The Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 PHEV Just Got a Major Upgrade – But Is It Enough to Dominate the Market?
2-minute read
February 19, 2026, 6:18 AM CET
The automotive world is buzzing with the latest update to the Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 plug-in hybrid sedan, and it’s not just a minor tweak. According to documents from the Chinese MIIT, this refreshed model packs a larger 28.3 kWh battery, significantly boosting its pure electric range to 170 km under CLTC conditions—a whopping 45 km increase over its predecessor. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this enough to keep it competitive in an increasingly crowded EV market?
Under the hood, the Starshine 6 retains its familiar 1.5-liter engine, delivering 82 kW (110 hp), paired with the same plug-in hybrid powertrain. While the electric motor specs are yet to be officially confirmed, this update clearly prioritizes range over raw power. And this is the part most people miss: the exterior design remains unchanged, sticking to its signature trapezoidal grille, chrome accents, and sleek through-type taillights. It’s a safe bet, but does it risk blending into the background?
For context, the current Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 offers 8.5 kWh and 17 kWh battery options, with CLTC ranges of 60 km and 125 km, respectively. Its EM-i NordThor Hybrid 2.0 system combines the same 82 kW engine with a 120 kW (161 hp) front electric motor, mated to an E-DHT. Available in seven trims, the current model ranges from 74,800 to 105,800 yuan (10,800 to 15,300 USD), proving to be a hit since its launch in October 2025. Sales figures speak volumes: 1,532 units in the first month, followed by 6,433 in November and 8,708 in December. Impressive, right?
But here’s a twist: earlier this month, the Chinese MIIT also revealed a methanol plug-in hybrid variant of the Starshine 6. Powered by a 93 kW (125 hp) 1.5-liter engine and a lithium iron phosphate battery, this version hints at Geely’s ambition to explore alternative fuels. Is methanol the future, or just a niche experiment?
Dimensions-wise, the updated model stays consistent: 4806/1886/1490 mm (l/w/h), with a 2756 mm wheelbase and a 1625 kg curb weight. It’s a familiar package, but in a market demanding innovation, will familiarity breed success or stagnation?
What do you think? Is the larger battery enough to keep the Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 ahead of the curve, or does it need bolder changes to stand out? Let us know in the comments below!
Source: Chinese MIIT
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