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Geely’s bold bid to take on Defender and G‑Class
Geely is developing a rugged new off‑road SUV called the Galaxy Cruiser, and this time it’s not a concept for showrooms — it’s being prepared for production with an eye on Europe, including the UK. The automaker, emboldened by its ownership ties to Lotus and a recent wave of technology sharing, has openly said the Galaxy Cruiser will be sold in Britain, signaling a direct challenge to icons like the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes‑Benz G‑Class.
Lotus DNA and the SEA‑R platform
Underneath the Galaxy Cruiser sits the advanced SEA‑R architecture — the same Lotus‑derived platform that underpins high‑performance models such as the Zeekr 9X and the plug‑in hybrid Lotus Eletre/Ultra derivatives. That connection matters: Lotus expertise brings a focus on chassis dynamics, lightweight engineering and performance tuning that could make this SUV unusually capable off road and on pavement.
What engineers are saying
Geely’s design studio leads report impressive desert testing results in China. Engineers noted active independent suspension on each wheel and a watertightness allowing up to 800mm of wading depth — figures that suggest serious off‑road intent rather than mere styling cues.
Powertrain and performance expectations
The Galaxy Cruiser is expected to use a potent plug‑in hybrid system similar to its Lotus and Zeekr siblings: a 2.0‑liter turbo gasoline engine paired with three electric motors. That architecture promises full time electric‑assist all‑wheel drive and very high combined output — by comparison, Zeekr’s halo models approach the 1,000+ hp mark. If Geely tunes the Galaxy Cruiser close to those levels, it would become one of the quickest off‑road SUVs ever made.
Key technical highlights likely to feature:
- 2.0L turbo petrol engine + three electric motors (PHEV)
- Active independent suspension for each wheel
- 70 kWh battery pack with roughly 350 km pure electric range
- 800 mm water wading capability
Luxury focus, not just brute force
Despite its off‑road credentials, Geely says the Galaxy Cruiser emphasizes luxury and family use rather than the feral character of the Defender or Ford Bronco. Interior design will borrow successful market formulas, with a premium focus on comfort, technology and space — but with AI‑assisted driver aids baked in. Advanced driver assistance will analyze terrain and suggest escape routes or recovery maneuvers in critical situations, blending off‑road smarts with everyday usability.
Market positioning and why it matters
Geely’s move into premium off‑road territory is significant. It shows a shift from cautious entry‑level strategies to direct competition with established European marques. If the Galaxy Cruiser delivers on its performance, range and luxury promises, it could reshape the premium 4x4 segment by offering a hybrid, tech‑rich alternative to traditional ladder‑frame rivals.
"We will definitely launch this car in the UK," said Geely’s UK marketing head, a line that will no doubt be watched closely by competitors.
Whether buyers will accept a Chinese‑built SUV as an alternative to the Defender or G‑Class will depend on real‑world tests, reliability data and dealer support — but the Galaxy Cruiser is already one of the most intriguing new entrants in the global off‑road market.
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