Geely EX5 EM-i Review UAE: The 1,065km Hybrid SUV That Could Change Family Car Buying in 2026

The UAE automotive market is rapidly embracing electrified mobility, and Geely is aiming to make the transition easier with the new EX5 EM-i. Combining plug-in hybrid technology, a spacious family-focused cabin, impressive driving range, and competitive pricing, the EX5 EM-i arrives as one of the most value-packed SUVs in its segment.

For buyers who want lower fuel costs but are not yet ready to switch to a fully electric vehicle, the EX5 EM-i presents an attractive middle ground. With a claimed combined range of up to 1,065 km and prices starting from AED 89,900, it targets families, daily commuters, and long-distance drivers alike.

Key Highlights

• Claimed combined driving range of up to 1,065 km.
• Pure electric range of up to 170 km (NEDC).
• 1.5-litre plug-in hybrid powertrain producing 314 hp.
• 387 Nm of combined torque.
• Starting price from AED 89,900 in the UAE.
• Spacious family-friendly interior with modern technology.
• Competitive running costs compared to petrol SUVs.

What Is the Geely EX5 EM-i?

The Geely EX5 EM-i is a plug-in hybrid SUV that combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and a large battery pack. Unlike conventional hybrids, it can be charged externally, allowing many daily journeys to be completed using electricity alone.

This setup provides the flexibility of a petrol vehicle while significantly reducing fuel consumption for everyday driving. It enters a growing segment that includes rivals such as the BYD Song Plus, Deepal S05, and Jaecoo J7 SHS.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the bonnet, the EX5 EM-i focuses on efficiency without sacrificing usable performance.

Acceleration feels responsive thanks to the instant torque from the electric motor. While it is not designed as a performance SUV, the EX5 EM-i offers more than enough power for daily commuting, highway overtaking, and long-distance touring across the UAE.

Modern Design with Practical Appeal

The EX5 EM-i adopts a sleek and contemporary design language inspired by Geely's latest electrified models.

Slim LED headlights, aerodynamic styling elements, and a full-width rear light bar give it a premium appearance. The clean front fascia further reinforces its electrified identity while maintaining strong road presence.

Spacious Interior and Family-Friendly Cabin

One of the EX5 EM-i's biggest strengths is its practicality.

The cabin offers generous passenger space, particularly in the rear seats, making it well-suited for UAE families. Rear passengers benefit from excellent legroom, dedicated air vents, and USB-C charging ports.

Cargo capacity is equally impressive:

• 428 litres of boot space.
• More than 2,000 litres with rear seats folded.
• Multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin.
• Comfortable seating for long-distance travel.

Whether it's school runs, shopping trips, or weekend road journeys, the EX5 EM-i delivers the versatility most SUV buyers expect.

Technology and Features

Geely has equipped the EX5 EM-i with an extensive list of technology features that rival more expensive competitors.

Key highlights include:

• Large central infotainment touchscreen.
• Smartphone connectivity and connected services.
• Premium audio system.
• Wireless charging.
• Digital instrument display.
• Remote vehicle control functions.
• Advanced driver assistance systems.

The technology package enhances convenience and makes daily driving more enjoyable.

Safety Features

Safety remains a major focus for the EX5 EM-i.

The SUV includes:

• Six airbags.
• Adaptive Cruise Control.
• 540-degree camera system.
• Automatic Emergency Braking.
• Lane Keeping Assist.
• Blind Spot Monitoring.
• Multiple ADAS safety systems.
• Approximately 16 advanced driver assistance functions.

These systems help improve driver confidence during both city and highway driving.

Ownership Costs in the UAE

One of the strongest arguments for the EX5 EM-i is its potential to reduce running costs.

Drivers who regularly charge the battery can significantly lower their fuel expenses compared to conventional petrol SUVs. Geely claims fuel economy of up to 23.25 km/L, while many owners report real-world figures between 17 and 22 km/L depending on usage patterns.

Compared with similarly sized petrol-powered SUVs, monthly fuel savings can be substantial.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent claimed range of up to 1,065 km.
• Spacious and practical family SUV.
• Competitive pricing.
• Strong technology package.
• Low running costs.

Cons

• Long-term resale value remains unproven.
• Relatively new model with limited ownership history.
• Front-wheel-drive layout may not appeal to all buyers.

Final Verdict

The Geely EX5 EM-i arrives at exactly the right time for the UAE market. It offers a compelling blend of efficiency, practicality, technology, and affordability that many buyers are actively seeking.

Its plug-in hybrid powertrain provides the flexibility of petrol power while delivering meaningful reductions in fuel consumption. Add in the spacious interior, extensive feature list, and competitive starting price, and the EX5 EM-i becomes one of the strongest value-for-money electrified SUVs currently available.

Conclusion

For UAE buyers who want lower running costs without fully committing to an electric vehicle, the Geely EX5 EM-i makes a strong case for itself. Its impressive 1,065 km claimed range, family-friendly practicality, modern technology, and attractive pricing create a package that is difficult to ignore. While long-term reliability and resale values will become clearer over time, the EX5 EM-i already stands out as one of the smartest plug-in hybrid SUV choices in the UAE market for 2026.