Geely adds Starray EM-i Extended Range

ONLY months after the model’s arrival Down Under, Chinese manufacturer Geely is doubling down on plug-in hybrid technology in Australia, confirming a major update for its midsize Starray EM-i SUV with the introduction of a new Extended Range flagship variant offering nearly 1000km of combined driving range.

The updated MY27 Starray EM-i Inspire Extended Range adopts a substantially larger 29.8kWh battery pack, replacing the outgoing Inspire’s 18.4kWh unit, and dramatically boosting electric-only capability from 83km to 136km (WLTP rated).

Total combined range also increases from a claimed 943km to 996km, placing the Starray among the longest-range PHEVs currently offered in Australia.

Fuel consumption for the updated Inspire variant falls sharply from 2.4 litres per 100km to a claimed 1.4L/100km on the combined cycle – a reduction of more than 40 per cent, says Geely.

DC fast-charging capability has also been upgraded, with charging speeds doubling from 30kW to 60kW, enabling a 30-80 per cent recharge in a claimed 16 minutes.

Pricing for the upgraded Inspire Extended Range variant rises by $1500 to $41,490 while the entry-level Starray EM-i Complete remains unchanged at $37,490 and continues with the smaller 18.4kWh battery.

Geely’s almost pre-emptive move reflects a growing momentum behind extended-range hybrids as buyers seek EV-style daily usability without full reliance on charging infrastructure.

The improvements may significantly strengthen the Starray EM-i’s position against emerging rivals in the increasingly crowded electrified SUV segment.

Alongside the battery upgrade, Geely has added several new features to the MY27 range including towing preparation, trailer stability assist, and a five-metre Mode 2 charging cable.

The flagship Inspire Extended Range also gains front-seat massage functionality.

The larger battery pack has already been tested locally, having previously featured in the Starray EM-i used during Geely’s Guinness World Record fuel economy run between Sydney and Melbourne.

During the drive, the SUV recorded an average consumption figure of 3.83L/100km across mixed road conditions.

The update arrives as plug-in hybrids continue gaining traction in Australia, particularly among buyers not yet ready to transition fully to battery-electric vehicles.

By significantly extending electric-only range while maintaining long-distance capability, Geely says the Starray EM-i provides a practical bridge between conventional hybrids and full EVs.

The updated MY27 Starray EM-i range is due in Australian dealerships from late this month (May).

2026 (MY27) Geely Starray EM-i pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.