2023 Geely Preface could take on Altis or even the Camry

Geely is on a roll. Locally, the Chinese brand has found success in the market with its compact SUVs and MPVs. The Coolray, Azkarra, and Okavango are leading the charge, while the recently introduced Emgrand is already making an impact.

The compact sedan already going up against the likes of the Toyota Vios, Nissan Almera, and the MG5. This shows the local market that the Chinese car maker can diversify its lineup and compete in other car segments. 

Globally though, Geely has been making bigger waves. Their outdoor brand Radar has recently released a pick-up truck called the RD6 which was well-received as it actually is the brand's first foray into the (electric) pick-up segment. If Geely decides to bring the truck to our streets, price it well, and probably put in a mild hybrid engine system, this will cover another segment the Chinese brand can compete in. 

Currently, Geely does not have a model in the local mid-sized sedan segment as the market prefers to buy SUVs, trucks, and crossovers. But there are still a select few who still are in these more luxurious and spacious sedans, and are willing to spend. 

Enter the recently released 2023 Geely Xingrui or Preface in other global markets. The Preface is set to be positioned as a compact A+ class car in China. The latest version will have a length of 4785 mm, a width of 1869 mm, a height of 1469 mm, and a wheelbase of 2800 millimeters.

It will have that signature Geely grille like the Emgrand and the same long and narrow headlights. The exterior will remain virtually the same as the previous model except for the foglight housing. You can now find chrome accents there. The rear will still have the faux exhaust with the base model having only a single pipe tucked behind the rear bumper while the higher-end model will have twin-exhaust pipes. From the side, the body line will remain the same simple and slender layout. 

The car is powered by a 2.0T engine mated to a 7-speed DCT. It will produce 188 PS and 300 Nm of torque and can hit a top speed of 210 km/h. 0-100 comes in at 7.9 seconds. 

The interior will be a mix and match of suede and some leather. Blue stitching will be available too for sportiness. Front and rear parking sensors as well as a 360-degree camera will be standard. The sedan will feature Geely’s level 2 driving assistance system which will include adaptive cruise control, autonomous parking, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and hill assist.

Both the instrument panel and infotainment will be digital while there will still be toggle switches for the climate control. Other functions include keyless entry, remote start, voice recognition, OTA upgrades, and power seats for the driver and front passenger. 

Should Geely decide to bring this here, it could go up against the compact and midsize sedan segment stalwarts like the Corolla Altis or even the Camry if priced right.