2029 Geely Galaxy Cruiser revealed

Geely has unveiled its production-ready Galaxy Cruiser large SUV, dubbed the Geely Zhanjian 700 in China. This plug-in hybrid 4x4 shapes as a serious rival to the Land Rover Defender and Toyota LandCruiser, with an Australian launch looking increasingly likely.

It’s big, it’s powerful, and it’s likely to ruffle the feathers of established brands like Toyota and Land Rover.
But Geely’s new hardcore 4x4 flagship SUV, the Galaxy Cruiser, will also challenge compatriot brands such as Denza, BYD and GWM Tank.

Indeed, Chinese car-maker Geely – which owns Volvo, Zeekr, Polestar and Lotus – has revealed the production version of its Galaxy Cruiser 4x4 SUV, known as the Zhanjian 700 in China.

The plug-in hybrid 4x4 SUV is expected to pair a small petrol engine with three electric motors, low-range gearing, a locking rear differential, plus a circa-70kWh battery pack.

A premium interior is also expected, based on the images released this week.

The production model was evolved from the prototype version shown at the 2025 Shanghai motor show, ahead of its full reveal this week. Manufacturing begins in China in 2026, and the large SUV is all but confirmed for Australia.

It’s too early to speculate on pricing given limited detail, but a Geely Australia spokesperson told carsales the brand was always monitoring market trends.

“With regard to the Geely Galaxy Cruiser/Zhanjian 700, we are unable to share any information at this stage.

“Any plans for its introduction to Australia will be based on thorough market research and consumer insights, and will be announced in due course,” said the spokesperson.

Geely UK has gone one step further, with marketing director Tianxiao Yan confirming to Car Magazine, “We will definitely launch that car in the UK. No problem.”

UK deliveries are expected to commence in 2028, signalling right-hand drive production is already locked in.

That points to a potential Australian arrival in 2029.

In terms of design, the Geely Zhanjian 700 draws heavily on the Land Rover Defender’s visual language, including rectangular headlights with circular daytime running lights, a single-bar illuminated grille, front fender vents, plastic body cladding and a rear-mounted spare wheel carrier.

A contrasting white roof, two-tone wheels and blacked-out pillars complete the look, with Geely internally describing the design language as “ripple aesthetic.”

Under the skin, the SUV is built on Geely’s full-spectrum AI technology platform with next-generation EEA4.0 electronic architecture.

It features an integrated ladder frame and a tri-motor four-wheel drive system.

Drive modes span front-, rear- and all-wheel drive configurations, with pure electric, hybrid and extended-range options available.

Inside, the cabin features a lever-style shifter with a leather grab handle, alongside a dedicated drive mode selector. A bank of off-road controls includes a ride-height selector, 4-Low engagement and a locking rear differential.

Geely has confirmed the Galaxy Cruiser has already completed winter validation testing in Sweden and is undergoing further global extreme-condition testing, with Geely claiming strong structural reliability and handling stability.

Connectivity is another focus, with Geely claiming satellite network capability for remote-area coverage. It's not clear how this will work in different regions, but could be similar to Elon Musk's Starlink system.

The battery uses the brand’s ‘Golden Short Blade Battery’ technology, with what Geely describes as bulletproof-grade protection to guard against deformation, fire and explosion.

The Geely Galaxy Cruiser is clearly targeting the high-end off-road SUV segment, with rivals including the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, Nissan Patrol and Land Rover Defender.

“Geely is committed to offering a diverse range of vehicles that meet the needs of local markets,” said the Geely spokesperson. And Aussies love off-road 4WD SUVs.

The new Chinese challenger would also face emerging electrified competitors such as the Yangwang U8, GWM Tank 700, Deepal G318 and upcoming models from Denza.

While pricing and final specifications remain under wraps, Geely's global arm has indicated the Galaxy Cruiser will sit at the flagship end of its range. In other words, it won't be a $50,000 proposition and it could be double that price.

Join the conversation at our Facebook page
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au