The electric vehicle sector in China is a whirlwind of innovation and competition, with brands constantly vying for attention and market share. Among these is Geely, a company known for its collaborations with renowned automotive names like Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and Zee. Their latest offering, the rear-drive Geely EX5, promises to be a standout in a crowded field, showcasing advancements in design and technology that elevate it to a new level of sophistication and practicality.
The new EX5 catches the eye with its notable enhancements that signify a serious commitment to quality. While the overall structure remains recognizable, the subtle alterations tell a compelling story. Geely has removed the troublesome pop-out door handles in favor of traditional grab handles that are more reliable in all weather conditions. The front and rear bumpers have received a more aggressive design, enhanced by chrome and matte-black trims, alongside added proximity sensors. A standout feature is the prominent LiDAR pod mounted above the windscreen, hinting at advanced autonomous capabilities.
With dimensions of 4,636 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and 1,670 mm in height, the EX5 hits a sweet spot for daily driving utility. It is slightly shorter than the Skoda Enyaq while boasting a wider stance than the standard Volkswagen ID.4, not to mention its near-identical dimensions to the Tesla Model Y, allowing for spaciousness that optimizes both comfort and practicality.
Upon opening the electronically operated hood—a rarity among mass-market crossovers—drivers will discover a substantial front luggage compartment that offers 160 l of storage and a payload capacity of 50 kg. This space is perfect for carrying luggage or equipment, making the EX5 an excellent choice for weekend getaways or family outings. Sporting 19-inch alloys and a conveniently located high-speed charging port, its exterior cleverly merges utility with an athletic aesthetic.
Geely’s design team has also excelled in the cabin, steering clear of the excessive reliance on touchscreens that many modern vehicles have embraced. The EX5 features a prominent central screen as well as a digital instrument cluster paired with a head-up display, yet maintains straightforward physical controls for climate settings and drive modes, preserving the essence of user-friendly ergonomics.
The sporty steering wheel features a flat-bottom design for added comfort, while the column-mounted gear selector liberates extra space for key functionalities such as high-power wireless phone charging. The rear passengers benefit from a spacious center armrest, ensuring that the interior strikes a harmonious balance between digital innovation and traditional user interface sensibilities.
In terms of performance, the revamped EX5 marks a significant upgrade over its predecessor. The old front-mounted motor, producing 215 hp (160 kW), has been replaced by a powerful rear-mounted motor offering 329 hp (245 kW), taking advantage of an 800V high-voltage architecture. This transformation brings about a lively driving experience, turning the EX5 from a mundane family car into an engaging and spirited crossover.
Buyers can expect options for two lithium-iron-phosphate battery packs designed for rapid charging, with the entry-level version featuring a 61.5 kWh battery capable of a class-leading 550 km range on the Chinese CLTC cycle. The flagship 70 kWh variant pushes that range up to 635 km under the same cycle, which translates to approximately 520 km on the European WLTP standard, vastly improving the travel capabilities compared to its predecessor.
Intelligent features have not been overlooked, with Geely’s proprietary G-ASD G-Pilot H5 suite providing essential driver assistance. The roof-mounted LiDAR combined with various sensors contributes to Navigate On Autopilot capabilities, equipping the EX5 with sophisticated urban navigation technologies that are increasingly sought after in today's car market.
While Geely plans to launch the revamped EX5 across China on September 23, its sights are set globally. Given the challenges posed by rising prices and slow software updates in Western markets, the EX5 is positioned to attract attention when it reaches European dealerships. If Geely can maintain competitive pricing, traditional automakers may find themselves facing a serious new challenger in the EV landscape.
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