Connect with us

Automotive

2025 GEELY OKAVANGO FIRST-DRIVE REVIEW: THREE ROWS OF COMFORT

Published

on

A front three-quarter shot of a blue Geely Okavango parked outdoors.
Amalsha VS

The Seven-Seater Specialist.
A genuinely practical seven-seater SUV that prioritizes space and functionality over styling, making it a compelling choice for larger families.

QUICK TAKE

Shiny Bits

  • Genuinely impressive third-row space
  • Comprehensive feature set.
  • Smooth dual-clutch transmission
  • Competitive pricing for a proper seven-seater.

Rough edges

  • Somewhat generic exterior styling.
  • Interior materials feel budget-conscious
  • Apple CarPlay is wired only
  • No Android Auto at all.

Founded in 1997 as a subsidiary of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Geely Auto has evolved from a small Chinese startup into a global automotive powerhouse that now owns Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar. Introduced to the UAE market through AGMC as the official distributor, Geely brings decades of automotive expertise and international partnerships to create vehicles that blend practical design with modern technology. The Okavango represents their vision of what a family-focused SUV should deliver in today’s market.

CONFIDENT DESIGN & PRACTICAL PROPORTIONS

A sde-angle shot of a blue Geely Okavango parked outdoors.
Handles the occasional rough road with ease.

The Okavango is a vehicle designed from the ground up to maximize interior space rather than make a style statement.

The Okavango presents a thoughtful approach to SUV design that prioritizes function over fashion. Its bold front grille creates a commanding road presence, while the clean lines and well-proportioned silhouette give it a confident stance without appearing dull. The LED lighting signatures add a contemporary touch that keeps the design current, though the overall aesthetic plays it safe within established SUV conventions.

What immediately strikes you about the Okavango is its substantial size – this is a vehicle designed from the ground up to maximize interior space rather than make a style statement. The result is a design that may not win beauty contests but clearly communicates its practical intentions to potential buyers seeking maximum utility.

CAPABLE POWERTRAIN & PUNCHY PERFORMANCE

A front-angle shot of a blue Geely Okavango parked outdoors.
Taking it to the top – Jabal Jais summit.

Slight body roll is inevitable in corners, but the Okavango is appreciably stable and manages to keep the passengers comfortable around curves.

Under the Okavango’s hood resides a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder motor pushing out 218 horsepower and 325 NM, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Acceleration is more than adequate: taking around 8 seconds to achieve a speed of 100 km/h, quick enough for confident overtakes on the UAE highways.

In Comfort mode, power delivery is smooth, while Sport mode noticeably sharpens engine response. Steering is tuned for lightness, good in city driving, but at higher speeds it could use a little more weight. Slight body roll is inevitable in corners, in a tall, three-row SUV, but the Okavango is appreciably stable and manages to keep the passengers comfortable around curves. Ride comfort is the focus: the suspension soaks up speed bumps and road imperfections with composure.

CONCEIVED AS A COMFY PEOPLE HAULER

A high-angle shot of the interior of the interior of a Geely Okavango
Space for the whole family.

The second row featuring a triple captain’s chairs layout delivers superior comfort and easier access to the third row.

Interior materials strike a balance between cost-consciousness and perceived quality, with the 12.3-inch infotainment screen providing clear graphics and intuitive operation. However, Android Auto isn’t offered, which we consider an essential feature for a modern car of this time. Apple CarPlay is included but only a wired connection is supported.

The overall cabin design ranks functionality above luxury, which suits the vehicle’s practical mission perfectly. This is where the Okavango distinguishes itself. Its flexible seating configuration allows you to accommodate passengers or cargo as needed, with the second row featuring a triple captain’s chairs layout providing superior comfort and easier access to the third row. The second row sliding & reclining gives flexibility to balance passenger comfort between the second and third rows.

The highlight factor of the Okavango is that its third-row is genuinely usable. Unlike many other mid-size crossovers, the Okavango doesn’t simply provide a third-row for namesake which is too cramped for grown-ups. Two adults can be seated there with a reasonable amount of legroom and headroom for shorter journeys. The seats fold and recline; and although ingress/egress is still a bit less convenient than second row, is not too much of a hassle.

Air conditioning is adjustable in the rear rows well, which matters under UAE heat and strong sun. Even with all seven seats occupied, passengers wouldn’t feel cramped or compromised inside the Okavango; a rare achievement in this segment.

FINAL FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Practical family transport, executed right.

For families expecting space, functionality, and value for money, the Okavango is a desirable offering that’s difficult to ignore.

The Geely Okavango succeeds brilliantly in its primary mission – delivering genuine seven-seater capability at a competitive price point. It’s a vehicle that understands its target audience and delivers exactly what they need without trying to be something it’s not. The exceptional third-row space alone makes it worth considering for families who need to transport seven people regularly.

It may not excite enthusiasts or turn heads on the UAE roads laden with all kinds of fancy automobiles. But the Okavango represents exactly the kind of practical, well-executed family transport that many buyers are seeking. For families expecting space, functionality, and value for money, the Okavango is a desirable offering that’s difficult to ignore. It’s a vehicle that does the important things well, which is often more valuable than flashy shock-value-features that rarely get used.

FAQ

Is the Geely Okavango available in the UAE?

Yes, the Geely Okavango is available in the UAE through AGMC, the official distributor for Geely vehicles in the region.

How many seats does the Geely Okavango have?

The Geely Okavango is a seven-seater SUV with a flexible seating configuration featuring a second-row triple captain’s chairs layout and a genuinely usable third row.

What engine does the Geely Okavango use?

The Okavango is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 218 horsepower and 325 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

How fast is the Geely Okavango?

The Geely Okavango accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8 seconds, providing adequate power for confident highway overtaking.

Does the Geely Okavango have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

The Okavango features wired Apple CarPlay, but Android Auto is not available on this model.

Is the third row in the Geely Okavango comfortable for adults?

Yes, unlike many mid-size SUVs, the Okavango’s third row offers genuine usability with reasonable legroom and headroom for two adults on shorter journeys.

What is the price range of the Geely Okavango in the UAE?

The Geely Okavango offers competitive pricing for a proper seven-seater SUV in the UAE market, making it an attractive value proposition for families.

Automotive

SONAX ACCELERATES DOUBLE-DIGIT GROWTH ACROSS GCC AND MIDDLE EAST WITH UAE DISTRIBUTOR RAMY AUTOMOTIVE

Published

on

A light blue car displayed under a white canopy at the modern, brightly lit SONAX exhibition booth inside a trade show.

SONAX GmbH, the global leader in car care solutions, has recorded consistent double-digit growth across the GCC and wider Middle East region, averaging between 10% and 20% over the past five years. This sustained expansion underscores the company’s strong foothold in the region and its position as the number-one premium car care brand, reinforced by a 35-year partnership with its UAE distributor, RAMY Automotive.

Building on this success, SONAX will showcase its next-generation innovations at Automechanika Dubai 2025, where it will unveil two new additions to its Ceramic Coating line, CC Glass and CC Rim. These latest formulations highlight SONAX’s continuous investment in innovation, performance, and product excellence.

“Our continued double-digit growth underscores the strong trust and loyalty that SONAX has built among car enthusiasts and professionals across the UAE,” said Edwin Berberi, Senior Business Development Manager SONAX, GmbH. “At RAMY Automotive, we take pride in representing SONAX in the UAE and strengthening its legacy of excellence in car care. We are committed to further expanding our footprint while upholding the highest standards of quality and customer satisfaction across the region.”

Founded in 1950 in Neuburg, Germany, SONAX has built its reputation on premium quality, continuous research, and technical advancement. Its comprehensive portfolio spans car, motorcycle, bicycle, and industrial care, from manual detailing to automated washing, offering both private and professional users products that meet the highest global standards.

The GCC is one of the fastest-growing markets for high-end vehicle maintenance, driven by discerning customers who own luxury cars and demand superior quality care. As such, SONAX has continued to attract both individual car enthusiasts and commercial clients seeking long-lasting protection and professional-grade efficiency.

“Automechanika Dubai provides the perfect platform to strengthen our connections with customers and partners while introducing our latest innovations tailored for regional needs,” added Berberi. “Our mission remains clear: to deliver premium, sustainable, and high-performance solutions that make every vehicle shine.”

SONAX’s advanced Ceramic Coating products have set industry benchmarks since the launch of Nano Paint Protect in 2006. Today, the brand leads with a complete portfolio that includes CC Vinyl+PPF and CC Plastic+Rubber, and now expands further with the 2026 innovations CC Glass and CC Rim.

As part of its environmental commitment, SONAX integrates sustainability across its operations and product development. The company is ISO 14001 certified for its environmental management system and participates in the Responsible Care initiative, ensuring continuous improvement in environmental, health, and safety standards. Most of its products are made with 99.75% natural ingredients, reflecting its dedication to creating environmentally conscious products without compromising performance.

With a strong partner network across the GCC and Middle East, SONAX is uniquely positioned to serve regional and international customers. Its cooperation with RAMY Automotive in the UAE has been a cornerstone of its regional strategy, ensuring that customers across all markets receive the same quality, service, and reliability synonymous with the SONAX brand.

Continue Reading

Automotive

Emarat Showcases Emojet’s Aviation Fuel Leadership at Dubai Airshow 2025

Published

on

Emarat Showcases Emojet’s Aviation Fuel Leadership at Dubai Airshow 2025

Emirates Petroleum Company PJSC (Emarat), a pioneer in the UAE’s oil and gas industry, will highlight the strength of its aviation fuel business at Dubai Airshow 2025 through its aviation subsidiary, Emojet, one of the leading into-plane fuel service providers at Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai World Central). Emojet will host airline, airport and industry partners at Chalet A52 from 17–21 November 2025, between 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM at Al Maktoum International Airport.

A key pillar of Emarat’s portfolio, aviation fuel is delivered through Emojet, which has proudly served the UAE’s world-leading aviation industry since 1992. Today, Emojet supplies aviation fuel to many of the world’s leading international airlines at Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport, delivering award-winning into-plane services built on safety, reliability and service excellence.

Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of Emarat, said, “Dubai Airshow is a natural platform for Emarat and Emojet. For more than three decades, we have been privileged to fuel the growth of the UAE’s aviation sector and support Dubai’s rise as a global hub for passengers and cargo. Through Emojet, we combine best-in-class infrastructure, rigorous safety and operational discipline with a partnership mindset that puts our customers’ network and growth ambitions at the centre. At Dubai Airshow 2025, we look forward to reinforcing our commitment to the aviation ecosystem and exploring new collaborations that will help shape the future of air connectivity in our region.”

At Dubai Airshow 2025, Emojet will focus on deepening existing relationships and building new partnerships with airlines, cargo operators, airports, and logistics players from across the region and beyond. This follows Emojet’s July 2024 agreement with Emirates SkyCargo to supply aviation fuel for the airline’s cargo operations at Al Maktoum International Airport – a model of the strategic collaborations the brand aims to replicate and expand during the show.

Salem Bin Suloom, Vice President – Aviation Sales at Emarat, said, “Emojet’s promise is simple – safe, reliable and efficient fueling, every time. Our customers operate in highly demanding environments, and they rely on us to deliver on-time performance, technical excellence and responsive service across every flight and every turnaround. At Dubai Airshow 2025, our focus is on listening to our partners, understanding their evolving operational needs and identifying new ways we can support them – whether through long-term supply agreements, expanded into-plane services, or new collaborations with airports and operators across the wider region. We warmly invite existing and prospective partners to visit us to discuss how Emojet can fuel their future plans.”

Emojet stands apart through its modern fleet of refuelling equipment, advanced control systems and highly trained operational teams. The company utilises the latest electronic data capture and interface systems to drive efficiency, accuracy and transparency, ensuring that its operations and equipment exceed mandated IATA standards.

Continue Reading

Automotive

How Machine Learning Makes Super Cruise Smarter Every Day

Published

on

An over the shoulder shot of the GM SuperCruise in action in a GM-branded vehicle.

When technology works effortlessly, it’s easy to forget the incredible engineering behind it. That was the goal with GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology. Super Cruise is designed to execute precise lane centering, perform smooth lane changes, interact with a driver’s requests and handle steering maneuvers. These advanced capabilities are managed by a single, modular software stack called the Unified Lateral Controller, or ULC. Looking inside, GM engineers built a self-learning system made up of machine learning algorithms to update the vehicle’s dynamics and controls. The algorithm makes quick decisions to ensure efficiency.

Imagine you’re driving with Super Cruise engaged, and you initiate a left lane change with the turn signal. Super Cruise then starts to shift the vehicle into the left lane. But let’s say you then decide to stay in the current lane, so you signal to the right. Super Cruise will respond by bringing you back to the center of the original lane – a seemingly effortless transition, but one that requires complex and rapid calculations.

Super Cruise needs to maneuver as naturally as possible for drivers to remain comfortable and confident as they drive hands free. Diving deeper, the ULC must consider many data inputs: The curvature of the road from the LiDAR map data, lane geometry from the cameras, trajectory of the vehicle based on current speeds, vehicle load, current weather conditions, and the behavior of surrounding vehicles–all in a matter of seconds.

One of the unique features of Super Cruise is its ability to maintain precise hands-free lane centering while towing a trailer – a capability unmatched in the industry. One of Super Cruise’s standout features is its ability to maintain precise, hands-free lane centering even while towing a trailer—a capability unmatched in the industry and currently available on select GM vehicles. With a trailer attached, ULC automatically accounts in real time for the additional mass and its effects on vehicle dynamics, optimizing steering commands to control both the vehicle and the trailer.

The self-learning system analyzes real-time sensor data, enabling Super Cruise to make more accurate decisions and perform proactive adjustments, improving driver comfort and confidence over time. That allows Super Cruise to adapt for each vehicle and each driver in different environmental conditions.

Let’s go back to our trailering example: Tight lateral control is important for keeping both the vehicle and the trailer centered in the lane. The model learns how the presence of the trailer changes the vehicle’s steering response and works with the ULC to optimize its responses and keep the vehicle and trailer centered in the lane. This model also scales Super Cruise enabled by OnStar , and is now available across 13 vehicle models on select trims, and counting . No matter the shape, size, or weight of the vehicle, the ULC and our self-learning algorithms can adapt, reducing complexity. We’re bringing Super Cruise to consumers on more models, offering consistent, predictable, safe hands-free driving.

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2023 | The Integrator