Who would have thought Chinese automakers would take so little time to conquer the Brazilian EV market? The arrival of the Geely EX2 Max marks a turning point — a stylish, well-equipped, and surprisingly affordable electric hatchback that competes directly with the BYD Dolphin and Dolphin Mini.
Geely, now partnering with Renault to reinforce its brand credibility in Brazil, brings a new contender that’s priced to attract not only EV enthusiasts but also traditional compact car owners.
With a price tag of $23,800, the EX2 Max undercuts the BYD Dolphin GS (around $26,500) and even offers a more affordable version, the EX2 Pro, at $21,000.
But is it truly ready to take on popular combustion hatchbacks like the Chevrolet Onix, Hyundai HB20, and VW Polo? Let’s dive in.
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CLICK HERE⚙️ Powertrain, Battery, and Performance
| Specification | Geely EX2 Max | BYD Dolphin GS |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 116 hp | 95 hp |
| Torque | 15.3 kgfm (113 lb-ft) | 13.8 kgfm (101 lb-ft) |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Battery | 40.2 kWh (LFP) | 44.9 kWh (LFP) |
| Range (Inmetro) | 289 km (180 mi) | 291 km (181 mi) |
| City Range (tested) | 386 km (240 mi) | ~330 km (205 mi) |
| Charging (AC/DC) | 6.6 kW / 70 kW | 6.6 kW / 60 kW |
| Weight | 1,300 kg (2,866 lb) | 1,405 kg (3,097 lb) |
💡 Key Takeaway:
The rear-wheel drive layout gives the EX2 Max a livelier, more balanced driving experience, while its efficient battery setup delivers urban range above expectations.
🧩 Platform and Engineering
The EX2 Max rides on Geely’s GEA platform, a modern architecture designed for electric and hybrid vehicles. It integrates AI, software connectivity, and electrification in a compact, efficient package.
The rear-mounted motor helps with traction and weight distribution, while the multilink rear suspension—rare in this price range—enhances comfort and handling.
📏 Dimensions:
- Length: 4,135 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,650 mm
- Weight: 1,300 kg
Its relatively low weight and aerodynamic shape make it especially efficient in city driving.
✨ Exterior Design: Cute, Smart, and Urban
At first glance, the EX2 Max is charming. The “smiling” front design, flush door handles, and sleek C-pillar details give it a futuristic vibe.
The car’s proportions make it look modern and agile, ready to blend into urban landscapes while hinting at its high-tech DNA.
🏙️ Interior: Minimalist, Yet Playful
Inside, Geely balances cost-cutting with creativity. The cabin features hard plastics but gains life from LED accents that simulate city skylines across the doors and dashboard — a playful touch in a minimalist environment.
🖥️ Tech Highlights:
- 8.8” digital instrument cluster with ADAS display
- 14.6” multimedia screen (manages driving modes, regeneration, climate)
- No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (yet) – OTA update promised soon
- Keyless entry, no start button – it “wakes up” automatically
While functional, some design quirks remind us it’s a budget car — like the turn signal stalk straight from the 1990s and lack of steering wheel depth adjustment.
Still, the ADAS buttons, leather trim, and good visibility elevate the driving experience.
🏎️ Driving Experience
Even with “only” 116 hp, the EX2 Max feels lively thanks to instant torque and RWD. In urban traffic, it easily outpaces many combustion rivals.
✅ Pros:
- Smooth and quiet acceleration
- Balanced handling due to RWD
- Firm suspension (no excessive body roll)
- Excellent steering angle for tight maneuvers
⚠️ Cons:
- Artificial steering feel at high speed
- Slightly noisy bushings over potholes
- No “automatic” climate mode
Despite these minor drawbacks, the ride comfort and light steering make it perfect for city dwellers.
🔋 Battery, Range, and Charging
The 40.2 kWh LFP battery (39.4 kWh usable) supports 6.6 kW AC and 70 kW DC charging.
- Inmetro Range: 289 km (180 mi)
- City Test Range: 386 km (240 mi)
- Real Urban Efficiency: 9.8 km/kWh
Charging to 80% on a DC fast charger takes about 35 minutes, while a full charge on AC (home) takes around 6 hours.
🧠 Pro Tip: Like most compact EVs, it loses some efficiency on highways — best suited for city commuting.
👨👩👧 Comfort and Space
The EX2 Max feels larger inside than it looks.
- Wheelbase: 2,650 mm
- Trunk: 375 L + 70 L front trunk (“frunk”)
- Flat rear floor for comfort
- Rear AC vents for passengers
Storage under the rear seats and clever use of space make it more practical than many gasoline hatchbacks.
🛡️ Safety and ADAS
Even at this price, the EX2 Max includes a complete ADAS package — rare among compact EVs.
✅ ADAS Features Include:
- Collision warning + automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Automatic high beams
- Adaptive cruise control
These safety aids, combined with the car’s balanced design, make it ideal for first-time EV buyers.
💰 Pricing and Market Position
| Model | Price (USD) | Main Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Geely EX2 Pro | $21,000 | Simplified trim, still well-equipped |
| Geely EX2 Max | $23,800 | Full ADAS, premium features |
| BYD Dolphin GS | $26,500 | Slightly bigger battery, front-wheel drive |
The EX2 Max’s Renault-backed service network adds confidence for buyers concerned about maintenance and parts availability — a key advantage over some newer Chinese brands.
🔍 Verdict
The Geely EX2 Max might not be perfect — the absence of smartphone mirroring and some cost-cutting inside show its price-conscious nature — but it nails what truly matters:
✅ Great price-to-equipment ratio
✅ Real-world efficiency beyond expectations
✅ Rear-wheel drive dynamics
✅ Strong ADAS suite
✅ Practical and comfortable for families
💬 Bottom line:
The Geely EX2 Max isn’t just another cheap EV — it’s a well-rounded, affordable electric hatchback that challenges the BYD Dolphin where it hurts most: value for money.
With Renault’s support and upcoming OTA updates, the EX2 Max is poised to spark the next wave of EV adoption in Brazil and beyond. 🌎⚡
🔋 Summary Table
| Aspect | Geely EX2 Max | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$23,800 | Affordable EV for compact segment |
| Range (real-world) | Up to 386 km (240 mi) | Exceeds official rating |
| Performance | 116 hp / RWD | Quick city response |
| Safety | Full ADAS suite | Advanced for its price |
| Charging | 70 kW DC / 6.6 kW AC | Fast and convenient |
| Interior | LED accents, large screen | Stylish but minimalistic |
| Network | Renault partnership | Better service confidence |
🗞️ Final Verdict:
“With the EX2 Max, Geely shows that electric mobility doesn’t have to be a luxury. It’s smart, safe, efficient — and above all, attainable.” 🚙💨
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