It's already been over a year since Geely Philippines launched its contender against the BYD Atto 3, the EX5. They then followed that up with the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version called the EX5 EM-i. In fact, you can read what we think about the EX5 EM-i Max.

But what about the EX5 EV? Well, Geely appears to be preparing to launch the facelifted version soon, as China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) recently released the first photos (and initial specifications) of the updated crossover.

Based on a couple of pictures released by the MIIT, the refreshed Geely EX5 EV gets a redesigned front bumper that features a new blacked-out design element. It also gets new door handles, which do away with the current flush door handles. Perhaps this is to meet China's upcoming ban on hidden door handles. Also new are multi-spoke alloy wheels, which could replace the two-tone alloy wheels the EX5 EV currently uses.

But what really caught our attention with the refreshed EX5 EV is the adoption of a RWD layout. Currently, the EX5 EV makes use of a FWD electric motor. But with the updated EX5 EV now sporting a frunk and a rear charging port, it looks like the EX5 EV is indeed going RWD.

Besides getting a new drive layout, the EX5 EV will get a huge bump in power. Based on initial specifications released by the MIIT, the refreshed EX5 EV will get a more powerful rear electric motor that produces 245 kW (or 333 PS). In comparison, the current FWD EX5 EV's electric motor puts out 217 PS, which is 116 PS less than what the updated model will get.

Its top speed has also gone up to 201 km/h versus the current EV's 175 km/h top speed. The battery size of the updated EV has yet to be revealed, but they did mention that it will be a lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) unit. We won't be surprised if it will get a slightly bigger capacity to offset the more powerful electric motor. Size-wise, the refreshed EX5 EV measures 4639mm long, 1920mm wide, and 1670mm tall on a 2750mm wheelbase.

With Geely set to launch the refreshed EX5 on September 21, 2026, we're keep our eyes peeled for more info closer to launch. We're also curious if Geely plans to bring the upgraded EX5 EV to the Philippines.