- The JAECOO J5 EV is one of the lower-priced new electric SUVs, with around 402 km WLTP range published.
- The Geely EX5 and MG S5 EV offer larger batteries and competitive range in selected grades.
- The Leapmotor B10 publishes NEDC—not WLTP—range, so compare test cycles carefully.
- Insurance, tyres, service access and delivery timing can change the novated lease result materially.
The new value end of the EV market
A few years ago, an Australian buyer wanting an electric SUV had limited choice below $50,000. That has changed. JAECOO, Geely, MG, Leapmotor and BYD now compete with practical five-seat EVs that can fit below important tax thresholds and within more realistic salary-packaging budgets.
Advertisements can make the decision look simple: compare price and range, then choose the biggest number. In practice, a novated lease comparison should use the exact drive-away invoice, selected grade, likely delivery date, insurance premium and running-cost budget.
Quick comparison
| Vehicle | Market position | Published range note | Worth checking |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAECOO J5 EV | Lower-priced compact SUV | Around 402 km WLTP | Dealer network, insurance and available stock |
| Geely EX5 | Value-focused medium SUV | Up to 475 km WLTP, grade-dependent | Exact grade, range figure and charging speed |
| MG S5 EV | Rear-wheel-drive family SUV | Up to 450 km on 62 kWh model | 49 kWh versus 62 kWh value |
| Leapmotor B10 | New small electric SUV | Up to 516 km NEDC on Design LR | NEDC conversion, service support and availability |
| BYD ATTO 3 | Established compact EV SUV | Variant-dependent | Current model update, stock and transaction price |
JAECOO J5 EV
The J5 EV is compelling because its advertised entry point is closer to mainstream petrol and hybrid SUVs than many earlier EVs. JAECOO publishes approximately 402 km of WLTP range. For drivers with predictable daily travel and home charging, that can be enough without paying for a larger battery.
Before ordering, confirm the exact build year, battery specification, included charging cable, spare-wheel or repair-kit arrangement, warranty, insurance and dealer servicing access.
Geely EX5
The EX5 is positioned as a roomy, well-equipped electric SUV. Geely advertises range figures up to 475 km WLTP depending on grade and current specification. It may suit buyers who want more family space than the smallest electric SUVs without moving into a premium price bracket.
Compare the Complete and Inspire grades carefully. Extra equipment increases the financed amount and residual, and larger wheels can affect replacement tyre cost and efficiency.
MG S5 EV
MG's S5 EV uses rear-wheel drive and offers 49 kWh and 62 kWh battery choices. The longer-range 62 kWh Essence publishes up to 450 km, while the smaller-battery grade may be more cost-effective for shorter daily travel.
The correct comparison is not automatically the larger battery. Estimate how often you would genuinely need the extra range and compare the additional finance cost against the convenience.
Leapmotor B10
The B10 adds another small SUV choice with a 160 kW motor and two range levels. Leapmotor publishes up to 516 km NEDC on the Design LR. Because NEDC is generally more optimistic than WLTP, do not place that number beside a WLTP figure and assume it will travel farther.
BYD ATTO 3
The ATTO 3 is more established in Australia than several newer entrants, which can help when assessing owner experience, service support and the used market. BYD continues to update its range, so compare the current specification rather than relying on an older review or superseded price.
A $5,000 vehicle-price difference affects the repayment and residual, but an unusually high insurance premium, expensive tyres or a higher finance rate can also change the fortnightly result. Obtain actual quotes wherever possible.
Which one is best for a novated lease?
The best vehicle is the one that meets your real driving needs at the strongest total cost. For mostly local driving, the lower-priced J5 EV or smaller-battery MG may be sufficient. Drivers wanting more space or a stronger range buffer may prefer the Geely or larger-battery alternatives. Employer policy, financier rules and current EV FBT eligibility still need confirmation.
Market note: Advertised prices, specifications and offers are current only when checked. Confirm the exact Australian vehicle and drive-away invoice before relying on any comparison.