The Geely EX5 is getting a surprisingly deep update in China. What looks like a minor facelift at first is a clear step up underneath: more power, a change of drive layout, new driver assistance with LiDAR – and, of all things, a step back to classic door handles. Here’s what we know, and what actually matters for Thailand.
218 becomes 333 hp – and the motor moves to the rear
The biggest change is in the drivetrain. Instead of the previous 218 hp (160 kW), the updated EX5 now makes 333 hp (245 kW). At the same time Geely switches from front- to rear-wheel drive and moves the charging port to the rear. In practice this is said to cut the 0–100 km/h sprint from around 6.9 to roughly 5 seconds – a noticeable everyday difference, not just a spec-sheet number.
The update at a glance
- Power: 218 → 333 hp (160 → 245 kW)
- Drive: switches from front- to rear-wheel drive
- Speed: 0–100 km/h in about 5 instead of 6.9 seconds
- Assistance: roof-mounted LiDAR, G-Pilot H5 system (China for now)
- Door handles: back to classic pull handles
Why the flush door handles are disappearing
Flush, pop-out door handles were long seen as a sleek EV detail. China is reining them in from 2027: for safety reasons such handles are being regulated, because they can jam in a crash or power failure and make rescue harder. The updated EX5 therefore returns to conventional pull handles – not a cost-cutting downgrade, but a deliberate safety choice.
LiDAR and new driver assistance
A compact LiDAR sensor now sits on the roof, joined by camera modules behind the front wheel arches. With this, Geely equips the EX5 for its extended G-Pilot H5 assistance system. At launch this level stays limited to China for now. For other markets it’s unclear how much of the hardware will carry over.
What does this mean for Thailand?
Important context: these updates have so far been shown in China. In Thailand the current EX5 is on sale – with front-wheel drive and around 218 hp. Whether and when the more powerful rear-wheel-drive model with LiDAR reaches Thailand has not been confirmed by Geely. Thai versions typically follow the Chinese ones with some delay and partly adapted equipment. We’re keeping an eye on it and will report as soon as there’s anything concrete for the Thai market.
Frequently asked questions
How much power does the new Geely EX5 have?
The model updated in China makes 333 hp (245 kW) – considerably more than the previous 218 hp (160 kW).
Will the EX5 in Thailand get this facelift?
Not confirmed yet. The current EX5 is what’s on sale in Thailand today. Whether the stronger update follows is open – we’ll report as soon as Geely Thailand says anything.
Why does the new EX5 have different door handles?
China is regulating flush pop-out door handles from 2027 on safety grounds. That’s why the EX5 returns to classic pull handles.
Does the updated EX5 have LiDAR?
Yes. A roof-mounted LiDAR sensor supports the G-Pilot H5 assistance system – in China to start with.
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Details refer to the China model, as of June 2026; Thai market launch and specification not confirmed. Independent, unofficial channel – not affiliated with Geely Auto.
