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Overview
The Geely EX5 Inspire is the entry-specification variant of the EX5 range, offering the same 65.5kWh battery, 480km WLTP range, and 120kW DC fast charging as the Complete at a price of $42,990. The differentiation between the two variants is not in EV capability - it is in interior specification: the Inspire trades the Complete’s panoramic roof, ventilated seats, premium audio, and ambient lighting for a cleaner feature set that keeps the price closer to the $40,000 mark.
The Inspire’s value case is straightforward: the same Geely Group engineering foundation, the same range and charging performance, and the same safety platform as the Complete, at a price that competes directly with the Chery E5 Ultimate ($45,990), Deepal S05 RWD ($39,990), and BYD Atto 3 Extended ($44,990). Against these, the Inspire’s 480km range and 120kW DC charging rate are competitive, and the Geely Group’s Volvo-influenced engineering heritage is a genuine point of difference.
For buyers who will spend most of their time behind the wheel rather than evaluating the seat materials, the Inspire delivers the core EV experience without the premium comfort additions that add $4,000 to the Complete.
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 |
The Inspire and Complete share identical powertrain, battery, and charging hardware. The price difference reflects interior comfort and convenience features only.
Performance
The EX5 Inspire uses the same single front-mounted motor in FWD configuration as the Complete. 0–100 km/h takes 7.5 seconds. Top speed is 175 km/h. Performance is consistent with mid-size FWD electric SUV standards in this price bracket. The SEA platform’s motor and inverter deliver smooth, responsive power delivery appropriate for everyday Australian driving.
Regenerative braking is adjustable with one-pedal driving mode available. AWD is not available on either EX5 variant currently offered in Australia.
Range and Charging
480km WLTP from the 65.5kWh battery. Real-world range at 110 km/h highway is approximately 380–410km with climate control. In mixed urban-suburban conditions, 440–460km is typical. Charging at home on a 7.4kW wallbox provides a full charge in approximately 9 hours. On 11kW three-phase, this drops to approximately 7 hours.
DC fast charging at 120kW gives a 10–80% charge in approximately 34 minutes - the same as the Complete. For Inspire buyers who use highway charging regularly, the DC speed is adequate and consistent with mid-range performance across the segment.
No V2L or V2H is available.
Interior and Technology
The Inspire’s interior is clean and functional. A 12.3-inch central touchscreen handles infotainment, navigation, and climate control, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. The digital instrument cluster provides clear EV-specific data including range, charge status, and energy flow. Heated (but not ventilated) front seats are standard. The panoramic roof, ventilated seats, and premium audio of the Complete are not included.
Interior material quality reflects the Geely Group’s engineering standards - above the class average for Chinese EVs at this price but without the premium flourishes of the Complete. Fit and finish are solid for the price point.
ADAS includes adaptive cruise control with lane centring, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and a rear camera. The 360-degree surround view camera of the Complete may be reduced to a standard reversing camera on the Inspire - confirm with Geely Australia.
Practicality
Five seats with comfortable rear space. Boot capacity is approximately 470L. Towing is rated at 1,000kg braked - same as the Complete. No V2L or V2H. The Inspire’s practicality credentials match the Complete on every functional dimension; the differences are in comfort rather than capability.
Safety
The EX5 Inspire shares the Complete’s safety platform, structural engineering, and airbag system. The Geely Group’s Volvo-influenced safety culture is reflected in the platform’s design standards. ANCAP testing status should be confirmed at the time of reading.
Running Costs and Ownership
Running cost: (65.5 kWh ÷ 480 km) × 100 × $0.30 = approximately $4.09/100km at $0.30/kWh - identical to the Complete, as the powertrain is unchanged.
Geely’s 4-year/160,000km warranty applies to the Inspire. This is above European standards on distance coverage but shorter on years than Chinese PHEV and BEV competitors. Battery warranty covers 70% capacity retention over the term. Confirm local dealer and service coverage with Geely Australia.
Verdict
The Geely EX5 Inspire is the rational entry point to the EX5 range. For buyers who evaluate an EV on its drive experience, range, and charging speed rather than on the completeness of its interior specification, the Inspire delivers everything that matters at $4,000 less than the Complete.
Against the Chery E5 Ultimate at $45,990, the Inspire is $3,000 cheaper with 50km more WLTP range and 10kW more DC charging. Against the BYD Atto 3 Extended at $44,990, the Inspire offers slightly more range and a brand with premium automotive parentage. The Inspire is a strong value proposition for buyers prepared to research Geely’s Australian service coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Inspire miss compared to the Complete?
The main differences are the panoramic roof, ventilated front seats, premium audio system, ambient interior lighting, and potentially the 360-degree camera (vs reversing camera only). All EV powertrain specifications - battery, range, charging speed, motor - are identical. The choice between them is entirely about interior comfort preferences.
Is the Geely EX5 Inspire a good first EV?
Yes, particularly for buyers upgrading from a mid-size petrol SUV. The 480km WLTP range eliminates range anxiety for standard Australian driving patterns, the 120kW DC charging is fast enough for practical highway stops, and the clean interior layout is intuitive for drivers new to EVs. Home charging setup via a 7.4kW wallbox is recommended.
How does the 4-year warranty compare to competitors?
Chery offers 7-year unlimited on its E5 range. BYD offers 6-year/150,000km. Hyundai and Kia offer 5-year on Ioniq 5 and EV6. Geely’s 4-year is the shortest among the Chinese EV brands competing in Australia, though the 160,000km distance limit is generous. Ask Geely Australia about extended warranty options if the 4-year coverage concerns you.
