The Geely Coolray aims to balance driver engagement with daily practicality, while bringing impressive perceived quality and a high level of standard equipment at a competitive price…
What are we driving and why is it significant?
The Geely Coolray is a sub-compact crossover aimed at filling the void left by the “boy-racer” sub-compact hatchback and crossover. Just over a decade ago, if you were in the market for a B-segment hatch that could hit 0-100 km/h in under eight seconds without compromising usability and fuel efficiency, you were spoiled for choice. With the local discontinuation of models such as the Ford Fiesta ST, Renault Clio RS, and Opel Corsa OPC, this segment has left a significant void. The Geely Coolray aims to fill this gap, bringing a punchy turbocharged engine, boy racer-inspired exterior details, and an extensive list of standard features.
Characterful exterior design with thoughtful interior execution
Visually, Geely’s new entrant in the crossover segment leans into a sporty aesthetic with sharp angles across the front fascia, complemented by distinctive LED headlamps with L-shaped daytime-running lights. The rear continues this theme with Advanced LED taillamps, a dual-section lower diffuser separated by a trapezoidal foglamp, and a roof-mounted spoiler. The Vanguard includes a more prominent spoiler sporting faux carbon-fibre weaving and ‘S’ insignias on the sides.
All variants come standard with 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment, replete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an 8.88-inch digital instrument cluster. The base model features a four-speaker audio system, while the mid-range and flagship derivatives are equipped with a six-speaker setup. All models benefit from dual-zone climate control with dedicated rear air vents. The Vanguard makes its flagship status clear with a six-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, perforated leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and an electrically operated tailgate.
Good perceived quality and a functional interior layout
Perceived quality is where the Coolray’s interior shines bright. The Vanguard’s two-tone perforated leather upholstery, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, and brushed aluminium physical switches and door handles are high-quality touchpoints that feel satisfying to use. The dashboard didn’t elicit loud creaks or rattles, even when pressing hard against the plastic surfaces.
The Coolray prioritises practicality, with comprehensive storage found beneath the leather-wrapped armrest and centre console, plus bottle holders in the door cards. The Vanguard also benefits from a sunglass holder in the ceiling. A conventional glove compartment and 330-litre (claimed) boot act as the main storage compartments.
Tech is the main theme of the Coolray’s user experience. The dash-mounted central screen runs a custom Android-based operating system, offering responsive inputs, fast processing, and fuss-free usability. A wireless smartphone charger and three USB ports located at the front and rear keep your devices charged while on the go.
The Coolray’s impressive sound insulation and safety standards
The Coolray’s NVH levels cater to those who value silence. Despite its sporty appearance, the Chinese compact crossover does an impressive job of keeping things quiet at low speeds and on the highway. This can feel underwhelming when you drive more enthusiastically. Even in Sport mode, the engine’s aural presence remains minimal, so wind and tyre noise may be louder than the powertrain.
The Coolray also comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including collision detection and mitigation, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. While practical, the system can feel intrusive. The lane-keep assist function showed inconsistencies on some of the wavier stretches of our launch route. The Geely’s ADAS worked best on highways.
What does the Geely Coolray cost?
The Geely Coolray is available in three trims, namely Nova, Vanguard, and the flagship Vertex, with pricing ranging from R369 900 to R429 900. All trims include five-year/150 000 km vehicle and engine warranties, together with a five-year/50 000 km service plan and five-year/unlimited km 24/7 roadside assistance via the complimentary Geely Care package.
What are the Geely Coolray’s rivals?
While the Coolray is somewhat of a unique proposition, other Chinese brands have already executed a similar concept. The more competitively priced Omoda C5 makes for a viable rival. It also features a turbocharged 1.5-litre, four-cylinder engine, but its CVT and lower power output work against it. The GAC GS3 Emzoom is another warm crossover, with a higher output, 130 kW turbocharged 1.5-litre, four-cylinder engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
What is the Geely Coolray like to drive?
Beneath the bonnet, you’ll find a turbocharged 1.5-litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 128 kW at 5 500 r/min and 290 N.m from 2 000-3 500 r/min, sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Based on Geely’s claims, you can expect this model to reach 0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds, before topping out at 200 km/h. The firm also claims an average fuel consumption of 6.5 L/100 km on the combined cycle.
Geely offers four driving modes for the Coolray: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Adaptive. These adjust the crossover’s acceleration mapping, shift points, electric power steering, and the digital instrument cluster display. In Adaptive mode, the Coolray delivers punchy performance from its compact engine, with the turbocharger’s spool time kept to a minimum when you suddenly depress the throttle. The dual-clutch transmission shows a hint of hesitation when changing acceleration, forcing the engine to hang onto lower gears before shifting up. The Coolray’s ride offers reasonable comfort in urban settings, but bumps and surface inconsistencies are fairly noticeable owing to the Vanguard’s larger, 18-inch wheel option and simpler suspension layout.
Thankfully, the Coolray’s Sport mode resolves this issue by changing the transmission mapping to be more responsive to throttle inputs. The stiffened steering also lets you make the most of the compact crossover’s MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension. GitiComfort tyres supply sufficient surface contact, accentuating impressive levels of grip under hard cornering. Considering it features an open front differential and no independent rear suspension, together with a 161 mm ground clearance, don’t expect cornering levels akin to the Honda Civic Type R. Keeping the Coolray within its physical limits returns an enjoyable and engaging driving experience that should translate to a couple of smiles through a tight set of corners. Paddle shifters to manually control the dual-clutch transmission would have been a welcome addition and provided a more involved driving experience.
Verdict
As Chinese crossovers and SUVs start to blend into one another, individuality in the industry is becoming rarer. The Geely Coolray enters as a refreshing option that doesn’t lose touch with practical comfort and usability, while still offering a level of presence and character that appeals to consumers who want a sporty experience but don’t have the means to spend close to R600 000 on a fully fledged European option.
Geely Coolray specifications
- Price: R 369 900
- Powertrain: 1.5-litre, four-cylinder, turbopetrol
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
- Driven wheels: front
- Power: 128 kW @ 5 500 r/min
- Torque: 290 N.m @ 2 000-3 500 r/min
- Fuel consumption: 6.5 L/100 km (claimed)
