New independent automotive manufacturer, Qoros, has taken the wraps off the GQ3, the first of a family of all-new models designed and developed by an international team of experienced specialists and new, young talent, specifically for markets in China and Europe.

The first model from Qoros, the elegant GQ3 compact (C-segment) sedan, introduces design themes and styling features that will define a unique brand identity across the forthcoming family of Qoros models. The GQ3 features an elegant exterior, a spacious, feature-packed interior and is engineered to achieve top European and Chinese crash test ratings.

Making its world debut at the Geneva International Motor Show (7-17 March), the Qoros GQ3 goes on sale in China in the second half of this year, with the first cars arriving in Europe later in the year.

The GQ3’s styling introduces a brand identity that will make every future model instantly recognisable as a Qoros. Under the leadership of executive director of Design, Gert Volker Hildebrand, a team of designers in Munich and Shanghai have created distinct and precise styling based on modern European design tastes.

The GQ3 has a sporty, elegant profile with a long wheelbase, short overhangs, a coupé-like silhouette and a roof that flows smoothly into the strong rear quarters. While horizontal lines emphasise the car’s impressive stature – at 1,839mm, it is one of the widest cars in its class – a striking swage line rises dynamically from the headlamps via the door handles to the rear lights. A prominent matt aluminium strip above each side sill adds to the visual stretch of the side profile, while muscular arches – accommodating alloy wheels up to 19-inch in size – and the car’s wide track reinforce its purposeful stature.

The face of the GQ3 sets the template for the Qoros model family, with wide headlamp units extending into the flanks of the car, framing the central upper grille at the same height. Horizontal LED bars feature at the upper edge of the headlights and in the distinctive rear light clusters.

The standard alloy wheels feature a triple-split eight-spoke design, which will become another signature design element for the Qoros brand.

The GQ3 will offer generous interior space, and the horizontally arranged “floating” dashboard will further enhance the impression of space in the cabin. In its ergonomics and quality, the Qoros GQ3 sets new standards for cars produced in China and will be comparable with the best-selling cars in Europe.

Prominently occupying the GQ3’s central console is the innovative eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system that represents an automotive industry first. The advanced software, technology and graphics were designed and developed in-house to safely manage information displays for minimal driver distraction and to optimise ease-of-use while on the move. The intelligent and powerful package was created specifically with the young, aspirational, always-connected target Qoros customer firmly in mind.

Replacing the array of switches and buttons that blights many modern car interiors, the capacitive touchscreen enables users to manage entertainment, navigation, Cloud connectivity and in-car networking functions with intuitive finger swipe movements that will be familiar to smartphone users.

The system allows drivers to book dealer service appointments, features an automatic emergency services alert in the event of an accident and supports usage-based car insurance services. The state-of-the-art navigation system includes best-in-class traffic information and an advanced points-of-interest search. Integrated social networking connectivity enables drivers to share their driving experiences, points-of-interest, favourite trips and photos via social media through the intuitive interface.

The immensely powerful fully-featured infotainment system will be fitted as standard across the GQ3 range.

The Qoros GQ3 is engineered to achieve maximum European and Chinese crash test ratings thanks to advanced safety technology. The car’s structural architecture incorporates the latest developments in the field of crash safety. The precise arrangement of supporting structures, as well as large-scale deformation zones prevent intrusions into the passenger cell during collisions.

In addition, occupants are protected by a comprehensive package of state-of-the-art safety measures, including front, side and curtain airbags, as well as highly-effective seatbelt restraint systems.

After its world premiere in Geneva, the Qoros GQ3 will be exhibited at the Shanghai Motor Show in April.