Geely’s second locally-delivered model, the Starray EM-i, has launched with an introductory price of $37,490. After 3000 sales year-to-date of the EX5, Geely is looking to consolidate its position in the Australian market.
Like the EX5, there are two variants of the new model; the Complete and the flagship Inspire, which retails from $39,990.
Under the bonnet sits a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an 11-in-1 electric drive unit incorporating two e-motors. Combined outputs are 160kW/262Nm from the electric system, with the petrol unit contributing an additional 73kW/125Nm.
Drive goes to the front wheels via a three-speed planetary hybrid drive system. Fuel economy is rated at 2.4L/100km, and Geely says 0-100km/h can be achieved in 8.0 seconds.
Competing with the Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid and MG HS Super Hybrid, the Starray is the only model designed from the outset to be a plug-in hybrid, which, according to Geely, yields packaging advantages, with 84.3 per cent of the SUV’s total volume usable for cabin and luggage space.
There is a big emphasis on safety, with lessons learned from its acquisition of Volvo and extensive torture testing of its 18.4kWh ‘Aegis’ Short Blade battery. Like its EX5 brother, the Starray will likely earn a five-star ANCAP rating. The electric architecture can facilitate 6.6kW vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability and can accept up to 30kW of DC fast charging.
Other notable features include 32 storage spaces, 16 different seating configurations, a 15.4-inch infotainment screen, and a 13.8-inch HUD and 10.2-inch instrument panel. The interior layout is similar to the EX5 with a central button to control various functions. The Inspire also has a ‘Flyme Auto’ stereo system with 16 speakers (including headrest-mounted units), 7.1 surround sound, and a 1000W, 12-channel output.
A fully aluminium, multi-link rear suspension system and cradle might give the Starray a dynamic edge relative to some of its competitors.
Warranty is seven years/ unlimited km, with eight years for the high voltage battery, up to seven years of roadside assistance and two free years of 2G internet connectivity.
For the first handful of buyers, additional offers will be available, including a 3.88% comparison finance rate, or premium paint and a $1000 deposit contribution towards the total cost.
