Table of Contents
Pros
- Great futuristic looks
- Comfortable for long drives
- Great cruise control system
Cons
- Head-unit is buggy and slow
- Full option can be expensive
Design and Comfort
From the moment we first laid eyes on the 2024 Geely Starray, it was immediately clear how refined, modern, and sleek its design is. Geely has clearly invested significant effort into its development, resulting in a vehicle that not only looks the part but also stands out within its segment. Notable design elements include striking color options, distinctive headlight patterns, and the bold wide LED bar at the rear, all of which contribute to its unique visual appeal.
Inside, the cabin impresses with its spacious, contemporary design, but more importantly, it offers a high level of comfort. One of the key indicators of a car’s comfort is how well it performs on longer drives, and we found the Starray to be more than capable. During our 2-hour journey from Dubai to the summit of Jabal Jais, we remained comfortable throughout, with ample legroom and headroom in all seats.
Technology and Features
The 2024 Geely Starray is equipped with a host of advanced technologies, including an impressive 12.3-inch digital cockpit display and a large, 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay on the expansive screen is a standout feature, though we did encounter occasional responsiveness issues, requiring a system reboot at times. However, this is likely a software glitch that can be addressed through future updates.
The Starray also offers a premium audio system that delivers clear, crisp sound, providing an immersive listening experience. In terms of safety, the vehicle comes well-equipped with a suite of features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist (which we found very useful during heavy traffic on Sheikh Zayed Road), and a 360-degree camera system, enhancing both convenience and security. Additionally, the cabin benefits from advanced climate control and ambient lighting, which together elevate the overall comfort and driving experience, making the Starray a well-rounded and tech-forward offering in its segment
Drive-by Videos
It took us a moment to fully appreciate, but the color choice on this particular model is truly unique. The paint exhibits a dynamic shift in hue depending on the angle and lighting conditions, transitioning from a light violet in shaded areas to a deeper, bluish-purple under direct sunlight. This distinctive color-changing effect adds an extra layer of visual appeal to the vehicle.
Performance
The 2024 Geely Starray delivers a well-rounded performance, blending power and efficiency seamlessly. Although we’ve driven numerous 2.0-liter engines, this one stood out with its impressive responsiveness, delivering additional power exactly when needed. It handled the winding roads of Jabal Jais with ease, effortlessly overtaking slower traffic.
This performance, combined with its efficient powertrain, ensures excellent fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for both urban and long-distance driving. The 6-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, providing uninterrupted power delivery and enhancing ride comfort. Handling is notably agile, with responsive steering and a stable, composed feel, even on tight corners and winding roads. While the suspension is primarily tuned for comfort, it retains enough firmness to maintain stability at higher speeds, making the Starray a balanced and confident performer in a variety of driving conditions.
Interior features
As mentioned earlier, the color choices in the Geely Starray exude a sense of luxury, and this extends to the interior as well. The tan upholstery creates a plush, premium atmosphere, seamlessly complementing the vehicle’s overall design. A particularly noteworthy feature is the steering wheel, which surprised us with its sleek, flat-top and bottom design—typically seen in more high-end vehicles. While initially striking, we quickly grew accustomed to its ergonomic shape. Coupled with the heads-up display, it contributed to a highly enjoyable and engaging driving experience.
The 12.3-inch cockpit screen provided all essential information in a clear, concise manner, ensuring a smooth, distraction-free drive. Additionally, the expansive sunroof allowed natural light to flood the cabin, further enhancing the sense of openness and highlighting the car’s sophisticated interior design. The Starray’s interior successfully blends functionality with a premium feel, creating a comfortable and visually appealing environment for both driver and passengers.
Final thoughts
Overall, Geely has clearly demonstrated its intent to compete in the mid-range SUV segment. By incorporating premium features into this category, the brand positions itself as a formidable challenger to its American and European counterparts. While not the most affordable option—particularly with the model we tested priced at AED 114,500—the Starray offers a compelling proposition for buyers seeking a sophisticated, premium appearance without the high price tag typically associated with such vehicles. Geely’s strategy is evident: to provide a well-rounded, premium-feeling SUV at a competitive price, making it an appealing choice for a segment of consumers looking for value without compromise.
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