Geely Starray: the PHEV hybrid SUV that delivers everything

We’re always going to tell you that leasing your car is by far the best way to get behind the wheel of a new car. It’s a little less straightforward when it comes to deciding which of the many options is the right lease car for you. At least, it was, but now we’re not so sure. Given how many boxes it ticks, the new Geely Starray EM-I has rendered all our previous conclusions moot.

Geely has described the new Starray EM-i as a “born Super Hybrid”, explicitly designed and engineered from the ground up as a PHEV to deliver range, performance and outstanding technology to every driver.

Rather than converting an existing model by integrating a new powertrain, the Starray EM-i has been built around Geely’s efficient plug-in hybrid drivetrain.

The sophisticated super hybrid powertrain combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a powerful electric motor, and compact automatic transmission. Together, they send a combined 258bhp to the front wheels, enabling acceleration from 0-62mph in only 8.0 seconds.

It also comes with a choice of two different Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery sizes:

• an 18.4kWh pack providing up to 51 miles of electric-only range,
• and the larger 29.8kWh pack that increases the range to 84 miles.

The 18.4kWh battery also achieves 117mpg and 54g/km CO2, while the larger battery is even more efficient, returning 201mpg and just 32g/km CO2. That should make it very affordable to run.

Topping-up the battery on longer trips is hardly a chore either, thanks to its rapid-charging capabilities.

30kW DC fast charging enables the 18.4kwh battery to be replenished from 30-80% in just 20 minutes. Go for the larger 29.8kWh battery with a 60kW DC capability and that drops to as little as 16 minutes.

Geely Starray - the SUV for all the family

As well as boasting a state-of-the-art hybrid powertrain, the Geely Starray EM-i Super Hybrid PHEV is also a five-seat, family-focused SUV.

The elegant design features ultra-slim LED headlights seamlessly integrated within a sculpted front end, which can be further enhanced with an optional slender LED front light bar. Short front and rear overhangs combine with an upright stance to project the strong road presence you would expect from an SUV.

The spacious cabin has been created with day-to-day family life in mind, offering exceptional space for five occupants, a large luggage compartment volume that boasts a wide tailgate for easier access, and more than 30 different places to stow bags, phones, tablets, kitchen sinks, and any other personal belongings you’d care to think of.

The Starray EM-i’s digital cockpit features a 15.4-inch HD central touchscreen and 10.2-inch HD driver display. An AI-driven intelligent voice assistant with more than 200 commands allows you to change settings in the climate control, navigation, infotainment, and even open and close the panoramic sunroof. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard too, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot function.

Your choice of Geely Starray

Geely will be offering the Starray EM-i in three trim levels – Pro, Max and Ultra.

The entry-level Starray EM-i Pro comes with a wide range of standard features including heated electrically adjustable front seats, and keyless entry. Stepping up the range brings additional equipment such as a panoramic sunroof and power tailgate.

Depending on your choice of trim, you could also end up with a 13.8-inch head-up display to help keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, a 15W wireless charging pad that will alert you if you forget to pick up your phone when you get out of the car, and a premium 1000W audio system with 16 speakers - including some in the headrests - and multiple sound modes.

First customer deliveries of the new Geely Starry EM-i Super Hybrid PHEV SUV begin this month, just in case you’re looking for a family SUV that offers a little bit of absolutely everything. And for Geely Starray lease deals look no further than here.