Geely Starray EM-i gains AWD flagship – how much is it?
Words: Kyle Cassidy
Geely will expand its Starray EM-i range in early October with a new all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid.
The new AWD flagship adds a rear electric motor, bringing combined outputs of 220kW and 412Nm, along with a claimed 0–100km/h time of 6.3 seconds.
The Starray EM-i AWD will land priced from $55,990 plus on-road costs. For reference, the Starray EM-i Complete starts at $45,990, while the extended range model is $52,990.
The new AWD model offers up to 130km of electric-only range under WLTP testing. That gives buyers scope to cover everyday commuting on battery power, provided they plug in regularly, while retaining a petrol engine for longer journeys.
A 29.8kWh battery and 60-litre fuel tank contribute to a claimed combined WLTP range of up to 1065km.
The additional rear motor produces 80kW and 150Nm, allowing the hybrid system to employ all four wheels when required.
Snow and Off-road settings join the existing Pure, Hybrid and Power drive modes, while the AWD model also features five-link rear suspension.
“The Starray EM-i AWD brings together electric driving for everyday journeys, petrol-backed flexibility for longer travel and all-wheel-drive confidence when conditions change,” said Geely New Zealand brand manager Jordan Haines.
“That combination is particularly relevant in New Zealand, where drivers can move between urban roads, motorways, gravel routes and regional roads within the same journey.”
The five-seat cabin carries over from the existing Starray EM-i range, with a generous equipment list accompanying the extra performance and traction.
Heated, ventilated and massaging front seats are included, along with a panoramic opening sunroof and sunshade. There’s also a 13.4-inch head-up display and a 16-speaker Flyme Audio sound system.
Other features include 19-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera and a powered tailgate. Geely lists driver assistance and active safety systems among the equipment, although the announcement does not detail individual functions.
The Starray EM-i AWD uses Geely’s Global Intelligent Electric Architecture, which brings the vehicle’s electrical, software and connectivity systems together within one platform.
Charging rates, charging times and luggage capacity weren’t included in the announcement. The new AWD variant is due through authorised Geely retailers in early October.
