Geely EX5 review showcasing features performance and appeal in New Zealand electric SUV market

The rapid electrification of the global automotive industry is reshaping what drivers—and dealers—expect from modern vehicles. One of the latest entrants into the mid-size electric SUV segment comes from Geely, one of China’s most ambitious automotive manufacturers. With the debut of the Geely EX5 in New Zealand, we’re seeing a new contender challenge established names with a compelling mix of price, features, and performance.

But does the EX5 live up to the rising expectations of car enthusiasts and meet the operational needs of automotive dealers? This article breaks down the Geely EX5 in detail, offering a complete exploration of its design, technology, performance, practicality, and market implications.

A First Look: Bold Styling and Futuristic Vibes

With a growing roster of mid-size electric SUVs available in New Zealand, first impressions count. The Geely EX5 swiftly captures attention through its confident, contemporary design.

• Exterior design: Characterized by smooth surfaces, dramatic front LED lighting, and a crisp silhouette that balances urban agility with SUV stature.
• Light signature: Full-width LED lighting on both the front and rear elevates its nighttime presence, echoing high-end design language.
• Wheel package: Distinctive alloy wheels add a premium aesthetic, with aerodynamic advantages as a bonus.

Geely has engineered the EX5 to project a polished, futuristic appearance without appearing overly stylized. It’s designed to snap a head turn at a dealership forecourt or when quietly gliding through a neighborhood.

Interior Craftsmanship: Spacious, Digital, and Surprisingly Premium

Step inside the EX5, and you’re greeted by a cabin that emphasizes openness and digital command.

Minimalist Yet Functional

Geely maintains a clean, uncluttered dash design, animated by a large horizontal touchscreen that centers the entire cockpit.

• Infotainment System: 12.3-inch digital dashboard with Android-based software.
• User Interface: Swipe-responsive, easy-to-navigate UI with Chinese-English toggle.
• Materials: High-quality soft-touch finishes, synthetic upholstery, and metallic trim accents deliver a tactile, upmarket experience.

Ergonomics and Comfort

The Geely EX5 targets family comfort with thoughtful spatial engineering:

• Generous legroom and headroom across both rows
• Flat rear floor ideal for three adult passengers
• Panoramic sunroof enhancing spatial perception and light
• Boot space measuring approximately 500L, expanding further with folded rear seats

For car buyers conscious of modern amenities and comfort, the EX5’s interior delivers a solid proposition, challenging more expensive EV rivals.

Performance and Powertrain: Smooth and Sufficient

While performance junkies might look elsewhere for high-output specs, the Geely EX5 offers a well-rounded driving experience tuned more for smoothness and efficiency than outright speed.

Power Figures

• Motor: Single front-mounted electric motor
• Output: Approximately 120kW (160hp) and 240Nm of torque
• 0-100km/h: Estimated around 9 seconds

This allows the EX5 to match urban and highway conditions capably, which suits a wide range of user scenarios—from daily commutes to weekend family getaways.

Battery and Range

• Battery Pack: 52kWh lithium-ion pack
• Range: 300–350km (WLTP equivalent)
• Charging: DC fast charging capability with a 10–80% charge achievable in around 30–40 minutes

While not boasting class-leading range, it comfortably addresses the needs of most urban and suburban drivers while preserving affordability.

Driving Dynamics: Built for Everyday Poise

The EX5 favors stability and comfort over razor-sharp handling. Its suspension tuning and electric motor calibration make it a poised everyday cruiser.

Ride Quality and Steering

• MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension strike a balance between absorbency and responsiveness
• Well-weighted electric steering helps with both maneuverability and confident highway cruising

As a commuter or family car, its dynamics are predictable and gentle. More importantly, it feels reassuringly normal—an important benefit for customers transitioning from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Technology and Features: Intelligent Simplicity

Despite its competitive price point, the EX5 comes loaded with modern tech.

Connectivity and Infotainment

• Voice-controlled assistant supporting English/Mandarin commands
• Bluetooth connectivity with smartphone mirroring
• Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates improving long-term performance

Driver Assistance and Safety

Geely emphasizes safety with a suite of sensors and assistive systems:

• Adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go function
• Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
• Lane-keeping assist and driver fatigue monitoring
• 360-degree surround camera for parking aid

This safety and tech package easily positions the EX5 among the best-equipped in its price bracket.

Operational Benefits for Automotive Dealers

From a dealership perspective, the Geely EX5 represents a strategic asset:

• Competitive pricing: Makes it an attractive EV option with excellent value
• Feature-rich: Enhances showroom appeal through standard equipment
• Brand potential: As Geely’s visibility increases, early dealer adopters gain long-term resale advantages
• Fleet-friendly: With fleet adaptability thanks to ease of maintenance and balanced range

Dealers looking to future-proof inventory with reliable, forward-thinking EVs will likely find the EX5 a fitting portfolio addition.

Comparing the EX5: Mid-Segment Rivals

Understanding how the Geely EX5 stacks up against peers sharpens its appeal even further.

EX5 vs MG ZS EV

• MG offers slightly more punch, but EX5 delivers a more refined cabin
• Technology advantage leans in Geely’s favor with advanced UI and features

EX5 vs Kona Electric

• Hyundai’s Kona excels in range, but costs significantly more
• EX5 provides a broader value spread for budget-conscious EV buyers

EX5 vs BYD Atto 3

• BYD may attract youthful buyers, whereas EX5 leans toward sophistication and utility
• Feature sets are very close, though Geely’s digital innovations arguably outpace low-to-mid trims of the Atto 3

Ownership Experience: Practical and Peaceful

With growing infrastructure support across New Zealand, the ownership proposition of the EX5 looks favorable.

Running Costs and Maintenance

• No fuel expenses, estimated yearly savings of NZD $1,200 compared to petrol-powered equivalents
• Lower servicing bills due to fewer moving parts
• Estimated battery life of 8 years or 160,000km with performance retention of around 80%

Warranty and Support

Geely provides a comprehensive customer assurance package:

• 5-year vehicle warranty
• 8-year battery warranty
• Roadside assistance for the first 5 years

Combine this with OTA updates and the low cost of electricity, and the EX5 becomes a compelling ownership journey.

The Verdict: EV Democratization with Style

The Geely EX5 doesn’t try to outmuscle exotic electric SUVs. Instead, it carves a smart path that combines affordability, thoughtful design, impressive tech, and genuine ease of use. At a time when many buyers are exploring electric mobility for the first time, the EX5 positions itself as both accessible and aspirational—a formidably attractive option for enthusiasts and dealers alike.

Whether you’re stepping away from a fuel guzzler or expanding your showroom’s future-ready lineup, the Geely EX5 delivers a strong signal that China’s EV makers are no longer playing catch-up. They’re setting the pace.

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