MIAS Wired: Geely PH puts all-new Okavango front and center

MANILA: MPV and SUV crossovers have undoubtedly become more popular in recent times, and Chinese automaker Geely appears to be cognizant of this.

During the afternoon sessions of the MIAS Wired 2020 last December 16, the spotlight was directed towards its recently launched seven-seater Okavango, which positions itself as a powerful and large vehicle that brings a wonderfully unique driving experience.

Geely Vice President and General Manager for Global Design Guy Burgoyne talked about the all-new Okavango in a video presentation.

Burgoyne said, “Our Okavango embodies the energetic spirit with technology to bring you a crossover with extended space. As progressive as our customers, we are constantly evolving and improving to meet and embrace their growing expectations.”

He added, “The Okavango is optimized to challenge the traditional image of MPV with a fashionable, comfortable, and multi-functional crossover cross-over style. Crossovers represent a new way of blending life attitude and aesthetics. As the first cross MPV from Geely, Okavango shows the essence of a new generation in a competitive car, one of quality, comfort, luxury, and multi-functionality.”

The Okavango is positioned as appropriate for numerous life scenarios such as school activities, daily driving to work, and traveling out of the city with the family specifically during weekends and holidays.

The front part of the Okavango signifies the “crossover” design theme. The shape of the intakes and the lamps are visually linked in order to improve the vehicle's width.  Its overall width is 1,900mm, which is meant for a more comfortable and spacious ride.

The "Cosmic Recall" front grille of the all-new Okavango continuously transforms the dynamic “Expanding Cosmos” design language of Geely Auto.  The design itself rhythmically delivers a strong sense of power and style.

The LED daytime running lights (DRLs) found in the middle of the full LED lamps form iconic wing-shaped design of Geely.

Aside from this, the Okavango also features side mirror indicators, rear fog lamps, and integrated full LED headlamps for better visibility on the road, especially at night and during foggy or rainy weather. As for its front fog lamps, it follows a Diamond Claw design. 

It also has intelligent rain-sensing wipers, wherein the speed is automatically adjustable depending on the amount of rainfall.

The skyline double-tracked roof rails help in enhancing the aerodynamic flow of the vehicle due to its floating design.

The all-new Okavango also has 18-inch Continental tires as well as a sporty wheel design that improves handling and the overall look of the MPV.

The Okavango is also characterized by a high stance and a well-sculpted, muscular profile, as it exhibits a dynamic G-line design DNA in every detail in its exterior.

During the second half of the session, Assistant Manager for Training Nikko Sayson (below) did an up-close and personal walk-through of the Okavango.  

Sayson explained, “The Okavango name comes from the Okavango Delta, which is Northwestern Botswana’s vast inland delta. UNESCO has recognized the Okavango Delta as its 1,000^th World Heritage Site and is also declared as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.”

Under the hood of the all-new Okavango is a 1.5-liter turbocharged DVVT Direct-Injection engine that generates a maximum torque of 300Nm and a maximum power output of 190hp. Its smooth shifting can be attributed to its seven-speed wet-type dual-clutch transmission.

A 48-volt Electric Motor Synergy System (EMS) is also fitted in the vehicle, which produces excellent fuel consumption and high performance.

Inside, the driver and passengers are welcomed into a comfortable space and a futuristic atmosphere thanks to the air-conditioning design, center console, and floating door handles.

The Okavango can adopt its behavior according to the needs of the driver since the vehicle is fitted with three driving modes, namely, Sport, Eco, and Comfort. The electronic gearshift also allows the driver to control the vehicle easily through just one flick of the wrist.

The occupants do not have to fuss over long trips thanks to the all-new Okavango’s comfortable three-layer seat cushion as well as customized VIP leather seats. 

All seats can be adjusted according to the preference of the driver and passengers.

The Okavango has 19 flexible seating configurations to suit the needs of its occupants. The second-row seats can also be adjusted both forward and backward (240mm), and it offers convenient access to the third-row seats.

As for the third-row passengers, they do not need to worry since the third-row backseat is also adjustable from seven degrees to a 23 degrees.

This seven-seater MPV has three-zone air conditioning controls that allows autonomous control of the temperature of the rear passengers’ side, the front passenger side, and the driver side.  

The occupants can also experience cleaner and safer air due to the CN95 cabin filter of the Okavango.

Storage and comfort are also significant since the vehicle features a double-layer console that can serve as a comfortable armrest to enhance one’s posture behind the steering wheel.

Moreover, the console and second-row in-floor bins can be considered as a storage area and additional organizer for the driver’s important items. The vehicle also has a total of 42 storage spaces for anyone’s cups, receipts, coins, gadgets, and other accessories to minimize distractions while driving.

Connectivity and entertainment are both not compromised since the Okavango is equipped with a 10.25-inch HD infotainment system, where the occupants can charge their smartphones, play music, watch movies, and control the settings of the vehicle.

The vehicle also features a tire pressure monitoring system and a Smart Electric Tailgate with Angle Memory that closes and opens with just one push of the button inside or outside the driver’s side.

Safety is also prioritized in the all-new Okavango since it is fitted with advanced safety features such as a 360-degree camera that allows the driver to perceive the surroundings of the vehicle and 3D real-time imaging and dynamic auxiliary lines to aid the driver in turning or reversing.

It also has six SRS airbags surrounding the passengers and the driver to cushion impact in case of collision.

The all-new Okavango features an electronic parking brake, and  auto-hold to aid the driver by stepping on the parking brake and releasing it by stepping on the gas pedal.

For added safety when driving downhill or uphill, the Okavango includes the hill descent control function that instantly applies the brakes to the vehicle as well as the hill hold control for holding the vehicle while moving up or down.

Space is also not a problem for the all-new Okavango since it has a total of 2,050 liters of full-flat supreme cargo space, enough to fit an inflatable bed. Thus, the vehicle can transport the driver, his or her loved ones, and their luggage anywhere conveniently.

The all-new Geely Okavango is available in four colors, namely, Marble Black, Porcelain White, Storm Grey, and Luna Silver.

In the Philippines, the Okavango has two variants: the Urban, which is priced at P1,328,000, and the Comfort, priced at P1,208,000.

Screengrabs by Prim Lamaroza, main photo by Ricky Ladia

Also read: Are you ready for the Geely Okavango?