China’s latest EV sensation isn’t a Tesla rival - it’s a tough, boxy off-roader with G-Wagon looks and a Suzuki Jimny price tag. Meet the ICaur V23, a small electric SUV from Chery’s new adventure-focused sub-brand, ICaur (known locally as iCar).
Since launching in early 2024, ICaur has exploded in popularity across China. Its first model, the iCar 03, sold nearly 66,000 units in under a year, and sightings of the new V23 are now everywhere - in cities, on transport trucks, and parked outside restaurants.
And soon, you might start seeing them here too.
What is ICaur?
ICaur’s slogan, “Born to Play,” says it all. The brand targets young drivers and anyone with a playful, adventurous streak. It’s a collaboration between Chery - China’s biggest car exporter – and Smartmi Tech, a supplier linked to tech giant Xiaomi.
The idea is to blend rugged off-road engineering with cutting-edge connectivity - creating EVs that feel as ready for a trail as they do for TikTok.
The V23 is ICaur’s first global model and showcases that balance perfectly: it’s compact, fully electric, capable off-road, and cleverly designed for daily urban use.
The brand has ambitious expansion plans too. It’s targeting 100 markets within three years and planning over 2,000 global service and sales centres - including, it’s rumoured, a UK launch by 2027.
Style and Design
Imagine a mash-up of a Ford Bronco, Suzuki Jimny, and Mercedes G-Wagon - and you’re close to the V23’s vibe.
The front has a Bronco-style closed grille and circular headlights, while the short, upright body channels the Jimny’s energy. The squared-off rear end and spare-wheel box nod directly to the G-Wagon.
It’s chunky and playful at once - equal parts rugged 4x4 and trendy city SUV. Expect flared arches, side steps, and a boxy stance that screams adventure, but with the colourful, youthful energy that’s made it a hit in urban China.
Inside the ICaur V23
Step inside, and the retro styling gives way to something fully futuristic. The 15.4-inch touchscreen, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon SA8155 chip, runs a slick, app-style interface that feels like an iPhone dashboard. Navigation, music, shopping, and cameras are all just a tap away, and voice control plus Apple CarPlay come as standard.
A digital driver display keeps things minimal and clear, while tactile aluminium knobs and toggle switches below the screen handle key controls like climate and drive modes - reminiscent of the Ineos Grenadier.
The cabin mixes durable materials with flair: wipe-clean pleather, red stitching, grab handles, and bright seatbelts. It’s stylish, solid, and designed for everyday adventure.
Power and Performance
Under the skin, the V23 sits on a new platform built for both city driving and serious off-road use.
The dual-motor AWD version delivers 207hp from an 81.8kWh battery, with 0–60mph in 7.2 seconds and a top speed of 86mph. Range is claimed at 260 miles (420km) under older Chinese test standards — expect slightly less under Europe’s WLTP system.
Fast charging from 20–80% takes just 42 minutes at up to 104kW.
While it’s not a performance monster, the V23’s intelligent all-wheel drive (i-AWD) and adjustable off-road settings (pitch, roll, power distribution) give it real trail credibility. On city roads, it’s surprisingly agile, with tight steering and a commanding ride height that feels both fun and confident.
Price and Market Potential
At the equivalent of £22,000, the ICaur V23 massively undercuts almost any other EV SUV - especially anything with genuine off-road ability.
Its closest rival, the Suzuki Jimny, isn’t even sold new in the UK anymore due to emissions rules, and certainly not as an EV. That leaves a huge gap in the market - and ICaur looks perfectly placed to fill it.
If Chery does bring the V23 to Britain, expect big demand from younger drivers and anyone wanting a stylish, capable electric 4x4 that doesn’t cost a fortune.
