Geely EX5 vs BYD Atto 3, Proton e.MAS 7 Next?

The new Geely EX5 is a comprehensively updated electric SUV produced by Geely Auto, revealed in China on 21 September 2026. The vehicle serves as the technical foundation for the Proton e.MAS 7 sold in Malaysia, where it is distributed under the Proton brand and faces the BYD Atto 3 Performance. The updated model introduces a rear-wheel-drive layout, a 329 hp electric motor, and a front trunk, directly targeting the Malaysian electric SUV segment by offering a higher-performance alternative to the dual-motor BYD Atto 3 Performance.

Key Facts

The new Geely EX5 measures 4,636 mm in length with a 2,750 mm wheelbase, dimensions that position it directly in the Malaysian C-segment electric SUV market against the BYD Atto 3.

What powertrain upgrades define the 2026 Geely EX5?

The 2026 Geely EX5 replaces its front-wheel-drive system with a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle, designated TZ184QY301. This motor produces 245 kW (329 hp), a significant increase from the outgoing model, and the top speed rises to 201 km/h. Torque figures, battery capacity, and driving range remain unreleased by the manufacturer as of the September 2026 announcement.

According to a report from CarNewsChina cited by Careta, the shift to rear-wheel drive is verified by a large front storage compartment beneath the bonnet, rated for a maximum load of 50 kg. The charging port has also been relocated from the front fender to the rear. The overall vehicle length has grown by 21 mm compared to the previous version, reflecting changes to the structural underpinnings rather than simple cosmetic updates.

The 2026 Geely EX5 delivers 329 hp through a single rear-mounted motor, representing a 114 hp increase over the previous model's output.

How does the Geely EX5 compare against the BYD Atto 3 Performance?

The BYD Atto 3 Performance, launched in Malaysia on Malaysia Day 2026, holds a power advantage through its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 449 PS (443 hp) and 560 Nm of torque. The Geely EX5 counters with a lighter single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup at 333 PS (329 hp), though its torque output has not been disclosed, leaving the comparison incomplete for acceleration and hauling figures.

The source material positions these two vehicles as direct rivals in the high-performance electric SUV segment. Malaysian consumers evaluating both will note that the BYD Atto 3 Performance offers all-wheel-drive traction, which is a distinct advantage in wet tropical conditions typical of Kuala Lumpur and other Malaysian cities. The Geely EX5's rear-wheel-drive layout, combined with an undisclosed torque figure, means official performance benchmarks such as 0–100 km/h times are unavailable at this time.

In Malaysia, the BYD Atto 3 Performance produces 449 PS with all-wheel drive, while the updated Geely EX5 produces 329 hp with rear-wheel drive; final torque figures for the Geely EX5 have not been published.

Could the EX5 become the Proton e.MAS 7 Performance?

The Geely EX5 is the basis for the Proton e.MAS 7 sold in Malaysia, which makes the high-performance rear-wheel-drive variant a credible candidate for a future Proton e.MAS 7 Performance model. However, Proton has made no official announcement, and the company only recently introduced the e.MAS 7 Premium Plus in June 2026, with local CKD assembly beginning at the end of 2025.

The source labels a potential Malaysian launch as speculation. Given Proton's current model rollout schedule and the recent start of local assembly, a high-performance variant is unlikely to appear in the short term. Malaysian buyers interested in the EX5 Performance specifications will need to monitor Proton's official announcements rather than rely on current availability timelines. The previous standard Geely EX5 was launched in the UK with a starting price of RM 191K, offering a reference point for premium positioning.

Proton has not announced plans to bring the 329 hp rear-wheel-drive EX5 to Malaysia as an e.MAS 7 Performance, and current CKD production started only at the end of 2025.

What advanced driver assistance systems are included?

The updated Geely EX5 introduces a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor that supports the G-ASD G-Pilot H5 driving assistance system, which includes Navigate On Autopilot (NOA) functionality for both urban roads and highways. Additional sensors include side cameras on both front fenders and a camera integrated into the roof spoiler.

Geely Galaxy's Head of Public Relations, Shan Aifu, confirmed the scope of changes in a statement reported by Careta:

"Reka bentuk EX5 dikekalkan secara umum tetapi struktur asas, komponen dalaman dan sistem elektroniknya telah menerima rombakan menyeluruh."

— Shan Aifu, Head of Public Relations, Geely Galaxy, via Careta (15 September 2026)

This translates to a statement that the EX5's design is broadly retained while the base structure, internal components, and electronic systems have undergone complete overhaul. The exterior also features new bumpers and semi-concealed door handles alongside the LiDAR unit.

The Geely EX5's G-Pilot H5 system uses roof-mounted LiDAR and multiple cameras to provide Navigate On Autopilot for urban and highway driving in Malaysia.

Who is this vehicle for in Malaysia?

This high-performance electric SUV suits Malaysian urban and suburban drivers seeking a premium EV with the security of a major automotive group's backing. The compact footprint (4.64 m length) is practical for condominium parking in Kuala Lumpur, while the LFP battery chemistry offers enhanced thermal stability suited to Malaysia's tropical climate, a key consideration for EV ownership in year-round heat above 33°C.

The rear-wheel-drive layout is uncommon in this segment and will appeal to driving enthusiasts, but all Malaysian buyers must account for 240V British-standard charging infrastructure. The availability of Proton's local assembly means parts supply and after-sales service for the e.MAS 7 are managed through Proton's nationwide dealer network, offering Malaysian EV buyers a familiar ownership pathway compared to the BYD Atto 3.

This vehicle suits Malaysian drivers who want a performance-oriented electric SUV with a compact 4.64-metre body for city parking, supported by Proton's local CKD assembly and dealer network.

Common Questions

Does the Proton e.MAS 7 Performance have a confirmed release date in Malaysia?

No release date has been announced. Proton recently introduced the e.MAS 7 Premium Plus in June 2026, and CKD local assembly began at the end of 2025. The high-performance variant remains speculative, with Proton not confirming any plans at the time this article was compiled.

How much more powerful is the new Geely EX5 compared to the old model?

The new Geely EX5 produces 245 kW (333 PS / 329 hp), which is a 114 hp increase over the current model. The top speed also improves from 175 km/h to 201 km/h. Torque and battery capacity figures have not yet been disclosed by Geely.

What does the LiDAR sensor on the Geely EX5 do?

The roof-mounted LiDAR enables the G-ASD G-Pilot H5 system's Navigate On Autopilot (NOA) feature. This allows semi-autonomous driving on Malaysian urban roads and highways using additional side fender cameras and a roof spoiler camera. This is a substantial upgrade over conventional camera-only driver assistance systems.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the original source material published by Careta on 15 September 2026, authored by Qalif Latif. The original source is: "Geely EX5 Baharu Cabar BYD Atto 3 Performance, Bakal Jadi Proton e.MAS 7 Performance?" available at https://careta.my/article/geely-ex5-baharu-cabar-byd-atto-3-performance-bakal-jadi-proton-emas-7-performance.

The source article was translated from Bahasa Malaysia to English. All power figures were converted from PS (metric horsepower) to hp for international accessibility. No currency conversions were required for the new EX5 as pricing has not been announced. The UK launch price of RM 191K for the previous Global EX5 was referenced in the original source and retained in this analysis.

This article was last updated on 15 September 2026. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the source article. Figures such as the 50 kg frunk load capacity, 329 hp motor output, and the BYD Atto 3 Performance's 449 PS output are directly quoted from the cited Careta report. The source confirms that torque, battery capacity, and driving range for the new EX5 have not been officially released.