By Malusi Msomi

Geely’s return to South Africa is not loud or flashy, but it is deliberate. The brand, which previously operated locally before exiting the market years ago, is back with a very different approach. In the time it has been away, Geely has grown into one of the world’s largest automotive groups, with global operations and technical partnerships that include well-known names like Volvo and Polestar. That global experience now underpins its renewed South African strategy.

We recently joined Geely SA at the Gallagher Convention Centre for a first drive of its two new offerings, the fully electric E5 and the plug-in hybrid E5 EM-i. Rather than trying to shock the market, the E5 range feels aimed at quietly reintroducing the brand with products that are competitive on paper and sensible in execution.

Design

From the outside, the E5 presents a clean, modern look. The design avoids unnecessary aggression, opting instead for smooth surfaces, slim LED lighting and well-proportioned body lines. Alloy wheels complete the look, and on the Apex derivatives, features like a panoramic sunroof and animated lighting signatures add a bit more visual interest.

It is not a design that demands attention, but it does look current and inoffensive, which is likely intentional given the brand’s re-entry into a competitive market.

Cabin: Tech-forward, but familiar

Inside, the E5 leans heavily into a tech-focused layout. A large 15.4-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, paired with a digital instrument cluster and wireless smartphone connectivity. The interface is straightforward, and the cabin layout feels intuitive rather than experimental.

Material quality is decent, especially for the segment, and the Apex models add extra comfort features such as a 16-speaker Flyme sound system, massaging seats and ambient lighting. These additions push the E5 closer to the premium end of the spectrum, though a longer-term test would be needed to judge how well they hold up in daily use.

On the Road

Our driving time was limited, so these impressions are very much first-glance observations rather than final conclusions.

The fully electric E5 uses a 160 kW motor and offers a claimed range of up to 430 km. Power delivery was smooth and predictable, with the instant response you would expect from an EV. It felt comfortable and easy to drive, particularly in urban conditions, and rapid charging capability adds some reassurance for everyday usability.

The E5 EM-i plug-in hybrid combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, with a claimed total range of up to 943 km. In brief driving, the system transitioned smoothly between electric and hybrid operation, prioritising quietness and efficiency rather than performance.

Ride comfort across both versions leaned toward the softer side. The suspension appeared tuned for everyday comfort, and steering was light, making the E5 easy to manage in traffic and tight spaces. This is clearly not a sporty SUV, but that does not appear to be the intention.

Context matters

What stood out most was how measured the E5 felt. It did not try to overwhelm with gimmicks or exaggerated performance claims during the drive. Instead, it presented itself as a practical, tech-heavy SUV aimed at buyers who want electrification without stepping too far outside their comfort zone.

That said, the segment Geely is entering is already crowded, and long-term factors such as dealer support, aftersales service and real-world efficiency will ultimately determine how successful the E5 becomes locally.

Pricing

E5 EM-i Aspire – R599,999

E5 EM-i Apex – R679,999

E5 Aspire – R699,999

E5 Apex – R759,999