Geely Jiaji Global MPV Unveiled, The Future Of The Proton Exora?

Geely’s all-new MPV, named Jiaji (嘉际), has just been unveiled by the company.

The company continues to incorporate the expanding cosmos grille theme with wide lower grille design elements at the front of the Jiaji. Meanwhile, the rear quarter profile is set apart by the gloss black pillar for a floating-roof look.

Geely is offering three powertrains in the new Jiaji, ranging from a pure petrol combustion engine to a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

The PHEV powertrain - a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine combined with an electric motor drawing energy from a large 11.3 kWh lithium-ion battery - will be the high-technology bearer for the Jiaji. The combined system output is rated at 258 hp while returning a remarkable fuel consumption of just 1.6 litres per 100 kilometres.  

In the mild hybrid powertrain, the same 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine will be equipped with a 48-volt belt-driven started-generator system (BSG). Maximum output for this setup is 190 hp and 300 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is a commendable 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres.   

Both electrified engines will be paired with a highly efficient 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT).

Finally, the option for the non-electrified variant will be the current turbocharged 1.8-litre engine with outputs of 184 hp and 300 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed conventional automatic transmission. The upcoming Geely Boyue-based Proton X70 also features this powertrain, albeit slightly lower torque output of 285 Nm.  

The all-new MPV has an option of three seat-configurations, with two layouts of seven-seat plus one six-seat layout.

Plenty of advanced convenience-features will be included in the all-new Jiaji, such as an intelligent cup holder with heating and cooling function, a motion-activated ceiling light, and a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment panel.  

The Proton Exora was last updated in mid-2017

The official launch of the Jiaji will only be in early 2019. Closer to home, the Proton Exora will celebrate its tenth year in the market next year. The Geely Jiaji looks like an obvious candidate to replace the Exora as Proton begins with its new product offence to recapture market share.