued by 4.1% and in reserve account by 62.0%, overriding the decrease in banks & OFCs' current accounts & overnight deposits of banks at CBUAE by 64.2% and in monetary bills & Islamic certificates of deposit by 6.3%. Gross banks' assets, including bankers' acceptances, increased by 1.9% from AED4,632.2 billion at the end of February 2025 to AED4,719.4 billion at the end of March 2025. Gross credit increased by 1.6% from AED2,204.3 billion at the end of February 2025 to AED2,240.0 billion at the end of March 2025. Gross credit increased due the combined growth in domestic credit by AED19.5 billion and foreign credit by AED16.2 billion. The growth in domestic credit was due to increases in credit to the; public sector (government-related entities) by 0.2%, private sector by 1.4% and non-banking financial institutions by 1.9%, while credit to the government sector decreased by 0.3%. Banks' deposits increased by 2.3%, from AED2,871.5 billion at the end of February 2025 to AED2,936.4 billion at the end of March 2025. The increase in bank deposits was driven by the shared growth in resident deposits by 2.4%, settling at AED2,687.8 billion and in non- resident deposits by 0.4%, reaching AED248.6 billion. Within the resident deposits; government-related entities deposits increased by 4.3%, private sector deposits increased by 3.1% and non-banking financial institutions deposits increased by 5.1%, while deposits to the government sector decreased by 2.3%, by the end of March 2025.
Arabian Post
13 hours ago
- Arabian Post
Aldar Achieves AED 3.5 Billion in First‑Week Fahid Island Sales
Aldar has secured over AED 3.5 billion in sales during the initial launch week of its Fahid Beach Residences and The Beach House on Fahid Island, underscoring strong demand for the developer's new coastal wellness vision. Sales encompass a mix of 1- to 4‑bedroom apartments, townhouses and penthouses, with prices starting from around AED 3 million for residential units, and represent a pivotal milestone for the island's debut as Abu Dhabi's first wellness‑focused coastal destination. The weekend launch saw committed buyers who value coastal living, wellness‑driven design, and access to a super‑premium British curriculum, with Kings College School Wimbledon integrated within the broader masterplan. Expatriate residents and overseas investors accounted for 67 percent of total sales. The top nationalities included people from the UAE, Russia, the UK and China—a testament to Fahid Island's growing international credibility as a lifestyle investment hub. Aldar's CEO, Jonathan Emery, noted that a significant share of buyers are first‑time customers of Aldar, with a marked representation of younger demographics; 42 percent are under the age of 45. ADVERTISEMENT Fahid Island spans a prime location between Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, featuring an 11 km coastline set within pristine mangrove forests. The development is backed by a gross development value exceeding AED 40 billion and is being positioned as the world's first 'Fitwel‑certified island'. Designed to prioritise wellness, it includes amenities such as 24‑hour gyms, luxury spas, social kitchens, pet spas, and direct waterfront access. Analysts view the strong launch sales as reflective of Abu Dhabi's upward trend in real estate investment. June is shaping up as one of the capital's most active months, fuelled by Fahid Island's launch and concurrent high‑end projects such as the Bulgari branded residences. The performance on Fahid Island suggests a shift: younger, wellness‑oriented buyers are engaging with luxury markets, a departure from the traditionally older investor base. Closer examination reveals further trends: 67 percent of buyers are new to Aldar's portfolio, indicating the island's appeal to a fresh and diverse audience. The project's proximity—five minutes from Yas Island, 15 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport and Saadiyat—is a key draw, alongside the island's positioning as a lifestyle destination offering a blend of culture, community and environmental immersion. Fahid Island's commitment to sustainability, wellness and education adds to its allure. The British curriculum school, part of Aldar's integrated planning, caters to global families intent on combining luxurious living with holistic wellbeing. Meanwhile, its Fitwel designation reinforces the emphasis on health‑centric built environments. The sales mix at launch highlights both investment and lifestyle motivations. Properties span multiple price bands and formats—apartments, townhomes, penthouses—offering price thresholds from AED 3 million upwards. This diversity widens appeal to both investors and end‑users seeking premium coastal residences. Abu Dhabi's property market is experiencing a resurgence in interest from international investors. Fahid Island's launch dovetails with broader market momentum, positioning the city as a global real estate hotspot. Its emphasis on wellness, youth engagement, and quality education aligns with shifting consumer values across the Gulf region. Moving ahead, Aldar anticipates sustained engagement from both domestic and international buyers. Jonathan Emery commented that ahead of subsequent phases, the developer expects Fahid Island's profile to strengthen on the global stage and continue drawing affluent individuals seeking health‑oriented, culture‑rich coastal communities.
Web Release
14 hours ago
- Web Release
UAE Deepens Investment in Social Infrastructure Amid Population Growth and Strategic Reforms
The Middle East will see a 25% increase in social infrastructure project activity in the next two years, according to a new report by Ansarada, a leading procurement platform. As population growth accelerates and quality-of-life standards become increasingly central to national agendas, governments across the Middle East are intensifying investment in social infrastructure projects. In 2024, the Middle East had a total value of US$1.6 billion in social infrastructure transactions, which is expected to grow to US$2.0 billion by 2027. According to the report, almost half (46%) of EMEA stakeholders cite population growth and improved quality of life as key investment drivers. Ansarada's Social Infrastructure Outlook 2025 explores key themes such as procurement efficiency, risk allocation and the shift towards workflow digitalisation, providing up-to-the-minute insights into prevailing procurement trends. explores key themes such as procurement efficiency, risk allocation and the shift towards workflow digitalisation, providing up-to-the-minute insights into prevailing procurement trends. Justin Smith, Managing Director, Ansarada, said, 'We're seeing a notable shift in how infrastructure capital is being deployed across the Middle East, with the UAE playing a leading role in this evolution. Through strategic reforms, ongoing population growth, and government initiatives promoting technology-enabled procurement, the UAE appears to be enhancing project delivery while working toward higher standards for sustainable urban development. This progressive approach is contributing to changes in how healthcare, education, and housing infrastructure are funded, built, and managed throughout the region.' The UAE federal government has allocated over AED 27 billion ($7.4 billion) to upgrade infrastructure, its most ambitious investment to date, driven by 4% annual population growth and rising global investor interest. To meet demand, the government is increasingly using public-private partnerships (PPP) models to fast-track delivery and leverage private sector expertise. At the same time, EMEA has emerged as the most competitive region, with 30% of professionals reporting very high levels of competition during the bidding stage of their most recent projects, significantly higher than any other market surveyed. By comparison, only 10% of respondents in Asia-Pacific reported similar levels of competition, pointing to deeper structural differences and market maturity across regions. More broadly, healthcare has emerged as the top investment priority for EMEA, with 68% of procurement professionals indicating the sector will see the greatest increase in value over the next two years. This is followed by leisure (56%) and education (52%), reflecting a broader focus on community well-being and long-term social resilience. The findings come amid growing complexity and urgency in delivering high-impact social infrastructure projects, particularly in rapidly developing markets such as the UAE, where demand for quality healthcare and education is accelerating The report confirms the UAE's emergence as the Middle East's infrastructure innovation hub, where digital-first procurement models are enabling faster, more cost-effective, and sustainable project delivery.
