GeelyStarray

The Geely Starray EM-i is a plug-in hybrid family SUV, 4.74 m long, sold in the UK in Pro (£29,990), Max (£32,690) and Ultra (£34,990) trims. Geely calls the system a 'super hybrid': it is designed to run mostly on electricity, with the petrol engine supporting it on longer trips.

## Engine, economy and charging

A 1.5-litre petrol engine (98 hp) works with a 214 hp electric motor, for a combined 258 hp and 262 Nm through the front wheels. Pro and Max models have an 18.4 kWh battery with 51 miles of WLTP electric range and 117.7 mpg. The Ultra's 29.8 kWh pack gives up to 84 electric miles, 201.8 mpg and a combined range of up to 618 miles. DC charging runs at 30 kW (Pro/Max) or 60 kW (Ultra), taking 20 or 16 minutes respectively for a 30–80% charge.

## Performance and driving

Geely quotes 0–62 mph in 8.0 seconds for both battery sizes, and top speed is 105 mph. In electric mode it is smooth and quiet. Once the battery is flat, testers recorded economy in the low 40s mpg, so regular charging is what keeps running costs down.

## Interior and space

The boot is a large 528 litres, or 2,065 litres with the rear seats folded, and rear passengers get generous space. All versions have heated, power-adjusted front seats, synthetic leather and 19-inch alloys. The Max adds a panoramic sunroof, power tailgate, ventilated driver's seat with memory, and 256-colour ambient lighting.

## Technology and safety

Every Starray has a 15.4-inch touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 360-degree camera. Max and Ultra add a 13.8-inch head-up display, a 16-speaker Flyme audio system and wireless charging. Blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert and lane assistance are standard, and the Starray has a five-star Euro NCAP rating.

## Who is it for?

Families who want to do most local driving on electricity but keep the freedom of petrol for long trips. Rivals include the BYD Seal U DM-i, Jaecoo 7 SHS-P and MG HS Plug-in Hybrid.