Geely EX5 vs BYD Atto 3
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 Geely EX5 starts from $41,990 before on-road costs, while the BYD Atto 3 opens at $39,990. 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 $46,189 and $43,989 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 Geely EX5 and BYD Atto 3 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 Geely EX5 and 7 in the BYD Atto 3. The Geely EX5 adds a 360-degree camera that the BYD Atto 3 misses.
Feature Showdown
The Geely EX5 features a 15.4-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.2-inch digital dash, while the BYD Atto 3 gets a 12.8-inch display and 5-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Geely EX5 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, heated front seats and V2L that you will not find on the BYD Atto 3. The BYD Atto 3 counters with Apple CarPlay and Dirac audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Geely EX5 runs a pure electric powertrain producing 160kW and 320Nm of torque, sent through its transmission to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.4 seconds.
The BYD Atto 3 responds with a Electric making 150kW and 310Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds.
The Geely EX5 has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 150kW. In the real-world sprint, the BYD Atto 3 is 0.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 68.4kWh (Geely EX5) vs 49.9kWh (BYD Atto 3), giving WLTP ranges of 475km and 345km. DC fast charging peaks at 100kW (Geely EX5) vs 80kW (BYD Atto 3).
Space & Comfort
The Geely EX5 measures 4,615mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 160mm longer than the BYD Atto 3 at 4,455mm (2,720mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Geely EX5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 302L in the Geely EX5 and 440L in the BYD Atto 3, 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 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m 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 Geely EX5 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Geely's approach to design and ownership experience.
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.
The Verdict
The Geely EX5 takes 5 of 8 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, Geely EX5 and BYD Atto 3?
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 475km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Geely EX5 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 100kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Geely EX5 and BYD Atto 3 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 BYD Atto 3 is quickest to 100km/h in 7.3s.
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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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