More than 500 units of the Okavango were sold in the first half of the year, and Geely plans to up that number further. Sojitz G Auto Philippines (SGAP), the local distributor of the Chinese carmaker, aims to do so while it expands its dealer network. 

If consumers desire something unusual, then they may want to drop by a Geely dealer. The Okavango is said to meld the benefits of a multi-purpose vehicle with an SUV. That combination reflects the ecosystem of the Okavango River Delta in Africa, according to Geely's design team. 

There's nothing extraordinary about the crossover's price, however. From P1.208 to P1.478 million for its three variants, the Okavango's prices are on par with the SUV segment. But if the Okavango's drawbacks outweigh its benefits, perhaps the competition has no reason to be wary.  

Pros

Hybrid power

All Okavango variants are powered by a combination of a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo engine and a 48-volt electric motor, in order to generate 190hp and 300Nm of torque. The e-motor assists the gas engine to the tune of an (estimated) 15 to 20kpl, and with the help of a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

Filled with features

Even in its basic spec, the Okavango is fitted with LED daytime running lights and fog lights front and rear, chrome exterior door handles, three-zone auto climate control, and push button start. Three rows of seats are standard across the range. 

Meanwhile, mid- to top varieties carry eight speakers, power-adjustable driver and passenger perches, and a 360-degree view parking camera. Leather seats for all seven passengers and a powered tailgate are also included. 

As for the Okavango Urban Plus, it's topped off by a panoramic sunroof. Running almost the entire length of the roof, the window also features shading material and can shut itself when it senses rainfall. A fully digital 12-inch instrument panel is another, well, plus for this particular variant. 

Safety systems 

The toys aren't limited to convenience features. The safety kit is comprised of six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, central locking with speed-sensing auto lock, tire-pressure monitor, and hill descent control.

Headlights with Adaptive Drive Beam (ADB) are a noteworthy addition, as these can adjust their own high or low beams depending on conditions. Their beams follow the direction the steering is turned, and can level the height of their beams. 

Aside from collisions, the Okavango's occupants are also kept safe from harmful air. The car's triple-zone air-conditioning system is equipped with a CN95 filter.

Con

Possible complicated maintenance

The more gadgets a car carries, more things may break as the car ages. It's also possible that the neighborhood talyer may not be able to service, or repair, the Okavango's unconventional mild-hybrid drivetrain. On the upside at least, there's the mentioned dealer network expansion plans from SGAP.

Photos from Geely, Ricky Ladia 

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