Overview
The Geely EX5 marks the arrival of the Chinese automotive giant into the UK, positioned as a highly competitive mid-sized electric SUV aimed at family buyers. While Geely is already known as the powerhouse behind Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and smart, the EX5 is the first vehicle to wear the Geely badge. It enters a very contested segment, competing directly with established and new rivals including the Kia EV5, BYD Atto 3 Evo, Ford Explorer, and MGS5 EV. The EX5 differentiates itself by offering the physical dimensions of a larger C-segment SUV at a price point that undercuts its mainstream competitors.
Design
The exterior of the Geely EX5 focuses on a clean, conservative design language engineered to appeal globally and blend into modern environments. The front end is completely smooth and grille-less, defined by automatic LED headlights and the six-square emblem. The side profile reveals a cohesive silhouette with automatic flush door handles, roof rails, and bi-colour aerodynamic alloy wheels that range from 18 to 19 inches depending on the specification. At the rear, the vehicle features an LED full-width light bar, reminiscent of premium European designs, giving the SUV a planted and modern aesthetic.
Interior
Inside, the cabin features an asymmetric layout dominated by a floating centre console and a large 15.4-inch central infotainment touchscreen alongside a 10.2-inch digital driver display. Material quality is high, with extensive use of soft-touch materials, faux leather upholstery across all tiers, and an attractive matte line-pattern plastic on major surfaces. Top-spec variants benefit from a large 13.8-inch head-up display and a premium 16-speaker audio system. While almost all physical climate and vehicle controls are integrated into the central screen, common sense additions include a customisable steering wheel shortcut button, and a large physical rotary dial on the centre console configured for volume or temperature adjustments.
Performance & Powertrains
The Geely EX5 is powered by a front-mounted single electric motor delivering 215 hp, driving the front wheels to deliver a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 109 mph. Energy is stored in a 60kWh Short Blade battery pack, which delivers a range of 255 to 267 miles depending on the trim level. Charging capabilities include an 11 kW AC onboard charger and a maximum DC rapid charging rate of 160 kW, allowing a 10% to 80% top-up in 28 minutes. The chassis and suspension setup underwent local development with tuning input from Lotus engineers, resulting in a stable and controlled ride that prioritizes highway refinement over sports-car agility.
Practicality
Cabin space is an outright strength for the EX5 due to its generous wheelbase and wide footprint. Rear passengers enjoy exceptional headroom, adjustable backrest angles, and a flat floor layout that easily accommodates three occupants across the rear bench. While the 461-litre boot capacity sits slightly behind some class leaders, it expands to 1,877 litres with the rear seats folded down. Clever storage solutions compensate for the lack of a frunk, including a massive open storage tray beneath the floating front console, deep door bins, a 51-litre deep well underneath the main boot floor, and a unique pull-out storage drawer under the rear seat bench.
Buying
The Geely EX5 range launches with three distinct trim levels. Pricing starts at £31,990 for the base SE model, which comes exceptionally well equipped with standard features like a 360-degree surround-view camera, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a built-in heat pump, and vehicle-to-load capability. The mid-spec Pro trim is priced from £33,990, introducing larger 19-inch alloy wheels and alternative interior colour ways, while the range-topping Max model costs £36,990 and introduces a panoramic sunroof, powered tailgate, and ventilated massage seats. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the mid-range Pro trim, as it unlocks better aesthetic options and larger wheels while still keeping the final cost low compared to segment alternatives.