Geely EX5 vs Subaru Forester
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
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 Subaru Forester opens at $43,490. That makes the Geely EX5 the more affordable entry point by $1,500.
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 $47,839 respectively.
The Geely EX5 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Subaru Forester, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Geely EX5 and Subaru Forester 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 4 in the Subaru Forester.
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 9 in the Subaru Forester. The Geely EX5 adds a 360-degree camera that the Subaru Forester misses.
Feature Showdown
The Geely EX5 features a 15.4-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.2-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Forester gets a 11.6-inch display and 4.2-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Geely EX5 stands out with wireless charging, heated front seats and V2L that you will not find on the Subaru Forester. 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 6.9 seconds.
The Subaru Forester responds with a Petrol making 136kW and 226Nm, paired to a cvt driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 11.2 seconds.
The Geely EX5 has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 136kW. In the real-world sprint, the Geely EX5 is 4.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Geely EX5 measures 4,615mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 40mm shorter than the Subaru Forester at 4,655mm (2,670mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Geely EX5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 302L in the Geely EX5 and 520L in the Subaru Forester, giving the Subaru Forester a 218L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 10.8m
Based on 10.8m 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 Geely EX5 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Geely's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Forester if: You need more boot space, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Geely EX5 takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester?
The Geely EX5 is the cheapest at $41,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Subaru Forester by $1,500.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Subaru Forester uses the least fuel at 7.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Geely EX5 and Subaru Forester all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Subaru Forester has the largest boot at 520L.
Which can tow the most?
The Subaru Forester 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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