Geely Reveals High-Performance AWD Starray EM-i Hybrid for Australian Market

Geely has officially unveiled a range-topping all-wheel-drive (AWD) version of its Starray EM-i, a vehicle widely recognized in Malaysia as the Proton eMas 7 PHEV, with the first units scheduled to reach Australian showrooms by mid-September 2026.

According to the original publisher, the new Inspire AWD trim integrates a rear-mounted electric motor providing an additional 109 PS and 150 Nm of torque. When combined with the existing 218 PS/262 Nm front electric motor and the 99 PS/125 Nm 1.5-litre BHE15 naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine, the total system output reaches 299 PS and 412 Nm. While this represents an increase of 37 PS over the front-wheel-drive configuration, the performance gains are significant, with the AWD model cutting its zero-to-100 km/h sprint time to 6.3 seconds—nearly two seconds faster than its sibling.

Technical mechanics for the new variant rely on the 11-in-1 dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) and the largest available 29.8 kWh Aegis short blade LFP battery. While the added weight of the AWD system results in a minor dip in pure electric range—130 km compared to 136 km on the WLTP cycle—the vehicle compensates with a larger 60-litre fuel tank. This allows for a combined total range of 1,065 km. Additionally, the Australian-spec AWD model supports DC fast charging at 78 kW, an improvement over the 60 kW capacity found in the eMas 7 PHEV.

For Malaysian consumers, the arrival of this AWD variant introduces a high-performance alternative to the current electrified SUV segment. With the local market currently navigating a complex fuel subsidy landscape—where unsubsidized RON95 sits at RM3.82 and diesel at RM4.72—the efficiency of the EM-i system is becoming increasingly relevant. A combined fuel consumption of 1.7 litres per 100 km positions this vehicle as a pragmatic choice for those looking to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs without sacrificing power or traction.

The potential for this trim to be introduced to the Malaysian market via the Proton eMas 7 lineup represents a significant shift in local expectations for plug-in hybrids. If introduced, it would target buyers who prioritize both the long-range capabilities of a traditional internal combustion engine and the performance characteristics of an AWD electric powertrain. This could appeal to the growing demographic of tech-savvy urban professionals who are sensitive to the 1.8% headline inflation rate and are looking for long-term value in their automotive investments.

The broader Malaysian automotive industry is currently in a state of rapid transition. Supported by a healthy 6.0% real GDP growth and a stable unemployment rate of 3.0%, local interest in EVs and hybrids continues to accelerate. The move toward more complex hybrid systems aligns with the government’s push for green technology adoption and fleet electrification, potentially influencing future infrastructure requirements such as expanded DC fast-charging networks across the country.

However, many details regarding the local roadmap remain unconfirmed. It is currently unknown if Proton intends to offer the Inspire AWD trim as part of the eMas 7 range in Malaysia or if the specific Australian charging and fuel tank configurations will be adapted for our local market conditions. As it stands, the Australian launch serves as a benchmark for the platform’s capabilities in international markets.