Car of the day: the Geely Starray is a lot of SUV for not much cash
Car changing is a big deal
The name Geely Starray may not carry much badge kudos, but this Chinese hybrid SUV has a lot going for it including a posh interior and a bargain price tag.
Keeping up with all the new Chinese cars entering UK showrooms can be tricky, but the Geely Starray is one worthy of your attention. It comes from the same company which owns well-known brands like Volvo and Lotus, and here’s why this plug-in hybrid SUV could slot into your life very nicely.
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
Why is the Geely Starray a good car?
Like most Chinese cars, the Geely Starray is great value for money. We’ll get onto money in a minute though, because there’s more to this car than the price tag.
When you step inside, there is no indication that this is a budget-friendly car. All the materials feel really posh. We like the interior design as well, with a tall centre console making you feel cocooned and some funky wood trim lifting things nicely.
It’s also really spacious. The rear seats offer loads of legroom, and it’s not much of a squeeze to fit three people in the back. It feels roomier than a Chery Tiggo 7, and the 528 litres of boot space is among the best in this class.
The 1.5-litre petrol plug-in hybrid system feels smooth and responsive, and models with the larger of two battery sizes can do an impressive 84 miles on electric power alone. It’s pretty comfortable as well, if not as engaging as a Ford Puma on a twisty road.
Geely Starray prices and deals
It’s the value for money which really sets the Geely Starray apart from cars like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Kia Sportage, because you get an incredible amount of standard equipment for your money.
Prices start from just over £29,000, almost £10,000 less than a Tiguan, and for this you get heated front seats, artificial leather upholstery, keyless entry and adaptive cruise control.
However, the top-spec version is the best value for money, especially when you buy through Carwow. It adds a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, an electric tailgate, a heated steering wheel and a ventilated driver’s seat. You also get the larger battery with 84 miles of electric range as opposed to 52 miles in the basic car.
All this will cost you just under £35,000, but through Carwow you can get a top-spec Starray for £33,445 when you buy on PCP finance. This is partly thanks to a £1,145 deposit contribution from Geely, and Carwow savings bring the total discount to 1,545.
Things to consider before buying a Geely Starray
No car is perfect, and the Geely Starray is no exception. Here are a few drawbacks to consider before buying, as well as some alternatives to think about.
It’s not the most exciting-looking SUV out there. The Starray is handsome enough, but if you want an SUV which turns heads then a Peugeot 3008 is a better bet.
The infotainment system is also quite confusing to use. There are a few too many menus to flick though, and the lack of buttons inside makes this even more frustrating. A Skoda Karoq has a more user-friendly interior.
Finally, the Geely Starray is pretty dull to drive. If you just want something easy and relaxing to drive then it’s fine, but keen drivers will have more fun in a Ford Kuga.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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