The Geely EX5 is the Chinese automaker’s first model in the UK, offering compact SUV buyers an electric option on a budget. A few weeks earlier, we had a chance to explore the MG S5 EV rival in detail in a global-spec model.
Design
The Geely EX5 combines a streamlined body with design elements that one would associate with an EV in 2026. It does not stand out from the crowd like some of its futuristic rivals though, such as the Nissan Ariya, for instance.
Conventionally positioned sleek headlamps lend the EX5 a fairly aggressive look. The nose is largely covered, and the bonnet is set low to keep the drag low. Small side air inlets and an angular A-shaped air intake grille are also worth noting here.
On the sides, automatic flush door handles, 19-inch low-drag alloy wheels, slim mirrors, and flush roof rails contribute to the EX5’s sleek styling. The sculpted doors add to its polished appearance. The proportions, however, look quite generic.
At the rear, the tailgate features minimal surfacing and ornamentation for a clean look, while the tail lamp extends across the width, providing contrast.
Interior
The interior of the Geely EX5 carries a minimalist theme. The slim profile of the horizontal dashboard, the two-spoke octagonal steering wheel, the asymmetric bridge-type centre console, and the 256-colour ambient lighting system work to create a premium vibe, particularly when specified in the Cloud colour scheme as seen in the unit we experienced.
A 15.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system is the nerve centre of most interior controls, although a few buttons and a rotary dial have been used in the centre console for basic functions such as adjusting the AC temperature/fan speed or the speaker volume. There are 33 storage compartments, including a drawer under the rear seat.
Experience in the Geely EX5
At 5’7″, I had no issues with ingress or egress in the Geely EX5. The driver’s seat slides back when unlocking the vehicle, which helps. Forward, rear, and side visibility are all good.
The front seats offer 6-way power adjustment for the driver and 4-way for the passenger. Both seats include heating, ventilation, memory, and an 8-point massage function. The front passenger seat also gets a 2-way power-adjustable leg support.
There’s about six inches of headroom in the front. Under-thigh support on the driver’s seat feels average, but on the passenger side, the leg support compensates for that. Side bolstering is well judged and holds you in place. Back and shoulder support are both good.
The material quality is respectable, although not class-leading. There is soft-touch padding in key areas, along with a faux wood panel on the centre console. The centre console sits high and rises slightly towards the dashboard, which improves armrest comfort. The switches and buttons feel solid, and all steering wheel controls are physical.
The wireless charging pad sits slightly too far back. It is not easy to glance at the phone while driving, and your arm can brush against it when resting on the armrest, which may activate the screen unintentionally. There is also a small storage space nearby. It is not very deep but remains usable.
In the rear, the floor is fully flat. Headroom is about four inches. The rear seat offers a two-stage recline along with good back and shoulder support. Under-thigh support is adequate. With the front seat set in my usual position, there is ample legroom, with generous space under the front seats and around 10 inches of knee room.
Amenities in the rear include two USB ports (Type-A and Type-C), a storage slot for a smartphone below them, two AC vents, a fold-out centre armrest with cup holders, bottle holders, storage tray under the rear seat, and seatback pockets.
Specifications
Geely offers the EX5 in one powertrain configuration in the UK, with a front-mounted motor producing 160 kW (215 bhp) and 320 Nm (236 lb.-ft.) of torque and a 60.2 kWh (net) LFP battery pack that can be charged at up to 100 kW (DC), with 30-80% SoC achieved in about 20 minutes.
The EX5 hits 0 to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds and achieves a top speed of 109 mph. Depending on the trim, it can travel 255-267 miles on a single charge, as per WLTP.
Price & release date
The Geely EX5’s prices in the UK range from GBP 31,990 to GBP 36,990. Its customer deliveries have been underway since November last year.
Since 2014, I’ve worked as an international automotive editor, attending global motor shows, industry events, media drives, and tracking the latest developments across the sector, with a particular focus on electrified vehicles.
