Geely's Monjaro i-HEV, a hybrid that never needs plugging in, delivers a driving experience close to an electric vehicle while retaining the familiar habits of a petrol car. According to Autohome, which conducted a real-world road test, the model's appeal lies in its seamless blend of efficiency and refinement.
Under the hood: a clever hybrid system
The Monjaro i-HEV pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with a 238 hp (177 kW) electric motor and a single-speed DHT gearbox. Its architecture echoes Toyota's THS hybrid system found in cars like the Corolla and Levin, but with more aggressive power figures. The official WLTC combined fuel consumption is 4.75 litres per 100 km, and in practice the system proved mature and well-integrated, according to the test.
At low speeds, the car runs almost entirely on electric power. Even with a heavy throttle foot in scenarios like exiting a car park or climbing a ramp, the engine stays silent, delivering a start-up feel indistinguishable from a pure BEV (battery-electric vehicle). Cabin noise is minimal with windows closed. When acceleration demands more, the electric motor remains the primary driver, with the engine only cutting in at higher speeds or under sustained load. The single-speed DHT gearbox manages transitions so smoothly that the driver rarely notices the switch, though a faint engine hum is perceptible for those seeking absolute quiet.
Handling and ride: comfort-first balance
Steering is light but not vague, making city manoeuvres effortless—even a one-handed U-turn is feasible. At highway speeds of 70-80 km/h, the steering weight builds progressively, ensuring stability without feeling overly sporty. Autohome notes that drivers accustomed to German cars' heavier steering may need time to adapt, but the lightness prioritises reducing driver fatigue over sharp handling.
The chassis, a traditional strength of the Monjaro line, benefits from the hybrid's lightweight design. The car weighs just 1.7 tonnes, avoiding the 'heaviness' seen in some hybrids. Over rough roads, the suspension absorbs bumps cleanly with no lingering vibrations, and in corners, body control is composed with adequate side support. The overall tune leans toward comfort while retaining a degree of firmness, placing it above average in its class.
The Monjaro i-HEV's core value is 'seamless transition': it requires no change in refuelling habits yet offers a smooth, EV-like experience. On highways, its per-kilometre running cost is nearly on par with a BEV charging at 1.5 yuan per kWh, making it particularly attractive for long-distance drivers. However, as a non-plug-in hybrid, it still requires a blue licence plate in cities with purchase restrictions, meaning it counts against a buyer's petrol-car quota.
For those with long commutes, limited charging access, or frequent highway trips, the Monjaro i-HEV is a worthy consideration, blending economy with a refined driving feel.
