Geely's New Hybrid SUV Could Be Australia's Cheapest PHEV

Geely isn’t wasting any time in its Australian comeback. After launching the EX5 electric SUV at a jaw-dropping $40,990 plus on-road costs, the Chinese automotive giant is already hinting at its next move: a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUV. If its pricing follows Geely’s aggressive strategy, it might just become the cheapest PHEV in Australia.

▶️MORE: 2025 Geely EX5 Price and Specs

A New PHEV Contender on the Horizon

During Geely’s official Australian launch event, a teaser video revealed six vehicles covered under black cloth. Only one model was partially unveiled alongside the EX5, and it closely resembles the Geely Galaxy Starship 7, a mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV that recently debuted in China.

Although the name might change for the Australian market, the Starship 7 is expected to go head-to-head with the likes of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and the BYD Sealion 6. If the price gap seen in China translates locally, we could be looking at an entry point of around $37,000 before on-road costs, meaning it will likely be the cheapest PHEV available in the Australian market.

▶️MORE: Geely EX5 Pricing Leaked

What We Know About the Starship 7 Key Specs

If the Chinese specifications carry over, the Starship 7 will come with an 82kW/136Nm 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with a 160kW/262Nm electric motor. Buyers will have the option of an 8.5kWh or a larger 19.09kWh battery pack, delivering between 55km and 120km of pure electric range (CLTC cycle). When operating in hybrid mode, the claimed total driving range stretches up to a staggering 1420km.

The larger battery even supports 36kW DC fast charging, allowing a 30% to 80% top-up in just 20 minutes, a rare feature in this price segment and PHEVs generally.

Dimensions

The Starship 7 shares its underpinnings with the EX5, both riding on Geely’s GEA platform, but offers slightly larger dimensions. It’s 5mm longer in wheelbase (2755mm), 4mm wider (1905mm), and 125mm longer overall (4740mm). Inside, it sports a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, though with a slightly different centre console layout compared to its fully electric sibling.

▶️MORE: 5 Cheapest Electric Cars in Australia (2025)

How It Stacks Up Against the Competition

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has long been the go-to choice for Australians seeking an efficient and practical SUV. However, Geely’s sharp pricing will almost certainly under cut the RAV4 which is priced at $46,732 to $63,621 drive-away.

Perhaps most importantly for Australian buyers, Geely has committed to local suspension calibration. If the EX5’s tuning is anything to go by, the Starship 7 should be well-equipped to handle Australian roads.

▶️MORE: 2025 Tesla Model Y Specs & Features

Geely’s Growing Footprint in Australia

Geely isn’t just bringing new models, it’s clear it is building a strong foundation for long-term success. The brand has already confirmed plans to establish over 100 dealerships across Australia and New Zealand. This aggressive expansion signals a clear intent to become a major player in the Australian EV market.

And this is just the beginning. Geely has announced plans for five new hybrid or electric models within the next three years. Every car in its six-vehicle lineup by 2028 will be based on the ‘Geely Global Architecture,’ with hints that more models from the Galaxy brand, such as the E8 electric sedan and the Star 8 plug-in hybrid sedan could follow.

Meanwhile, Geely’s electric ute brand, Riddara, is also set to hit Australian showrooms. While it’s unclear if it will carry the Geely badge, it’s another sign that the automaker is serious about challenging both passenger car and commercial vehicle segments.

🔃 Comprehensive Guide on Bidirectional Charging

Final Thoughts: A New Era for Hybrid SUVs?

Geely’s Starship 7, if officially confirmed, could be a major disruptor in Australia’s growing hybrid SUV market. With the potential to undercut competitors like the RAV4 and BYD Sealion 6 by thousands of dollars, it might just be the most affordable plug-in hybrid SUV in the country.

▶️BEFORE YOU LEAVE: Explore Zecar's Electric Vehicle Database