Geely’s UAE distributor, AGMC, has launched the Monjaro EM-i plug-in hybrid SUV from AED 130,900. With a 29.8 kWh battery and up to 116 km of quoted WLTP electric range, it offers family buyers a large battery and a long claimed electric range at a mid-market price.
What does the Monjaro EM-i cost?
AGMC, Geely’s official distributor in the UAE, has opened pre-orders for the five-seat SUV. Buyers can choose from four trim levels. The entry-level MAX FWD starts at AED 130,900. Next comes the ULTRA AWD at AED 146,900, followed by the ULTRA Plus AWD at AED 148,900. Finally, the Special Edition tops the range at AED 149,900.
Meanwhile, AGMC’s launch offer includes complimentary window tinting. It also adds 8-year or 200,000 km coverage for the power battery, driving motor and motor controller. That should reassure buyers who plan to keep the car for a long time.
How far can it go on electricity alone?
The Monjaro EM-i pairs a 1.5TD petrol engine with Geely’s EM-i Super Hybrid system. Power reaches the wheels through a three-speed dedicated hybrid transmission. Its battery holds 29.8 kWh, which is a generous size for a plug-in hybrid.
According to Geely’s published WLTP figures, the SUV can cover up to 116 km on electricity alone. Combined range with the petrol engine reaches up to 922 km, depending on configuration. These are manufacturer figures, so real-world results will vary with speed, temperature and air-conditioning use. Geely also quotes fuel consumption of 41.7 km per litre. Again, that’s a manufacturer estimate.
When it comes to topping up, fast charging takes the battery from 30 to 80 per cent in 15 minutes. However, the launch details don’t state the peak charging power. As a result, it’s hard to say what kind of charger buyers will need to match that time.
How much performance does the AWD version offer?
Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions are on sale. The AWD car produces up to 330 hp and 667 Nm of torque. Geely quotes 0 to 100 km/h in 5.83 seconds, which is brisk for a family SUV.
Additionally, continuous damping control adjusts the suspension every 20 milliseconds. Drivers can switch between Comfort, Standard and Sport modes. The braking system uses an integrated Bosch One Box unit. Geely says it sharpens braking response and limits pitch when the driver brakes hard.
How practical is the cabin?
The SUV measures 4,800 mm long and rides on a 2,845 mm wheelbase. Behind the second row, there’s 633 litres of boot space. With the rear seats folded, that grows to 2,183 litres. Moreover, Geely has fitted a full-size spare tyre under the floor without cutting boot volume. The front passenger seat also folds completely flat, so owners can carry items up to 2.8 metres long.
Up front, the 11-layer seats offer acupressure massage, heating, ventilation and two-position memory. The car can also power external devices through a 6.6 kW vehicle-to-load output. In addition, there are 12V outlets in the front cabin and the boot.
Outside, a vertical grille pairs with blue light signatures. At the rear, a full-width light bar uses 175 LEDs. Geely says it’s visible from up to 300 metres away.
What technology and safety kit comes as standard?
Inside, a 15.4-inch central touchscreen runs Flyme Auto software. The driver gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 25.6-inch augmented-reality head-up display. Meanwhile, a 16-speaker sound system includes speakers built into the driver’s headrest.
On the safety side, there are 17 driver-assistance functions. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and autonomous emergency braking. The passenger cell uses ultra-high-strength steel for added protection in severe crashes and rollovers. Furthermore, Geely’s battery safety system adds structural and thermal protection for the high-voltage pack.
Who is the Monjaro EM-i likely to suit?
The Monjaro EM-i enters a crowded segment that already includes several Chinese petrol and plug-in hybrid SUVs. Even so, its battery size and AWD output give it competitive headline numbers. Its large boot and five-seat layout should also appeal to families.
For drivers who can charge regularly, the electric range could cover many daily journeys without burning petrol. On longer trips, the petrol engine removes any worry about finding a charger. Ultimately, though, real-world range will decide its appeal. Independent testing will show how close it gets to Geely’s figures.
