When automakers introduce a facelift, the changes are usually easy to spot. New headlights, revised bumpers, updated wheels, and perhaps a few technology upgrades inside the cabin are often enough to keep a model fresh. But Geely may be preparing something far more substantial for the EX5 electric crossover.
Recent regulatory filings in China, as reported by British media outlet Auto Express, suggest that an updated version of the EX5 could adopt a rear-wheel-drive layout. If confirmed, it would mark a significant departure from the current model, which uses a front-mounted electric motor driving the front wheels. This may sound like a technical detail, but drivetrain layouts can have a noticeable effect on how a vehicle behaves on the road.
Front-wheel drive has become the default choice for many mainstream crossovers because it is efficient, practical, and cost-effective. It also delivers predictable handling that most drivers are familiar with. The current EX5 follows this formula, positioning itself as a family-friendly electric SUV designed for everyday use.
Rear-wheel drive brings a different approach. By sending power to the rear axle while the front wheels focus on steering, vehicles often achieve a more balanced driving feel. In electric vehicles, where torque is available almost instantly, rear-wheel drive can also improve traction during acceleration. That is what makes this development particularly interesting.
The EX5 has never been marketed as a performance-focused EV. Instead, it has built its reputation around practicality, technology, and value. A shift to rear-wheel drive could give the model a distinct character while helping it stand out in an increasingly crowded electric crossover segment.
The reported update also highlights the versatility of modern EV platforms. Dedicated electric architectures are typically designed to support different motor configurations, allowing manufacturers to introduce new variants without starting from scratch.
For now, however, buyers should manage expectations. The rear-wheel-drive version has not been officially announced, and there is no confirmation that it will be offered outside China. Markets such as the Philippines may continue receiving the existing front-wheel-drive configuration until further details emerge. Even so, the possibility is worth watching.
Autocar’s Take
The possibility of a rear-wheel-drive Geely EX5 is intriguing because it suggests the brand is looking beyond the usual facelift formula. Most mid-cycle updates focus on styling and technology, but a drivetrain change could have a much bigger impact on the driving experience. While the EX5 has always been positioned as a practical electric crossover, a rear-wheel-drive setup may give it a more engaging character without sacrificing everyday usability. Of course, much remains unconfirmed, especially for export markets. Still, it’s an interesting development — something to watch out for.
