The all-new Geely Starray is a cosmic crossover

The earliest known civilisations have shown great interest in celestial bodies. The Pyramids of Giza, for example, are said to be aligned with Orion's Belt. And we in the modern world have also shown reverence for these astronomical entities. The Japanese automaker Subaru exemplifies this with its logo, which features six stars representing the Pleiades cluster.

- George Kuruvilla

Speaking of which, more recently, we've had the good fortune to get behind the wheel of the all new Geely Starray. Besides having a name and design cues that call on the stars, it also aims to earn as many as possible. So, does it hit the mark or miss it? Here's the full scoop:

Design and aesthetics

The Starray is yet another compact crossover, but it maintains a tasteful distinction over its rivals thanks to a design inspired by the stunning, sci-fi-like Geely Vision Starburst concept. With its sharp details, sculpted bodywork, and tapering motifs, it effortlessly conveys motion and speed. The most eye-catching elements are the "Stars-aligned" DRLs and "Particle Ray Headlights" (both LEDs) that merge seamlessly with the blacked-out "Lightwave Ripple" front grille-like blocks in a pixelated screen. The squarish wheel arches and dual-tone paint job also add extra visual appeal. The trained eye may also find that the vehicle's silhouette and "Full-arrow full width tail lamps" share an uncanny resemblance to the GAC Emkoo's-not a bad thing considering both have attractive exteriors. Furthermore, continuing the theme are 20-inch Galactic wheels that our top-spec test vehicle rolled on. With its allure, the Starray brings aspirational qualities to the Chinese crossover segment, vehicles that were previously seen as mere commuters. A cosmic change, I suppose.