Geely Starray EM-i AWD Launches in Australia
Geely has launched an all-wheel-drive variant of its Starray EM-i plug-in hybrid SUV in Australia. The Inspire AWD model produces 299 PS and 412 Nm, offers 130 km of WLTP electric range, and has a total claimed range of 1,065 km.
Geely has announced a new all-wheel-drive variant of its Starray EM-i plug-in hybrid SUV, with the first units arriving in Australian showrooms in mid-September 2026. According to a report from Paul Tan's Automotive News, this Inspire AWD trim adds a rear electric motor to the existing powertrain. For those interested in the detailed technical specifications of such advanced powertrains, our stats page provides comprehensive data.
The new rear motor contributes 109 PS and 150 Nm. It is combined with the existing front powertrain, which consists of a 218 PS/262 Nm front electric motor, a 99 PS/125 Nm 1.5-litre BHE15 naturally-aspirated engine, and a single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT). The total system output is 299 PS and 412 Nm.
Powertrain and Performance Specifications
The total system output represents a 37 PS increase over the front-wheel-drive model. The added power cuts the claimed 0-100 km/h acceleration time to 6.3 seconds, nearly two seconds quicker than the FWD variant.
| Specification | Inspire AWD | Inspire (FWD) |
|---|---|---|
| Total System Output | 299 PS / 412 Nm | 262 PS (not specified in source) |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.3 seconds | Not specified (approx. 8.3s implied) |
| EV Range (WLTP) | 130 km | 136 km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 litres | 51 litres |
| Total Range (Claimed) | 1,065 km | 996 km |
| Combined Fuel Consumption | 1.7 L/100km | 1.6 L/100km |
The AWD model uses the largest available 29.8 kWh Aegis short blade LFP battery. Its larger 60-litre fuel tank contributes to the extended total range. Australian-spec models can accept DC fast charging at up to 78 kW, while AC charging is capped at 6.6 kW.
Chassis and Drive Mode Updates
To accommodate the rear motor, the suspension has been redesigned. The Inspire AWD uses a five-link rear setup, replacing the four-link design found on front-wheel-drive models. Geely claims this improves ride comfort, handling, and stability.
The drive mode selection has been expanded. New Snow and Off-road modes join the existing Pure, Hybrid, and Power settings.
Feature Set and Market Positioning
Equipment levels mirror the standard Inspire trim. Key features include 19-inch alloy wheels, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 15.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, a head-up display, and a panoramic sunroof. The front seats are powered, heated, ventilated, and include massage functions.
Other amenities are a 256-colour ambient lighting system, a 16-speaker Flyme Audio sound system, a 360-degree camera, a full suite of driver assistance systems, and a powered tailgate.
In Australia, the Inspire AWD is priced at AU$44,990. The report speculates on a potential launch for its twin, the Proton eMas 7 PHEV, in Malaysia. It notes that Malaysian buyers are not traditionally big purchasers of all-wheel-drive SUVs, though they "would always like more power." The addition of the rear motor could push the Malaysian price beyond RM130,000. You can track the market performance and competitive positioning of vehicles like this in our standings section.
