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Real-World Test Drive of the GEELY STARRAY EM-R MAX Priced at 799,900 Baht

Auto26 Aug 2026 09:00 GMT+7

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Real-World Test Drive of the GEELY STARRAY EM-R MAX Priced at 799,900 Baht

The Geely Starray EM-R is a C-SUV crossover known as the intelligent junior sibling, featuring an advanced exterior design called Vision Starburst.Its large inverted triangular Star Cluster windshield dominates the front, with a dynamic internal pattern resembling shooting stars or radiating light streaks.The intelligent split headlamp set includes DRLs flanking the windshield on both sides, while the main LED headlights are discreetly hidden at the lower corners of the bumper, enhancing a futuristic and clean front appearance. The robust front bumper features a silver skid plate, large air intakes, and a shiny silver Geely logo.








Along the body sides, a sharp waistline stretches from the headlights to the taillights. The C-pillar has a floating roof design accented with black trim, giving the roof a lifted appearance. Sporty side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals have a sleek elongated shape.The angular wheel arches and black side skirts complement the alloy wheels sized...19 inches on the top-tier model.






The rear of the GEELY vehicle is particularly appealing, from the EX5’s tail to the Starray EM-R REEV’s wing-shaped taillights. The Arrowhead LED taillights stretch across the full width as a signature design, with long red light strips curving upward at both ends resembling wings or arrowheads. The STARRAY logo sits below the taillight strip.A rear spoiler with a third LED brake light adds to the design.The rear bumper includes a silver skid plate and concealed exhaust pipes, giving the back a sleek, understated look.


The STARRAY EM-R REEV boasts a striking, unique, and futuristic exterior, with a large windshield, spear-shaped DRLs, floating roof C-pillars, and winged taillights — signature elements that make it stand out as one of the most impressive C-SUV designs of this era.

Official pricing for the GEELY STARRAY EM-R REEV (imported CBU from China):

STARRAY EM-R PRO priced at 699,900 baht.
STARRAY EM-R MAX priced at 799,900 baht.

Competitors include BYD Sealion 6, Honda CR-V, GWM Haval H6, Deepal S05, Mitsubishi XForce, Honda HR-V, and Toyota Corolla Cross.

The STARRAY EM-R measures 4,750 mm long, 1,905 mm wide, 1,680 mm tall, with a 2,775 mm wheelbase and 160 mm ground clearance. Cargo capacity ranges from 528 to 2,065 liters with the rear seats folded. The drag coefficient is 0.278.



The interior of the GEELY STARRAY EM-R MAX features a contemporary minimalist style combined with advanced digital cockpit technology. The centerpiece is a 15.4-inch HD touchscreen running Flyme Auto OS, delivering smooth responsiveness, supporting the GEELY app store, navigation, OTA updates, and 4G internet connectivity. A 10.2-inch digital LCD instrument cluster works alongside a large 13.8-inch AR-HUD head-up display. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity are included.

The premium sound system includes 14 speakers, with two highlighted units embedded in the driver’s headrest to deliver clear navigation prompts or calls without disturbing other passengers. The seating uses synthetic leather with sporty design.






The front seats feature ventilation; the driver’s seat offers 6-way electric adjustment with memory function, while the front passenger seat adjusts manually in 4 directions. Rear cabin space includes a 60:40 split folding rear seatback for flexible cargo handling, a rear center armrest, and rear privacy glass windows for added discretion.






Driver ergonomics include a multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel adjustable in four directions (height and reach). An auto-dimming rearview mirror reduces glare from trailing vehicles, enhancing nighttime safety. Comfort features include ambient lighting adjustable to 256 colors, LED reading lights, and rear cargo area illumination. Convenience is furthered by wireless phone charging, USB-A and USB-C ports in both front and rear rows, 12V power outlets, smart key access, remote window control for all four doors with independent auto-up/down, and a cargo area partition.




The powertrain consists of a 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing 99 horsepower and 125 Nm torque, used solely to generate electricity for the battery without driving the wheels. It supports E20 fuel. A single 11-in-1 electric motor delivers 218 horsepower (PS) and 262 Nm torque, driving the front wheels (FWD). Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 8.0 seconds, with a top speed of 170 km/h. Pure electric range is 150 km (NEDC). Average fuel consumption is 22.2 km/l, with a 51-liter fuel tank.

The EM-R system, standing for Electric Motive – Range Extended, is Geely’s REEV (Range Extended Electric Vehicle) technology. The system uses an electric motor to drive the front wheels 100% of the time, offering acceleration and smoothness comparable to a BEV. The 1.5-liter gasoline engine functions solely as a generator, not mechanically connected to the wheels, producing electricity to charge the battery or supply power directly to the motor when extra output is needed. The 18.4 kWh LFP battery supports both AC home charging and DC fast charging, enabling pure electric city driving.

Driving modes include three main options: Pure Mode uses battery power exclusively, shutting down the engine until battery charge drops to a preset level; Hybrid Mode automatically manages energy use, favoring battery power but starting the engine to recharge when speed or battery levels require; Power Mode runs the engine continuously to supply electricity directly to the motor alongside the battery for maximum performance. The 11-in-1 motor module integrates VCU/TCU, SiC inverter, motor, and transmission, reducing size and weight while achieving 92.5% energy transmission efficiency. Thermal Management controls temperatures of the engine, electric pump, battery, and motor to maintain efficiency during long trips.



The GEELY STARRAY EM-R REEV MAX, priced at 799,000 baht, delivers commendable driving dynamics. The brand equips it with comprehensive driver aids, comfortable suspension, and a steering wheel that is slightly sensitive but precise, aiding low-speed control. During a test drive from a showroom near Srinakarin Road to Muak Lek Reservoir in Hybrid mode at 90-100 km/h, fuel consumption was about 14.8 km/l. Driving gently in REEV mode offers some efficiency but still trails Japanese HEVs. Aggressive acceleration increases fuel use, making this vehicle less suitable for high-speed driving. Electricity consumption stands at 14.1 kWh/100 km.



The hybrid vehicle’s top MAX model, priced near 800,000 baht, offers electric front seats, a panoramic roof, power tailgate, and ample interior space. Modern Chinese cars compete with premium interior materials that exceed their price class. The seats are comfortable; the driver’s 6-way electric adjustment is adequate, though an 8-way would improve value. A favored feature is the manual mechanical side mirror control, safer and more intuitive than joystick or screen controls. The steering wheel has a flat top and bottom, providing a firm grip but a somewhat conservative, family-car style.



Noise insulation meets price-level standards, with mild tire and wind noise at 100 km/h not intrusive. The vehicle’s structure, accommodating the battery, engine, and fuel tank, is well balanced, delivering stable handling at high speeds and agility in urban driving. Removing some ADAS features might lower costs, but modern drivers often rely on lane-keeping, adaptive cruise, and comprehensive safety systems due to reduced attention spans. While ADAS aids safety, drivers focused fully on control without distractions drive more safely than solely relying on many ADAS functions.



The difference between the multi-link rear suspension on the GEELY STARRAY EM-R MAX and a torsion beam lies in structure and road grip performance. Multi-link suspensions have multiple mounting points and control arms completely separating left and right wheels, allowing independent vertical movement. When one wheel hits a bump, the impact doesn't transfer to the opposite side. In contrast, torsion beams connect rear wheels with a twisting steel beam, so impacts on one side transmit forces to the other wheel.



Road grip and rear suspension control:Multi-link suspension combined with Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance SUV tires sized 235/50R19.The tire contact patch maintains full road contact continuously,especially during sharp cornering or driving on sloped surfaces. Multiple mounting points preserve camber angles, enabling superior road grip, reduced rear-end slide, and increased confidence at high speeds. Meanwhile,torsion beam suspensions experience camber changes from beam twisting, reducing tire contact during sharp turns, increasing understeer or oversteer risk at speed. Regarding ride comfort and refinement, multi-link suspensions more effectively absorb rough or patched road impacts, reducing cabin vibrations and suspension noise. However,multi-link suspensions are more complex, heavier, require more bushings and mounts, occupy more space, and have higher production costs, leading to more maintenance points over time. Conversely, torsion beam rear suspensions are simpler, lighter, durable, and space-efficient, facilitating easier cargo area design. The GEELY STARRAY EM-R MAX pairs a multi-link rear with a MacPherson strut front suspension, delivering better ride comfort and road grip than similarly priced vehicles using torsion beam rears.(Note: Text about advantages and disadvantages of multi-link vs. torsion beam suspensions merged for clarity.)


Highlights and considerations for the GEELY STARRAY EM-R REEV MAX priced at 799,900 baht:

Performance and suspension: The multi-link rear with front MacPherson strut and Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance SUV tires (235/50R19) absorbs shocks well, provides confident high-speed stability, and smoother ride than torsion beam setups. Handling and NVH: The steering is sharp and easy to control at low speeds. Wind and tire noise insulation meets standards at 100 km/h. Interior materials and equipment: Interior build quality exceeds expectations with electric front seats, panoramic roof, power tailgate, and manual mechanical side mirror controls for safer operation compared to screen-based adjustments.

Considerations:
Hybrid mode fuel consumption at 90-100 km/h is about 14.8 km/l with electricity use at 14.1 kWh/100 km. Continuous acceleration increases fuel use, with efficiency still behind Japanese HEVs. The steering is a bit too sensitive at low speeds, and its design feels family-oriented. The full ADAS suite enhances safety but adds to vehicle cost.


Technical specifications for the MAX model priced at 799,900 baht:

Powertrain type: REEV (Range-Extended Electric Vehicle).

Drive system: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD).

Electric motor type: Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM).

Maximum motor power: 160 kW.

Maximum motor torque: 262 Nm.

Engine type: 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine.

Maximum engine power: 73 kW.

Fuel tank capacity: 51 liters.

Fuel type: Gasoline 95, compatible with E20.

Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 8 seconds.

Top speed: 170 km/h.

Driving modes: Pure, Hybrid, Power.

Battery type: Lithium iron phosphate (LFP).

Battery capacity: 18.4 kWh.

Maximum pure electric range (NEDC): 104.8 km.

Supports AC Type-2 charging up to 6.6 kW.

Supports DC CCS2 charging up to 30 kW.

Fast DC charging time (30%-80%): 20 minutes.

Regenerative braking system.

Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) power transfer capability.

Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) power transfer capability.

Suspension and brake specifications for the MAX model:

Electric Power Steering (EPS).

Front suspension: MacPherson Strut.

Rear suspension: Multi-Link.

Front brakes: Ventilated Disc Brakes.

Rear brakes: Disc Brakes.

Alloy wheel size: 19 inches.

Tire size: 235/50 R19.

Emergency tire repair kit included.

Body dimensions and weight details:

Dimensions and weight for PRO and MAX models:

Length: 4,740 mm.

Width: 1,905 mm.

Height: 1,685 mm.

Wheelbase: 2,755 mm.

Front track width: 1,625 mm.

Rear track width: 1,625 mm.

Ground clearance unloaded: 172 mm.

Ground clearance fully loaded: 150 mm.

Cargo capacity: 528 / 2,065 liters.

Curb weight: PRO = 1,730 kg; MAX = 1,770 kg.

Turning radius: 5.2 meters.

Seating capacity: 5 seats.

Exterior features specific to the MAX model:

LED headlights.

LED daytime running lights.

LED taillights.

LED rear fog lights.

Third LED brake light.

Automatic headlight on/off.

Follow Me Home delayed headlight off.

Automatic high beam control (IHBC).

Power-adjustable side mirrors.

Power-folding side mirrors.

Heated side mirrors.

Automatic front wipers.

Rear wiper with washer.

Roof rails.

Panoramic glass roof with open/close function.

Electric sunshade.

Power tailgate with touch control.

Interior equipment:

Multifunction steering wheel.

Steering wheel wrapped in microfiber leather.

Steering wheel adjustable in 4 directions (height and reach).

Auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Front sun visors with vanity mirrors.

Independent auto up/down for all 4 windows.

Privacy glass on rear windows.

Front and rear LED reading lights.

Cargo area partition.

LED rear cargo area lighting.

Synthetic leather seats.

Driver seat 6-way adjustable.

Front passenger seat 4-way adjustable.

Driver seat memory function.

Front seats with ventilation.

Rear armrest.

60:40 split-folding rear seatbacks.

10.2-inch digital LCD instrument cluster.

13.8-inch HUD head-up display.

15.4-inch HD touchscreen.

Flyme Auto intelligent infotainment OS.

Bluetooth connectivity.

Supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

4G internet connectivity.

Navigation system.

Over-the-air (OTA) software updates.

GEELY app store.


14 speakers including 2 in the driver’s headrest.

USB-A and USB-C ports in front and rear seats.

12V power outlet at front seats.

Wireless phone charger.

Ambient lighting with 256 color options.

Smart key system.

Remote window control.

Driver assistance systems:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC).

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB).

Collision Mitigation System Front (CMSF).

Collision Mitigation System Rear (CMSR).

Blind Spot Detection (BSD).

Lane Change Assist (LCA).

Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB).

Lane Departure Warning (LDW).

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA).

Emergency Lane Keeping Assist (ELKA).

Door Opening Warning (DOW).

Traffic Sign Recognition (TSI).

Front Vehicle Departure Warning (FVD).
Safety features:

Dual front airbags.

Side airbags.

Curtain airbags.

Rearview camera.

360-degree surround-view camera with transparent vehicle mode.

Front object detection radar.

Rear object detection radar.

Electric parking brake (EPB).

Auto Hold function.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).

Brake Assist System (BAS).

Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

Traction Control System (G-TCS).

Anti-Rollover Protection (ARP).

Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).

Hill Descent Control (HDC).

Post-collision braking (PIB).

Front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.

Rear seat belts with pre-tensioners.

Front seat belt reminders.

Rear seat belt reminders.

ISOFIX child seat anchors.

Child safety door locks on rear doors.

Anti-theft system.

Car alarm system.

Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) for low speeds.

Emergency tailgate unlock system.