Geely Starray EM-i Inspire 2026 review: snapshot

Anyone looking for a roomy, frugal and good value mid-size SUV should have the Geely Starray EM-i Inspire on their consideration list.

While a new brand to Australia, Geely is a giant in China and around the world. Now it has its sights set on making a mark Down Under and is hoping its new plug-in hybrid SUV will win over customers.

The range-topping Inspire is priced from just $39,990 (plus on-road costs) and comes loaded with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and tail-lights, keyless entry and ignition, power adjustable front seats with heating and a multimedia system via a 15.4-inch display.

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Explore the 2026 Geely Starray Em-I Range

Geely Starray 2026 review: EM-i Inspire long-term | Part 3 Geely Starray 2026 review: EM-i Inspire long-term | Part 2 Geely Starray 2026 review: EM-i Inspire long-term | Part 1 Geely Starray EM-i Inspire 2026 review: snapshot Geely Starray EM-i Complete 2026 review: snapshot

While the Inspire adds 19-inch alloys, a panoramic sunroof, power tailgate, ambient interior lighting and a 16-speaker, 1000-watt premium sound system.

Motivation comes from a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that’s paired to  an electric motor, for a combined output of 193kW.

This setup is supported by an 18.4kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery, which provides a claimed EV-only range of 83km, which is good for a PHEV but no longer class-leading. When driven in ‘hybrid’ mode, fuel consumption is rated at just 2.4L/100km on the combined cycle.

The Starray is covered by Geely’s seven-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and the brand is rapidly expanding its dealership and servicing footprint around Australia to both grow sales and aftersales support.