BYD Dolphin (2023) vs Geely EX5 EM-i Max (2026)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of BYD Dolphin (2023) vs Geely EX5 EM-i Max (2026) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | BYD Dolphin (2023) BYD ₱1,438,000 | Geely EX5 EM-i Max (2026) Geely ₱1,468,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2023 | 2026 |
| Warranty | 6-years/150,000km | — |
| Availability | Current | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Electric Motor | Inline-4 |
| Fuel Type | Electric | PHEV |
| Max Power | 95 PS | 99 PS |
| Max Torque | 180 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Transmission | Single Speed | 1DHT Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Displacement | — | 1498cc |
| Valvetrain | — | 16-Valve |
| Aspiration | — | Naturally Aspirated |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | Hatchback | Midsize Crossover SUV |
| Segment | Hatchback | Crossover |
| Construction | Unibody | Unibody |
| Exterior Colors | Urban Grey, Cream White | Alpine White, Coudveil Silver, Volcanic Grey, Polar Black, Glacier Blue, Jungle Green |
| Doors | 5 | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2+3 | 5 |
| Length (mm) | 4125 | 4740 |
| Width (mm) | 1770 | 1905 |
| Height (mm) | 1570 | 1685 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2700 | 2755 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1405 | 1770 |
| Fuel Tank (L) | — | 51 |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut w/ Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam | Multi-Link |
| Front Wheels | 16" alloy | 19 Alloys |
| Rear Wheels | 16" alloy | 19 Alloy |
| Front Tires | 195/60/R16 | 245/45R19 |
| Rear Tires | 195/60/R16 | 245/45 R19 |
| Front Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Steering Type | EPS | EPS |
| Steering Column | Tilt + Telescopic | Tilt |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | Yes | — |
| Differential Lock | No | — |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Stability Control | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | Yes | Yes |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | No | — |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | — |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | — |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | — |
| Hill Descent Control | No | — |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | — |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | No | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | Yes |
| Front Curtain Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Side Airbags | Yes | — |
| Engine Immobilizer | Yes | Yes |
| Security Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | Central Locking |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Automatic Climate Control | Automatic Climate Control |
| Rear A/C Vents | No | — |
| Seat Material | Leather | Fabric |
| Parking Brake | EPB | EPB |
| Key Type | Keyless Entry | Keyless |
| Push-Button Start | No | Yes |
| Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | — |
| Paddle Shifters | No | — |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | No | — |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Power Seats | No | — |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | — |
| Eco Mode | No | — |
| Antenna | yes | — |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Speakers | 6 | 6 |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation | No | — |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Android Auto | No | Yes |
| USB | Yes | — |
| AUX Input | No | — |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| CD Player | No | — |
| DVD Player | No | — |
| MP3 Playback | No | — |
| iPod Support | No | — |
| SD Card Slot | No | — |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | LED | LED |
| Fog Lights | No | — |
| Daytime Running Lights | Yes | — |
BYD Dolphin (2023) vs Geely EX5 EM-i Max (2026): which should you buy?
For a Filipino buyer weighing price, power and practicality, the BYD Dolphin edges out the Geely EX5 EM‑i Max for city‑centric use while the Geely suits those needing extra space. The Dolphin is slightly cheaper at ₱1,438,000 versus ₱1,468,000 and packs a higher torque figure (180 Nm vs 125 Nm), giving smoother low‑speed acceleration ideal for stop‑and‑go traffic. Its compact hatchback dimensions (4,125 mm L) make parking in tight Manila streets easier, and the 5‑door layout still offers a 2+3 seating arrangement for small families. However, it is a pure electric vehicle, so charging infrastructure must be considered. The Geely EX5 EM‑i Max, a midsize crossover SUV at 4,740 mm long, provides more interior room for five passengers and a higher roofline, appealing to buyers who prioritize cabin space and a higher driving position. Its PHEM powertrain delivers 99 PS, marginally more peak power than the Dolphin’s 95 PS, but lower torque and a higher price. Both carry a 6‑year/150,000 km warranty and front‑wheel drive. Choose the Dolphin if you value lower cost, tighter dimensions and higher torque for urban commuting; opt for the Geely if you need SUV practicality and extra passenger space despite the price premium.
Frequently asked questions
Which model is cheaper?
The BYD Dolphin is priced at ₱1,438,000, which is ₱30,000 less than the Geely EX5 EM‑i Max at ₱1,468,000.
Which vehicle offers more power?
The Geely EX5 EM‑i Max produces 99 PS, slightly higher than the Dolphin’s 95 PS, though the Dolphin has greater torque (180 Nm vs 125 Nm).
What are the size and practicality differences?
The Dolphin is a compact hatchback (4,125 mm L, 1,770 mm W, 1,570 mm H) with 5 seats in a 2+3 layout, while the Geely is a midsize crossover SUV (4,740 mm L) offering more interior space and a higher seating position for five passengers.
Is there a difference in drivetrain or transmission?
Both models are front‑wheel{drive} and use a single‑speed transmission for the electric Dolphin and a 1‑DHT automatic for the Geely, reflecting their electric versus plug‑in hybrid powertrains.