Geely EX5 Review: Pros and Cons of the Chinese EV SUV

The Geely EX5 impresses with a quiet and composed ride, thanks to excellent sound insulation and a well-tuned suspension that absorbs most road imperfections. The interior is a highlight: premium-feeling materials, comfortable seats, and a modern dashboard layout that feels more expensive than the price suggests. Range is adequate for most daily commutes and city driving, with real-world efficiency that holds up well in mixed conditions. The electric motor delivers smooth, instant acceleration sufficient for merging and overtaking without drama.

Charging speed is notably slower than some rivals, especially at public DC fast chargers, where the EX5’s peak rate lags behind. This makes it less ideal for frequent long-distance trips. The infotainment system, while feature-rich, can feel laggy at times, with occasional glitches in voice control and navigation. Rear visibility is compromised by a high tailgate and sloping roofline, making parking a bit more challenging without the optional 360-degree camera.

Around town, the EX5 is a relaxed cruiser. The steering is light and precise, and the regenerative braking is adjustable, allowing for one-pedal driving that is smooth once accustomed. The suspension does a good job of filtering out bumps, but sharper potholes can send a thud through the cabin. Cabin noise is well suppressed at city speeds, though wind noise becomes noticeable at highway velocities. Seats are supportive for long stints, and climate control works effectively without sapping range dramatically.

The EX5 offers generous passenger space, especially in the rear, where legroom and headroom are ample for adults. The boot is deep and square, with a flat floor when the rear seats are folded, though the loading lip is a bit high. There are a few clever storage cubbies up front. The tech package includes a large touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, and a host of driver assists. However, the lane-keeping system can be overly intrusive, and the adaptive cruise control sometimes hesitates on gentle curves.

Potential owners should be aware that Geely’s dealership network in some markets is still expanding, so service access may be limited. Parts availability could be slower than for established brands. The battery pack carries a long warranty, but degradation over time is a concern given the relatively modest thermal management. Some early reports mention software bugs that require dealer visits to fix, and over-the-air updates are not as frequent as with Tesla or NIO.

Shortlist the Geely EX5 if you are a budget-conscious buyer seeking a refined, spacious electric SUV for daily commuting and family duties, and you prioritize interior quality and ride comfort over charging speed. It also suits first-time EV owners who want a conventional driving experience with minimum compromise. Avoid the EX5 if you frequently undertake long road trips and need rapid charging, or if you expect cutting-edge software and frequent OTA updates. Also skip it if you require a prestigious badge or the latest autonomous driving tech.