The Australian automotive market is set to witness a significant shift with the arrival of the Geely Starray EM-i, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) slated for release in the fourth quarter of 2025. As Geely Auto Australia expands its footprint following the successful launch of the all-electric Geely EX5, the Starray EM-i emerges as a formidable contender in the competitive mid-size SUV segment. Built on Geely’s Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA) platform, this vehicle introduces the brand’s innovative E-Motive Intelligence (EM-i) Super Hybrid powertrain to Australian shores, positioning it as a direct rival to established players like the BYD Sealion 6, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and the upcoming Toyota RAV4 PHEV. With its blend of advanced technology, competitive pricing, and eco-friendly credentials, the Starray EM-i is poised to disrupt Australia’s growing PHEV market.
This article delves into the specifications, features, and market implications of the Geely Starray EM-i, exploring its potential to reshape consumer preferences in Australia’s SUV landscape. From its powertrain and performance to its safety features and competitive positioning, we’ll uncover why this vehicle is generating buzz and how it stacks up against its rivals.
The Geely Starray EM-i: An Overview
The Geely Starray EM-i, known in China as the Galaxy Starship 7, is a mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV designed to offer a balance of electric efficiency and traditional combustion engine reliability. Launched in China in late 2024, the vehicle has already sold over 80,000 units, signaling strong market acceptance. Geely’s decision to bring this model to Australia under the Starray name reflects a strategic approach to align with export markets while maintaining brand consistency.
The Starray EM-i is built on the same GEA platform as the Geely EX5, a fully electric SUV that has gained traction in Australia for its affordability and five-star ANCAP safety rating. This shared architecture ensures the Starray EM-i benefits from advanced engineering, prioritizing occupant safety, battery durability, and resilience to extreme conditions.
Powertrain and Performance
At the heart of the Starray EM-i lies Geely’s E-Motive Intelligence (EM-i) Super Hybrid powertrain, a sophisticated system combining a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine (73kW/125Nm) with a single electric motor (160kW/262Nm). Together, they deliver a combined system output of 193kW, sent exclusively to the front wheels. The vehicle is equipped with an 18.4kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery, slightly smaller than the 19.1kWh pack used in China, which supports up to 120km of electric-only range under the Chinese CLTC testing standard. While Australian figures may differ due to the more stringent WLTP standard, the Starray EM-i is expected to offer around 100km of EV-only range, surpassing the upcoming Toyota RAV4 PHEV’s target of 100km.
The Starray EM-i features three selectable drive modes to enhance versatility:
|
Drive Mode |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Pure |
Prioritizes EV-only driving, ideal for short commutes and urban environments. |
|
Hybrid |
Combines electric and combustion power for balanced efficiency and performance. |
|
Power |
Maximizes system output for dynamic driving and high-performance scenarios. |
These modes allow drivers to tailor the vehicle’s behavior to their needs, with Geely emphasizing an “electric-first” design that makes the Starray EM-i feel like an EV most of the time. The inclusion of silicon carbide battery technology further enhances efficiency by managing temperature and ensuring consistent performance across diverse Australian climates.
Additionally, the Starray EM-i supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality with a 3.3kW output, enabling it to power external devices, making it a practical choice for outdoor adventures or emergency power needs. The battery supports DC fast charging at up to 36kW, achieving a 30-80% charge in approximately 20 minutes, which is competitive for its class.
Design and Features
The Starray EM-i is a lengthened version of the Geely EX5, measuring 125mm longer nose to tail while maintaining similar width, height, and wheelbase. This extended design provides a spacious interior, positioning it as a family-friendly SUV. The exterior features a sleek, modern aesthetic with gloss black window trim, a full-width taillight, and a subtle ducktail spoiler, drawing inspiration from Geely’s Galaxy sub-brand design language. Unlike some rivals that prioritize novelty with flush door handles, the Starray EM-i retains traditional handles for practicality.
Inside, the Starray EM-i is expected to offer a tech-rich cabin, building on the EX5’s reputation for accessible quality and innovation. While specific interior details for the Australian model are yet to be confirmed, Geely’s focus on occupant comfort and advanced infotainment systems suggests a competitive feature set. The vehicle’s GEA platform enhances structural rigidity, contributing to both safety and a refined driving experience.
Safety and Technology
Safety is a cornerstone of the Starray EM-i’s design, with Geely leveraging the GEA platform’s advanced engineering to achieve robust occupant protection. The EX5, which shares the same platform, earned a five-star ANCAP safety rating, and the Starray EM-i is expected to follow suit. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking are likely to be standard, aligning with Geely’s commitment to safety.
The Starray EM-i also incorporates Geely’s Xingrui AI Cloud Power 2.0, an AI-driven system that optimizes torque distribution, enhances responsiveness, and reduces energy consumption. This technology, debuted at Auto Chongqing 2025, underscores Geely’s push toward intelligent, efficient hybrid systems. The vehicle’s over-the-air (OTA) update capability, as demonstrated with the EX5, ensures that software improvements and new features can be seamlessly integrated post-purchase.
Market Positioning and Pricing
The Starray EM-i enters a fiercely competitive mid-size SUV segment in Australia, where plug-in hybrids are gaining traction due to rising fuel costs, environmental awareness, and government incentives. Its primary rival, the BYD Sealion 6, has dominated as Australia’s best-selling PHEV in 2024, with a starting price of $42,990 before on-road costs. Geely aims to challenge this dominance by pricing the Starray EM-i competitively, potentially undercutting the Sealion 6 to become one of Australia’s most affordable PHEVs.
Other competitors include the Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid ($39,990 driveaway), Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and the upcoming Toyota RAV4 PHEV (expected in 2026). Geely’s focus on value, combined with its advanced hybrid technology and up to 1,420km of total range in hybrid mode, positions the Starray EM-i as a compelling alternative.
|
Competitor |
Starting Price (AUD) |
EV-Only Range (WLTP) |
Total Range (Hybrid) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Geely Starray EM-i |
~$42,990 (est.) |
~100km (est.) |
Up to 1,420km |
|
BYD Sealion 6 |
$42,990 |
92km |
~1,000km |
|
Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid |
$39,990 (driveaway) |
~80km |
~1,000km |
|
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV |
$55,490 |
84km |
~900km |
|
Toyota RAV4 PHEV (2026) |
~$50,000 (est.) |
100km (est.) |
~1,000km (est.) |
Geely’s Broader Strategy in Australia
Geely’s introduction of the Starray EM-i is part of a broader strategy to launch six new hybrid or electric models in Australia by 2028, all based on the GEA platform. The EX5, launched earlier in 2025, has already registered 1,023 units by May, demonstrating strong initial demand. The Starray EM-i builds on this momentum, with Geely Auto Australia CEO Lei Li emphasizing its role as a “worthy follow-up” that delivers “accessible quality, innovation, and value.”
The brand’s focus on electrified vehicles aligns with Australia’s growing appetite for low-emission vehicles, with plug-in hybrids achieving a 2.8% market share in May 2025. Geely’s aggressive expansion, including potential models like the Galaxy M9 six-seat PHEV and the A7 EM-i sedan, signals its intent to capture a significant share of this market.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the Starray EM-i boasts impressive credentials, it faces challenges in a crowded market. The BYD Sealion 6’s established presence and brand loyalty pose a significant hurdle, as does the upcoming Toyota RAV4 PHEV’s reputation for reliability. Additionally, a trademark dispute between Geely and BMW over the EX5 name could impact brand perception, though no opposition has been recorded for the Starray name.
However, Geely’s competitive pricing, advanced technology, and strong sales in China provide a solid foundation for success. The Starray EM-i’s long hybrid range, fast-charging capability, and V2L functionality cater to Australian consumers’ demand for versatile, eco-friendly vehicles.
Looking Ahead
The Geely Starray EM-i is set to make waves in Australia’s mid-size SUV market when it launches in Q4 2025. With its advanced E-Motive Intelligence Super Hybrid powertrain, competitive pricing, and robust feature set, it offers a compelling alternative to established rivals like the BYD Sealion 6 and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. As Geely continues to expand its electrified portfolio in Australia, the Starray EM-i represents a pivotal step in the brand’s ambition to lead the charge toward sustainable mobility. For Australian consumers seeking an affordable, tech-rich, and eco-conscious SUV, the Starray EM-i could be the ideal choice.
