[ĐÁNH GIÁ XE] Geely EX5 EM-i: A “hybrid electric” direction for practical users

Geely EX5 EM-i is one of the new names joining this game in Vietnam, with a quite clear approach: keep the operating experience of an electric vehicle, but eliminate worry about range.

Design and size: Bigger than competitors, aiming for stability

Compared to the pure electric version, the EX5 EM-i has a more sturdy front end, with cut-outs on the front bumper to help the overall look wider and more “sturdy” when viewed from the front. The connected slender LED light cluster creates a modern feeling, but not too sophisticated.

The notable point lies in the size. With a length of 4,725 mm and a wheelbase of 2,755 mm, the EX5 EM-i is larger than most competitors in the same segment such as the Mazda CX-5 or Honda CR-V. In actual use, this “slight improvement” is not only in the parameters, but is clearly shown when sitting in the back seat or storing things for long trips.

However, the car still retains the ability to turn flexibly thanks to a turning radius of 5.2 m – a pretty good number for a C-size car.

Interior: Minimalist but not monotonous

The EX5 EM-i’s cabin follows the familiar minimalist style of electric vehicles, but retains some physical keys for air conditioning – a small detail but of great value during actual use.

The 15.4-inch central screen is where almost all functions are controlled. After a period of getting used to it, this system operates smoothly and responds quickly, without creating an uncomfortable feeling of “dependence” like some overly digitized car models.

The rear seats are where the advantage of the 2,755 mm wheelbase is clearly shown. When actually sitting, ample leg room, long seat cushions and large recline help passengers “relax” on long trips. This is an easy-to-recognize difference when compared to the Mazda CX-5 – a car model with relatively upright and less flexible rear seats.

Urban experience: Smooth and easy to get used to

In urban environments, the EX5 EM-i operates almost like a pure electric vehicle. In Pure mode, the car moves entirely by electric motor, providing smoothness and almost no accelerator delay.

Moving in crowded streets becomes easier, especially when you need to move little by little during rush hour. The steering wheel is light, easy to control, combined with the steering assistance system to significantly reduce pressure on the driver.

The ground clearance of 172 mm is enough for the car to handle light climbing situations or go through shallow flooded roads – something that many sedans or hatchbacks cannot do.

Driving assistance systems such as 540-degree cameras and blind spot warnings are clearly effective in urban environments. Situations like turning around in narrow alleys or backing into parking lots become much simpler.

Road and highway: The strength of the hybrid powertrain

When taking the car to the highway, the combination of gasoline engine and electric motor begins to clearly play its role. Total capacity of 219 horsepower and 398 Nm of torque helps the car accelerate smoothly and with enough power in overtaking situations.

There is no feeling of “drowning” like some economical hybrid models. At a speed range of 80 – 120 km/h, the car still maintains stable traction, making overtaking safer.

The multi-link rear suspension system provides good body stability when driving fast. When cornering or changing lanes at high speed, the car remains solid, with no obvious floating phenomenon.

A notable point is the “silence” in the cabin. Even when the gasoline engine intervenes, vibration and noise levels are well controlled, without disrupting the overall experience.