What are the differences between the M8 and GL8?
3 Answers
The Buick GL8, positioned as a joint-venture brand, comes with a higher price tag, while the Trumpchi M8 offers better value for money. If you have a relatively limited budget, the Trumpchi M8 would be a more suitable choice. Below is a comparison of the two: Design Comparison: The Trumpchi M8's exterior is divided into the Leader series and Master series, featuring a striking design, especially the Master series, which exudes a strong presence. The Buick GL8, on the other hand, continues with its traditional "fat head fish" design, which appears somewhat ordinary compared to the Trumpchi M8. Size Comparison: The Buick GL8 measures 5238/1878/1776 mm in length, width, and height, with a wheelbase of 3088 mm. The Trumpchi M8 measures 5089/1884/1822 mm, with a wheelbase of 3000 mm. In terms of size, the Buick GL8 holds the advantage. Powertrain Comparison: The Trumpchi M8 is equipped with a 2.0T+8AT powertrain combination, delivering a maximum power of 252 horsepower. The Buick GL8 features a 2.0T+9AT powertrain combination, with a maximum power of 237 horsepower. Based on the data, the Trumpchi M8 has a slight edge in terms of power.
I've driven the M8 and GL8 several times before, and I feel there's quite a difference in their driving experiences. As an SUV, the M8 is more agile to handle, making it easier to park in the city with a smaller turning radius, and its higher ground clearance helps avoid scraping the bottom on rough roads. The GL8 is more like a big box; its MPV design provides especially spacious rear seats, allowing family members to stretch their legs comfortably during long trips. In terms of space, the GL8 can easily accommodate seven or eight people along with luggage, while the M8's rear seats are a bit tighter, making it more suitable for small families or urban commuting. Regarding fuel consumption, the M8 is more economical, averaging around 10L/100km for daily commuting, whereas the GL8, being heavier, consumes close to 12L/100km in city driving. Their price ranges also differ—the top-tier M8 is around 200,000 RMB, while the entry-level GL8 starts above 250,000 RMB, with the GL8 holding its value better. Overall, the choice depends on your main usage: if it's for daily commuting or short weekend trips, the M8 is more cost-effective; if you frequently travel with the whole family or need it for business transport, the GL8 is more practical.
As someone who has been following the automotive market for years, I've noticed distinct positioning between the M8 and GL8. The M8 is Great Wall's premium SUV with rugged styling and strong sportiness, powered by either a 1.5T or 2.0T engine delivering quick throttle response. The GL8, as Buick's MPV, offers smooth power delivery but slower acceleration, prioritizing comfort. Their interior configurations differ significantly - the GL8 features sofa-like seats with rear AC vents and entertainment systems, even offering electric adjustment for second-row seats; while the M8 emphasizes tech with multifunctional large central screens though space utilization is average. Brand influence varies too: the M8, as a domestic rising star, offers great value appealing to budget-conscious young buyers; whereas the GL8, an established American model, carries more prestige in business settings. In actual driving, the GL8 demonstrates better high-speed stability with lower noise levels, while the M8 shows more wind noise. For deeper comparison, I recommend test driving to experience their suspension systems and steering feedback firsthand.