BYD Atto 3 vs Geely EX5
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BYD Atto 3 starts from $39,990 before on-road costs, while the Geely EX5 opens at $41,990. That makes the BYD Atto 3 the more affordable entry point by $2,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $43,989 and $46,189 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the BYD Atto 3 and Geely EX5 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Geely EX5 packs more ADAS features with 8 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 6 in the BYD Atto 3.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the BYD Atto 3 and 7 in the Geely EX5. The Geely EX5 adds a 360-degree camera that the BYD Atto 3 misses.
Feature Showdown
The BYD Atto 3 features a 12.8-inch touchscreen paired with a 5-inch digital dash, while the Geely EX5 gets a 15.4-inch display and 10.2-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BYD Atto 3 stands out with Apple CarPlay and Dirac audio that you will not find on the Geely EX5. The Geely EX5 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, heated front seats and V2L. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BYD Atto 3 uses a Electric producing 150kW and 310Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds.
The Geely EX5 counters with its electric setup making 160kW and 320Nm, paired to its gearbox driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.9 seconds.
The Geely EX5 has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the Geely EX5 is 0.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 49.9kWh (BYD Atto 3) vs 60.2kWh (Geely EX5). DC fast charging peaks at 80kW (BYD Atto 3) vs 100kW (Geely EX5).
Space & Comfort
The BYD Atto 3 measures 4,455mm long on a 2,720mm wheelbase, 160mm shorter than the Geely EX5 at 4,615mm (2,750mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Geely EX5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 440L in the BYD Atto 3 and 302L in the Geely EX5, giving the BYD Atto 3 a 138L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 11.0m
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BYD Atto 3 if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Geely EX5 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Geely's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Geely EX5 takes 5 of 7 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the BYD Atto 3 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BYD Atto 3 and Geely EX5?
The BYD Atto 3 is the cheapest at $39,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Geely EX5 by $2,000.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Geely EX5 has the most range at 430km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Geely EX5 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 100kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BYD Atto 3 and Geely EX5 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The BYD Atto 3 has the largest boot at 440L.
Which can tow the most?
The BYD Atto 3 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Geely EX5 makes the most power at 160kW. The Geely EX5 is quickest to 100km/h in 6.9s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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