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A New Contender in the Australian Plug‑In Hybrid Market
John Law of Chasing Cars introduces the Star Ray EMI, a plug‑in hybrid from a new Chinese brand that has just joined the Australian fleet. The vehicle promises a competitive price, a sizeable 17‑kWh battery, and a range that rivals more established hybrids. With a launch price of around $3,9900 before on‑road costs, the Star Ray EMI positions itself as one of the most affordable plug‑in hybrids available, even cheaper than the Toyota RAV4 hybrid and the BYDC Lion 5.
Design and Styling
The Star Ray EMI’s exterior is understated yet purposeful. Its jungle‑green paint gives it a subtle presence, while the front fascia features a blend of LED lighting and a 19‑inch alloy wheel package. The rear mirrors have colored caps, and silver roof rails add a touch of refinement. The overall shape feels familiar, with hints of Porsche Cayenne styling at the rear, but it remains a distinct, handsome vehicle rather than a bold design statement.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Star Ray EMI is a front‑wheel‑drive plug‑in hybrid that relies heavily on its electric motor. The 1.5‑litre petrol engine produces 73 kW, while the electric motor delivers 160 kW. The 17‑kWh lithium‑ion phosphate battery offers an EV‑only range of about 83 km according to the manufacturer, but real‑world tests show roughly 70 km, with 20 % of the battery kept in reserve. The car’s powertrain blends smoothly, and the electric‑only mode is quiet and serene, making it well suited for city driving and short commutes.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Star Ray EMI offers a surprisingly generous cabin for its price. Standard equipment includes a wireless charging pad, heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, a large touchscreen, a digital driver display, and a head‑up display. The vehicle also comes with a multi‑function sound system and a suite of physical shortcut buttons for the HVAC system, including a scroll wheel that can be customized for volume, air speed, and temperature. Storage is ample, with a deep centre bin and capacious door bins, though the cup holders are notably small.
However, the infotainment experience is not without flaws. The touch‑screen controls for the fuel filler flap and the charge ports are inconvenient, requiring the driver to navigate through several menus. The charge ports themselves are located on the right side of the vehicle, making curbside charging awkward. Additionally, the safety systems—driver‑attention monitoring, speed‑sign assist, and lane‑keep assist—are overly sensitive, often triggering false alerts and requiring the driver to turn them off each time the vehicle is started, a process that can take up to fifteen taps.
Driving Experience and Comfort
On the road, the Star Ray EMI delivers a quiet, smooth ride. The blend of electric and petrol power is generally well executed, and the vehicle feels stable on country roads. However, the brake pedals can feel snatchy at low speeds, and the overall ride is described as soft and somewhat squishy. The lack of rebound after hitting bumps suggests that the suspension could benefit from slightly firmer springs and dampers. Despite these minor issues, the car offers adequate control and composure, especially when paired with Goodyear tires.
Long‑Term Testing and Future Plans
John Law plans to keep the Star Ray EMI for a three‑month, 5,000‑km test period. During this time, the channel will evaluate the vehicle’s real‑world EV range, highway performance, and overall durability. The long‑term test is crucial for a new brand, as it can reveal whether the car remains reliable after the initial novelty wears off. Viewers are encouraged to suggest specific tests or features they’d like to see explored during the trial.
By sharing these insights, Chasing Cars aims to provide potential buyers with a realistic picture of what to expect from the Star Ray EMI, helping them decide whether this new entrant can hold its own against more established hybrids in the Australian market.