The 2026 Geely Starray EM-i marks Geely’s ambitious entry into Australia’s growing “Super Hybrid” (plug-in hybrid) segment. With value pricing, generous feature lists, and a dual powertrain offering, it aims to challenge rivals like BYD Sealion 6 and MG HS. In this review (based on CarsGuide’s Aussie first drive), we break down what this PHEV offers, where it shines, and where it still needs improvement.
2026 Geely Starray EM-I Pricing & Variants
The 2026 Geely Starray EM-I starts in Australia from AUD $37,490 (plus on-road costs) for the base “Complete” trim. The higher “Inspire” grade adds premium features at a higher price. These prices undercut many competing PHEVs, making it a bold value play in its class.
2026 Geely Starray EM-I Design & Practicality
Geely describes the Starray’s styling as inspired by aerodynamics and modern Chinese ceramics. However, the exterior drew mixed reaction — it’s regarded as competent but lacking standout character.
Inside, the Starray EM-I is highly practical. Legroom and headroom are generous in back seats, and the boot offers 428 litres, expanding to 2,065 litres when the rear seats fold down.
The cabin features include a 15.4-inch centre infotainment display and a 10.2-inch digital driver’s display. While the screens are immersive, the lack of physical controls for climate and audio functions can feel less intuitive.
2026 Geely Starray EM-I Powertrain, Range & Efficiency
Under the bonnet, both the Complete and Inspire versions share the same tech. The 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor produce a combined output of 193 kW. It’s front-wheel drive only.
Battery-wise, the vehicle carries an 18.4 kWh LFP battery that delivers a claimed EV-only range of 83 km under ideal conditions.
Fuel consumption is rated at 2.4 L/100 km (combined) when the hybrid system assists. Total range with the fuel tank and electric help pushes toward 943 km.
It also includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, offering flexibility to power small devices off the car battery.
2026 Geely Starray EM-I Driving Experience & Handling
In Australia, Geely tuned the suspension differently from the Chinese version. The result: a firmer ride suited to more aggressive road surfaces, but it sometimes feels unsettled on rough country roads.
Steering is light and responsive for city driving, and the powertrain transitions smoothly between electric and petrol modes. However, real-world EV range fell short of ideal in testing, and the ride wasn’t always as composed in tougher conditions.
2026 Geely Starray EM-I Safety, Warranty & Ownership
Geely provides a seven-year unlimited km vehicle warranty and an eight-year battery warranty. Service intervals are annual or every 15,000 km, and total servicing cost over the first five years is projected around AUD $1,932 with bundled pricing.
Safety equipment is robust: seven airbags including a centre airbag, features like autonomous emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and more. Yet, real-world behavior of assistance systems like intelligent cruise control showed over-cautious braking on gentle curves.
The Starray EM-i does not yet carry an official ANCAP rating, though its sibling model (EX5) shares a 5-star rating.
2026 Geely Starray EM-I Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strong value for a plug-in hybrid
- Generous feature set even in base trim
- Spacious cabin layout
- Competitive EV-hybrid efficiency
- Good warranty and parts support
Cons
- Exterior design lacks bold character
- Ride can be firm or unsettled on rough roads
- EV range is good but not leading
- Driver-assist systems need calibration
- No full-size spare tyre
2026 Geely Starray EM-I vs Competitors
The Geely Starray EM-I competes directly with midsize hybrid and plug-in SUVs like the BYD Sealion 6, MG HS Super Hybrid, Chery Tiggo 7 Hybrid, and traditional hybrids like Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. Its edge lies in its value pricing, strong feature content, and efficient powertrain. In contrast, rivals might outshine in design flair, EV range, brand recognition, or aftersales support.
Verdict
The 2026 Geely Starray EM-I is a bold contender in Australia’s electrified SUV segment. While its design may not turn heads, its mix of space, features, efficiency, and warranty makes it a strong choice for buyers who want a plug-in hybrid without paying premium EV prices. It’s not perfect, but for value-centric buyers, it’s hard to ignore.
