Geely Starray EM-i upgraded for Australia: Bigger battery, more range, more dollars for PHEV SUV
Chinese brand Geely Auto has updated its Starray EM-i plug-in hybrid SUV for 2027, headlined by a larger battery option that boosts electric driving range and improves efficiency.
Available on the flagship Starray EM-i Inspire grade, the new 29.8kWh battery replaces the previous 18.4kWh unit and lifts the SUV’s claimed electric-only driving range from 83km to 136km on the WLTP test cycle.
The larger battery also increases the Starray EM-i Inspire’s total claimed driving range from 943km to 996km, while theoretical lab-based fuel consumption drops from 2.4L/100km to a claimed 1.4L/100km.
READ MORE: Highly charged: Geely challenges BYD fast-charging supremacy with battery taking 4 minutes for a 10-70 per cent top-up
READ MORE: Geely’s Aussie model expansion: New sedan and SUV to share spotlight with EX2 at Melbourne motor show
READ MORE: Geely EX5 upgrade announced: More range, more equipment, more dollars
Geely says DC fast-charging performance has also improved, with maximum charging speed increasing from 30kW to 60kW. The company claims the larger battery can be charged from 30 to 80 per cent in 16 minutes.
The updated variant, now badged the Starray EM-i Inspire Extended Range, is priced from $41,490 before on-road costs, representing a $1500 increase over the outgoing Inspire model.
The entry-level Starray EM-i Complete remains unchanged mechanically and continues with the existing 18.4kWh battery pack. It is priced from $37,490 before on-road costs.
Alongside the battery upgrade, Geely has added several specification changes across the MY27 range, including a five-metre Mode 2 charging cable, towing preparation and trailer stability assist. The Inspire grade also gains front-seat massage functionality.
The updated Starray EM-i arrives as competition intensifies in Australia’s growing plug-in hybrid SUV segment, where rivals include the BYD Sealion 6, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and MG HS Super Hybrid.
Geely said the larger 29.8kWh battery was previously used locally in a Starray EM-i that completed a Sydney-to-Melbourne drive as part of a Guinness World Record fuel consumption attempt for a plug-in hybrid SUV. According to the company, the vehicle recorded an average fuel consumption figure of 3.83L/100km during the drive.
The updated MY27 Geely Starray EM-i range is due in Australian dealerships from late May 2026.
The upgraded Starray follows a boosted Geely EX5 EV on-sale in Australia, with the entry-level EX2 EV coming soon.
