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Overview
Geely is not simply another Chinese automotive brand. As the parent company of Volvo Cars, Polestar, and Lotus, Geely has absorbed engineering culture and platform development practices from some of the most technically accomplished automotive manufacturers in the world. The EX5 reflects this heritage - its platform architecture, safety engineering approach, and interior material quality draw on the Geely Group’s combined expertise in ways that set it apart from brands without such premium parentage.
The EX5 Complete is the fully specified variant of the EX5 range in Australia. Priced at $46,990, it competes against the BYD Sealion 7 ($54,990), Tesla Model Y RWD ($59,900), Hyundai Ioniq 5 Standard Range ($65,900), and the Kia EV6 ($68,990). Against these, the EX5 Complete delivers 480km of WLTP range and 120kW DC charging at a price that is $8,000–$22,000 lower, making it one of the most specification-competitive mid-size EVs in its segment.
The Complete’s distinguishing features over the Inspire entry trim are a comprehensive interior fit-out - panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, premium audio, and additional ADAS equipment - that represents a meaningful quality step-up rather than a token specification difference.
Pricing & Variants
| Variant | Battery | Range | DC Charge | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EX5 Inspire | 65.5 kWh | 480 km | 120 kW | $42,990 |
| EX5 Complete | 65.5 kWh | 480 km | 120 kW | $46,990 |
Both variants share the same battery, motor, and charging hardware. The $4,000 premium for the Complete buys the expanded interior and technology specification detailed below.
Performance
The EX5 Complete uses a single front-mounted motor producing FWD output. 0–100 km/h is achieved in 7.5 seconds - competitive for a mid-size FWD electric SUV at this price. Top speed is 175 km/h. The FWD layout provides reliable traction in standard Australian driving conditions. The motor and inverter are developed on the Geely Group’s SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform, which underpins multiple Geely Group vehicles and has been engineered to meet Volvo’s safety and quality standards.
Regenerative braking is adjustable via steering wheel paddles, with a one-pedal driving mode available in the strongest regen setting.
Range and Charging
The 65.5kWh battery delivers 480km WLTP. Real-world range at 110 km/h highway sits at approximately 380–410km with climate control active. In mixed urban-suburban driving, 440–460km is achievable. For a daily driver charging at home, the EX5 Complete requires approximately one full charge per week for typical Australian commuting patterns.
DC fast charging peaks at 120kW via CCS - above the average for the sub-$50,000 mid-size segment. A 10–80% charge takes approximately 34 minutes. AC charging via Type 2 runs at 11kW three-phase on a compatible wallbox, delivering a full charge in approximately 7 hours. AC charging at 7.4kW single-phase is standard-compatible.
No V2L or V2H capability is available on the EX5 Complete or Inspire.
Interior and Technology
The Complete trim’s interior represents the strongest argument for choosing it over the Inspire. Standard inclusions are: panoramic glass roof with sunshade, ventilated and heated front seats, 12.3-inch central touchscreen with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, premium audio with subwoofer, ambient interior lighting, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Geely Group’s interior design sensibility - influenced by Volvo’s clean Scandinavian aesthetic - produces a cabin that feels considered rather than feature-stuffed. Surface quality and fit-and-finish are above the class average for Chinese EVs at this price point, reflecting the shared engineering culture with the Geely Group’s premium brands.
ADAS on the Complete is comprehensive: adaptive cruise control with lane centring, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree surround view camera system. Over-the-air updates keep the system current post-purchase.
Practicality
Five seats with comfortable rear passenger space. Boot capacity is approximately 470L behind the rear seats - adequate for family loads, sports equipment, and weekend luggage. There is no frunk given the FWD motor placement. Towing is rated at 1,000kg braked - suitable for a small trailer or bike carrier but not a boat or caravan. No V2L or V2H.
The EX5’s 175 km/h top speed and 480km range make it suitable for interstate travel. The 120kW DC charging speed makes highway charging stops practical - a 10-minute top-up at a fast charger adds approximately 60km.
Safety
Geely’s safety standards are directly informed by Volvo’s NCAP engineering culture. The EX5 is expected to achieve a 5-star ANCAP rating; confirm current ANCAP status. Standard safety equipment includes six airbags, AEB, lane centring, front and rear parking sensors with 360-degree cameras, and driver fatigue monitoring. The SEA platform’s structural standards are consistent with Volvo Group engineering requirements.
Running Costs and Ownership
Running cost: (65.5 kWh ÷ 480 km) × 100 × $0.30 = approximately $4.09/100km at $0.30/kWh. Against a 7.5L/100km petrol mid-size SUV at $2.10/L, annual fuel savings on 15,000km are approximately $1,800.
Geely offers a 4-year/160,000km warranty - below the Chinese average (BYD 6yr, Chery 7yr unlimited) but above European and American standards (typically 3yr). The 160,000km distance coverage is generous. The battery warranty covers retention to 70% over the warranty term. Geely’s Australian dealer network is in development - confirm local service access before purchase.
Verdict
The Geely EX5 Complete is the most compelling mid-size EV SUV under $50,000 in the Australian market when evaluated on specification per dollar. Its Geely Group engineering heritage, 480km range, 120kW DC charging, and fully equipped interior deliver a package that competes credibly with vehicles priced $10,000–$20,000 higher.
The 4-year warranty and developing dealer network are the honest limitations - both are below the standard set by Chery and BYD at similar prices. For buyers who can confirm local service access and accept a shorter warranty in exchange for a premium interior and compelling EV performance, the EX5 Complete is a genuinely strong choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Geely related to Volvo and Polestar?
Yes. Geely Holding Group is the parent company of Volvo Cars, Polestar, and Lotus, among others. While Geely-branded vehicles are separate from Volvo and Polestar, the group’s ownership means Geely vehicles benefit from shared engineering platforms, safety development processes, and manufacturing quality standards established across the group’s premium brands.
Why does the EX5 Complete only have a 4-year warranty when Chery offers 7 years?
Geely’s 4-year/160,000km warranty is in line with European and Korean standards (Hyundai, Kia, BMW). Chery’s 7-year unlimited is unusually generous. The 160,000km distance coverage is broadly generous; the 4-year time limit is the more restrictive element. Confirm whether extended warranty options are available through Geely Australia.
How does the EX5 Complete compare to the Tesla Model Y RWD?
The Tesla Model Y RWD ($59,900) offers 455km WLTP, 170kW DC charging, and the Tesla Supercharger network advantage. The Geely EX5 Complete ($46,990) offers 480km WLTP, 120kW DC charging, and a more traditional interior layout at $13,000 less. For buyers prioritising charging network access, the Model Y’s Supercharger advantage is significant. For buyers who primarily charge at home and want more range for less money, the EX5 Complete is a strong alternative.
