GAC M8 vs Lexus ES
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The GAC M8 starts from $76,590 before on-road costs, while the Lexus ES opens at $73,900. That makes the Lexus ES the more affordable entry point by $2,690.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $84,249 and $81,290 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Lexus ES by roughly $1,140 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the GAC M8 and Lexus ES hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GAC M8 packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 7 in the Lexus ES.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the GAC M8 and 8 in the Lexus ES.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GAC M8 stands out with GAC Premium audio that you will not find on the Lexus ES. The Lexus ES counters with head-up display and panoramic roof. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GAC M8 uses a Petrol Turbo producing 140kW and 330Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.5 seconds.
The Lexus ES responds with a Hybrid making 160kW and 221Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.9 seconds.
The Lexus ES has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 140kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus ES is 0.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GAC M8 measures 5,212mm long on a 3,070mm wheelbase, 237mm longer than the Lexus ES at 4,975mm (2,870mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GAC M8 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 800L in the GAC M8 and 473L in the Lexus ES, giving the GAC M8 a 327L advantage. The GAC M8 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the GAC M8 leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 1,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.4m to 12.8m
Based on 12.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,739/year for the GAC M8 and $1,511/year for the Lexus ES. That is a $228 annual difference in favour of the Lexus ES.
Estimated annual total: $1,739 (GAC M8) vs $1,511 (Lexus ES). The Lexus ES saves you roughly $228 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 8 years / 150,000km (GAC M8) vs 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus ES). The GAC M8 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —4yr (Lexus ES).
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GAC M8 if: You need more boot space, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer GAC's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus ES if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus ES takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Lexus ES will save you roughly $228 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the GAC M8 has a clear edge. The GAC M8 adds peace of mind with a longer 8-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
