Geely has launched the new Emgrand Up series in China, a refreshed version of its long-running budget sedan line. The model, available in three trims, carries a limited-time launch price of 59,900 to 73,900 yuan (about $8,400 to $10,400), undercutting the regular pricing to boost early sales. The car is built on Geely's BMA modular architecture and aims to reset expectations for affordable family sedans by making 100 features standard across the range, according to Chinese outlet 电动邦 (EV Kingdom).
Proven durability and refreshed design
At the launch event, Geely showcased a first-generation Emgrand with nearly 1 million km on the odometer and no major repairs, then dismantled it on stage to demonstrate build quality. The tear-down revealed no engine oil leaks, a gearbox still offering crisp shifts, and minimal chassis corrosion, with cavity wax applied 13 years ago still intact. Experts including a former Tongji University professor and a Geely executive who worked on the original model verified the findings.
The new Emgrand Up adopts a "universal aesthetics" design language, adding an Alpine Gold exterior color and a Dawn Brown interior theme. It features a wide grille, 17-inch machined alloy wheels, and a full-width LED tail light bar. The body is 1,820 mm wide with a low 0.27 drag coefficient, and rear-seat space measures 1,449 mm across, balancing sporty looks with practicality.
Smart cockpit and powertrain
The interior is a key upgrade, with the Flyme Auto 2 infotainment system running on a 12.8-inch floating touchscreen (1,920×1,080 resolution, 80% NTSC color gamut). The car offers dual-zone voice control with 500 ms response, a high-definition 850 map with traffic-light and route alerts, and cloud storage for over 200 apps. Phone connectivity covers FlymeLink, Carlink, and HiCar, and a 540-degree transparent chassis view aids parking.
Power comes from a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 88 kW (118 hp) and 150 N·m, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a CVT. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.99 L/100 km (manual) and 6.19 L/100 km (automatic) under WLTC. The chassis, tuned by Chinese and European engineers, offers a torsional rigidity above 20,000 N·m/deg. Geely backs the car with a 4-year/150,000 km warranty, longer than the industry standard.
The Emgrand family has sold over 4.28 million units globally across five generations since 2009, with 177 consecutive months of sales above 10,000 units. The new Up series, with its aggressive pricing and comprehensive standard equipment, is positioned to defend its title as China's quintessential people's sedan.
