Geely Starray EM-i

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The Geely Starray EM-i is a new plug-in hybrid SUV for the UK with up to 84 miles electric range, loads of space and strong tech. Coming soon to lease.

Posted on 11 Feb 2026 Posted by Ben Freakley

Geely Starray EM-i: coming soon to lease with Rivervale

Geely is launching it's second car in UK in under 6 months; the Starray EM-i, a plug-in hybrid SUV that’s been designed to feel like a modern EV in day-to-day use, but with the back-up of petrol power for longer journeys.

If you want an SUV that’s practical, comfortable, packed with tech, and easy to live with, this is one to watch.

Why the Starray EM-i could fit your routine

Plug-in hybrids only make sense when you can actually use the electric side regularly. The Starray EM-i is set up to do exactly that, with two battery options depending on trim:

  • Up to 51 miles electric range (WLTP) on the 18.4 kWh battery
  • Up to 84 miles electric range (WLTP) on the 29.8 kWh battery (Ultra)

That kind of range can cover a lot of weekly driving, especially commutes, school runs, and local errands, while still giving you petrol support for weekends away and motorway trips.

Geely also says a pre-launch UK road trip covered 500+ miles on one full charge and one tank of fuel, which is a good indicator of the real-world efficiency focus here.

Practicality: loads of space and storage

This looks like a proper “daily driver” SUV, not just something that photographs well.

Highlights include:

  • 528 litres of boot space
  • Up to 2,065 litres with the rear seats folded
  • Geely quotes 30+ storage compartments throughout the cabin

It’s the little usability touches that make a difference too. Cup holders you can actually use, sensible places to stash cables and keys, and a cabin layout that doesn’t feel like a gimmick.

Tech that feels current

Inside, the Starray EM-i leans hard into the modern, connected feel:

  • 15.4-inch central infotainment screen
  • 10.2-inch driver display
  • Head-up display on Max and Ultra

It also runs Geely’s FLYME AUTO infotainment, with built-in services and apps. That includes features like integrated navigation and in-car media apps (including Spotify), so you’re not relying purely on phone mirroring for everyday use.

You still get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto too, which most drivers will use day to day.

Ambient cabin feel and comfort

If you like a cabin that feels calm and premium, the Starray EM-i seems to deliver.

  • 256-colour ambient lighting on higher trims gives you that colour-changing interior glow at night
  • Panoramic power sunroof on Max and Ultra helps the cabin feel bright and airy

Heated front seats are standard, with extra comfort features on higher trims. This is the sort of car that should suit long motorway trips as well as town driving.

How it drives: comfortable, stable, and punchy enough

From first impressions, the Starray EM-i is tuned more for comfort than performance, which is exactly what most SUV drivers want.

You can expect:

  • Good composure over bumps and rougher road surfaces
  • A stable, planted feel through corners
  • Smooth transitions between EV driving and petrol power
  • Punchy acceleration for joining motorways and overtaking, without pretending to be a sports SUV

There are also different drive modes (including Pure EV, Hybrid and Power) so you can choose what suits your trip.

Safety and build quality: a very “European” feel

Geely has spoken publicly about investing heavily in safety engineering and building its own advanced safety test facilities. Add in the wider Geely Group connection to Volvo (a brand known for safety), and it’s no surprise the Starray EM-i gives off a reassuring, solid feel.

It also offers a strong safety and driver assistance package, including:

  • Level 2 driver assistance features
  • A 540-degree camera system on Pro
  • A suite of lane, braking and blind-spot support systems

Overall, the build quality and cabin finish feel closer to what you’d expect from established European brands than a “new to the UK” nameplate.

Want to lease the Geely Starray EM-i?

The Geely Starray EM-i is expected to be available to lease soon on Personal Contract Hire (PCH) and Business Contract Hire (BCH).

At Rivervale, we can help you compare trims, choose the right mileage and term, and find a deal that fits your budget.

Register your interest today and we’ll let you know as soon as pricing and availability go live.

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