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Geely EX5 Review: Affordable Electric SUV with Genuine Premium Appeal
- Adam Gray
- Feb 25
- 6 min read
This Geely EX5 review examines one of the most competitively positioned new electric SUVs entering the UK market.
Geely may still be building brand recognition in Britain, but as the parent company of Volvo, Polestar and Lotus, it brings considerable engineering experience. The EX5 represents the brand’s first serious all-electric SUV push into Europe — combining strong equipment levels, practical range and an unexpectedly upmarket cabin.
On paper, it promises up to 267 miles of WLTP range, rapid charging capability and an eight-year warranty — all at a price point designed to undercut established European rivals.
Quick Overview
Powertrain | Power output | 0–62 mph | Battery capacity | Electric range (WLTP) | DC fast charging | Warranty |
Single electric motor (front-wheel drive) | 218 PS / 320 Nm | 6.9–7.1 seconds | 60.2 kWh | Up to 267 miles | 10–80% in under 30 minutes | 8 years / 125,000 miles |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Cabin quality exceeds price expectations
Generous standard equipment
Comfortable, refined driving experience
Competitive charging speeds
Strong warranty coverage
Cons
Conservative exterior styling
Touchscreen-heavy control layout
Real-world range can fall short of WLTP figures
No larger battery option
First Impressions
Clean, Conservative and Well Executed
The EX5 adopts a safe, modern SUV design language. A smooth, closed-off grille, slim LED lighting and clean body surfacing give it a contemporary presence without unnecessary visual aggression.
It is unlikely to turn heads — but that restraint may actually broaden its appeal. The proportions are well judged, and it sits comfortably alongside more expensive mid-size electric SUVs without looking out of place.
The overall impression is measured and sensible rather than dramatic.
Interior Quality
Where It Makes Its Strongest Case
Inside is where the EX5 genuinely surprises.
A large 15.4-inch central touchscreen dominates the dashboard, paired with a clean layout and slim air vents. The floating centre console creates useful storage space beneath, contributing to a practical, uncluttered feel.
Material quality is notably strong at key touchpoints — upper dashboard, door tops and armrests feel solid and well assembled. It does not feel like a budget interior attempting to imitate premium brands; it feels properly engineered.
Standard equipment includes:
Heated steering wheel
Synthetic leather upholstery
Wireless phone charging
Privacy glass
Full LED lighting
Higher trims introduce:
Heated, ventilated and massaging front seats
Head-up display
Panoramic glass roof
Electric tailgate
1,000-watt FlyMe sound system
Rear passenger space is generous thanks to the flat EV floor, offering strong legroom for family use. Cabin presentation competes convincingly with established European rivals at a higher price point.
Driving Experience
Comfort-Focused and Effortless
With 215 horsepower delivered to the front wheels, the EX5 accelerates from 0–62 mph in around seven seconds. That places it comfortably within segment norms and provides more than adequate real-world performance.
Ride comfort is clearly prioritised. Suspension tuning absorbs uneven UK road surfaces effectively, and the supportive seating enhances long-distance refinement.
Steering is light at low speeds and firms slightly at motorway pace, though it remains comfort-oriented rather than engaging. Body control is secure but not sporty.
This is not a driver’s SUV — it is calm, predictable and refined, aligning with what most family EV buyers expect.
Battery & Range
Competitive Figures with a Caveat
All versions currently use a 60.2 kWh battery.
WLTP range varies slightly by trim:
Up to 267 miles (SE)
Up to 258 miles (Pro)
Up to 255 miles (Max)
In mixed real-world use — particularly motorway driving with passengers — achieving the official figures may prove optimistic.
However, DC fast charging from 10–80% in under 30 minutes keeps the EX5 competitive for longer journeys.
A larger battery option would strengthen the line-up further, particularly for higher-mileage drivers.
Technology & Driver Assistance
Modern but Screen-Heavy
The 15.4-inch infotainment display is bright and responsive, with logically arranged home screens once familiarised.
Wireless Apple CarPlay is supported, with Android Auto arriving via over-the-air update.
Driver assistance systems are comprehensive and include adaptive cruise control and lane-change assist — equipment not always standard in this price bracket.
The primary drawback is reliance on touchscreen controls for key functions, with minimal physical shortcut buttons.
Practicality
Strong Space, Thoughtful Packaging
The dedicated EV platform provides a completely flat rear floor, improving rear-seat comfort.
Boot capacity is competitive for the class, with a practical loading aperture and usable storage space for family needs.
Interior storage is generally well considered, particularly with the floating centre console design.
Overall practicality aligns well with expectations for a mid-size electric SUV.
Price & Positioning
Value-Oriented Without Feeling Budget
The EX5 enters the UK market positioned below many established European electric SUV rivals while matching — and in some areas exceeding — them on equipment and perceived interior quality.
The eight-year, 125,000-mile warranty adds significant reassurance for buyers new to the Geely badge.
From a value standpoint, this is where the EX5 becomes particularly compelling.
Verdict
Sensible, Comfortable and Impressively Complete
The Geely EX5 does not attempt to redefine the electric SUV segment through styling or driving excitement.
Instead, it focuses on:
Cabin quality
Generous equipment
Comfort and refinement
Competitive pricing
Strong warranty support
It feels mature, thoughtfully engineered and strategically positioned.
For UK buyers seeking an electric family SUV that delivers a premium feel without premium-brand pricing, the EX5 deserves serious consideration.
It may not seek attention, but it delivers where it matters most.
The Car Buying Coach UK Advice
For UK buyers, the Geely EX5 suits drivers ready to move fully electric but unwilling to sacrifice comfort, equipment or perceived quality in the process. It makes particular sense for families with predictable daily mileage, access to home charging, and a preference for refinement over sportiness.
The conservative styling and touchscreen-heavy controls may not appeal to everyone, and higher-mileage motorway drivers should carefully assess whether the 60.2 kWh battery comfortably covers their weekly usage. There is currently no larger battery option, which may limit its suitability for some.
If you prioritise interior quality, generous standard specification and overall value rather than badge prestige or driving excitement, the EX5 presents a convincing case in the mid-size electric SUV segment.
As always, compare real-world range expectations against your actual driving patterns, confirm charging access at home or work, and review trim differences carefully before committing.
Want help deciding whether this EV genuinely fits your lifestyle — or comparing it against key alternatives? Take a look at my car buying services and I’ll guide you through the process step by step, ensuring you choose with clarity and confidence.
FAQs — Geely EX5
Is the Geely EX5 available in the UK?
Yes. The Geely EX5 is launching in the UK as part of the brand’s wider European expansion. It represents Geely’s first major all-electric SUV offering under its own badge in Britain.
What is the real-world range of the Geely EX5?
The official WLTP range is up to 267 miles depending on trim. In real-world UK driving — particularly motorway use in colder conditions — expect a lower figure. For most mixed driving scenarios, a realistic range estimate would typically sit below the headline WLTP number.
How long does the Geely EX5 take to charge?
Using a DC rapid charger, the EX5 can charge from 10–80% in under 30 minutes under ideal conditions. Home charging times will vary depending on your wallbox output, but overnight charging on a standard 7kW home charger is practical for most users.
Does the Geely EX5 support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay is supported, and Android Auto compatibility is available via over-the-air software update.
Is the Geely EX5 front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive?
The EX5 uses a single electric motor driving the front wheels. There is currently no dual-motor all-wheel drive version available.
How powerful is the Geely EX5?
The EX5 produces 218 PS and 320 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0–62 mph takes approximately 7 seconds, which is competitive for a mid-size electric SUV in this price bracket.
What battery size does the Geely EX5 have?
All UK versions use a 60.2 kWh battery pack. At present, there is no larger battery option offered.
Is the Geely EX5 good value compared to rivals?
The EX5 is positioned aggressively against established European electric SUVs, offering strong standard equipment levels, a premium-feeling interior and an eight-year, 125,000-mile warranty. From a specification-per-pound perspective, it is highly competitive.
Is Geely a reliable brand?
Geely is the parent company behind Volvo, Polestar and Lotus, and has significant global manufacturing experience. The eight-year, 125,000-mile warranty offered on the EX5 provides additional reassurance for UK buyers new to the badge.
Who should consider buying the Geely EX5?
The EX5 suits UK families and commuters with access to home charging who prioritise comfort, specification and value over sporty driving dynamics or premium-brand prestige.
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