When I first sat in the Geely EX5, I didn’t expect much from a brand most British buyers still mispronounce. But Geely isn’t some fly-by-night operation; this is a conglomerate that’s been building things since 1986, starting out making fridge parts before anyone imagined it would own Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar.
The empire now spans Smart, a joint venture with Aston Martin, and a major stake in Renault’s Horse Powertrain brand. Built on the GEA platform, the EX5 debuted in London with its chassis tuned by Lotus Engineering specifically for British roads.
Geely EX5 UK Price and Trim Walk
The entry-level SE begins at an RRP of £29,690, rising to £30,790 for the Pro, £31,990 for mid-spec, £33,240 for Max, and peaking at £33,990 for the Ultra. However, these list prices drop significantly once you factor in official government incentives and Geely’s dedicated EV grants.
Via Carwow, pre-registered car prices have plummeted to just £24,998, frequently packaged alongside complimentary two-year maintenance deals and part-exchange bonuses valued at thousands of pounds.
Even at the cheaper end, standard kit includes adaptive cruise control, wireless phone charging, a heated steering wheel, and a 360-degree camera, which feels generous for the asking price.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the skin, the Geely EX5 runs a single front-mounted electric motor producing around 218hp, translating to 160kW of power and 320Nm of torque sent through the front wheels. The 0-62mph sprint takes roughly 7 seconds, with a top speed capped at 109mph.
Offering a WLTP range of 267 miles, the vehicle utilizes either a standard 60.2kWh battery or an extended-range 68.3kWh pack. A mid-generation update planned for 2027 in China is anticipated to introduce rear-wheel drive, a power boost, and refreshed styling elements.
Driving Experience and Ride Comfort
On the road, the suspension feels firm over sharper bumps, though it settles nicely once cruising rather than crawling through town. Tackle a twisty road and the steering feels a touch remote, but body roll stays well controlled during enthusiastic cornering.
The multi-link rear suspension smooths out potholes better than expected, and three levels of regenerative braking, including a proper one-pedal mode, make it more intuitive than rivals like Leapmotor. It isn’t a sharp corner-carver, but it’s a relaxed, confident cruiser overall.
Dimensions, Boot Space and Practicality
Stretching 4,615mm in length and riding on a 2,750mm wheelbase, the Geely EX5 weighs between 1,715kg and 1,815kg depending on spec.
Boot space measures 461 litres with seats up, expanding to 1,877 litres with seats folded down, which stacks up well against rivals like the Kia EV3 and Skoda Elroq, most of which offer around 460 litres.
A clever 51-litre underfloor storage compartment is perfect for cables, while rear passengers benefit from reclined seatbacks, a fold-down armrest, and even a snack tray built into the bench.
Interior, Trim Levels and Technology
The cabin centres around a 15.4-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.2-inch digital driver’s display, running Geely’s own Flyme Auto software alongside wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Physical buttons still exist alongside screen controls, which is a relief since not everything is buried in submenus.
Higher trims add a panoramic glass sunroof, powered tailgate, massaging front seats, ventilated and heated seats, a head-up display, and a 1,000W 16-speaker sound system with ambient lighting that genuinely elevates the cabin feel.
Electric Range, Charging and Efficiency
That headline 267-mile WLTP figure sounds great on paper, though real-world testing told a slightly different story, closer to 280 miles around town and 254 miles once motorway driving entered the mix.
For DC fast charging, expect speeds between 120kW and 135kW, taking roughly 28 minutes for a 30-80% top-up. AC charging via the onboard 11kW charger takes around six hours for a full charge.
A heat pump comes as standard, which genuinely helps on longer journeys, though rivals like the Skoda Elroq claim a longer range if that matters more to you.
Rivals and How It Compares
Parked against the competition, the Geely EX5 has to contend with the Tesla Model Y, BYD Atto 3, Leapmotor C10, Kia EV3, and closer to home, the Jaecoo E5 and Omoda E5.
At its UK price point, it undercuts the Tesla Model Y RWD by a wide margin while running CATL’s LFP battery chemistry rather than BYD’s own.
Its 0-62mph time beats several rivals, and the warranty is genuinely strong too, running to seven years and 100,000 miles on the battery, which makes a compelling case whether you’re weighing boot space, standard kit, or long-range comfort.
Unique Details Worth Knowing
One quirk worth flagging: Geely EX5 is pronounced with a hard J sound, closer to “Jeely,” a small detail that trips up plenty of owners discussing it online. Safety wise, it earned a 5-star rating from Euro NCAP in 2025, scoring 87% for adult occupant protection and 86% for child occupant protection.
Geely’s wider stable of brands, including Polestar, Volvo, and Lotus, adds confidence, with the EX5 backed by an 8-year, 125,000-mile battery warranty that comfortably beats rivals like the MG S5 EV at just four years. As a body type, this SUV seats five comfortably and sits in the lowest first-year tax bracket available.
Verdict
Would I recommend the Geely EX5? For most buyers, yes. It nails the brief of comfort and practicality without blowing the budget, especially with pre-registration pricing sweetening the deal further.
The seven-year warranty offers real peace of mind, though AWD isn’t available yet and the ADAS chimes can grow tiresome on longer runs.
Styling-wise it’s remarkably plain, almost unexciting, but it’s thoroughly competent. I’d land on 8 out of 10 in a crowded segment, ideal for anyone prioritising space and value over outright thrills.
FAQs about Geely EX5
Is EX5 a Volvo?
No, the Geely isn’t a Volvo, though Geely is the parent conglomerate that also owns Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar.
Is the EX5 a good car?
Yes, the EX5 is a strong value choice, offering comfort, practicality, and a 7-year warranty without blowing the budget.
Is EX5 a Chinese car?
Yes, the EX5 is built by Geely, a Chinese conglomerate that has been manufacturing since 1986.
Is Geely coming to UK?
Yes, the Geely has already launched in the UK, with its chassis specifically tuned by Lotus Engineering for British roads.