Chery, a Chinese automotive manufacturer, is preparing to introduce a new electric off-road sub-brand to the Australian market under the name iCaur. Originally known as iCar in its home country, the brand will adopt the iCaur name for international markets due to a trademark issue. The first model expected to be launched under this new label is the V23, an all-electric SUV designed as a competitor to the Suzuki Jimny. Slightly larger than the Jimny, the V23 measures 4.2 meters in length and will be offered with electric and eventually range-extender hybrid powertrains. It features all-wheel drive and is expected to deliver up to 500 kilometers of driving range, likely measured under the more generous Chinese CLTC test cycle.
At the Shanghai Motor Show, a representative from iCar revealed that the company intends to begin selling in right-hand-drive markets across Southeast Asia by the end of the year, with plans to expand into broader global territories by mid-2026. Australia is on the list for future rollout, although specific timelines remain unconfirmed. Reports also indicate that the United Kingdom will be another key market for iCaur, where it will eventually offer additional models including the V25 – a hybrid SUV similar in size to the Jeep Wrangler – in late 2026, followed by the smaller V21 electric SUV in 2027.
Another vehicle in the iCaur portfolio is the 03, which draws heavy design inspiration from the Land Rover Defender. This model is already available in some right-hand-drive markets under the name J6, a product of another Chery sub-brand, Jaecoo.
In terms of dimensions, the iCaur V23 is notably larger than the five-door Jimny, coming in at 4220mm in length and 1915mm in width. While its rugged exterior has drawn comparisons to the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series, its styling also pays homage to the classic 40 Series. Designed to accommodate four passengers, the V23 boasts a spacious and modern interior featuring a 15.4-inch touchscreen and practical rotary dials for key controls like air conditioning and drive modes. Off-road capabilities are supported by 210mm of ground clearance, along with 43-degree approach and 41-degree departure angles.
In China, the V23 is available with either a 100kW/180Nm rear electric motor powered by a 47.3kWh or 59.9kWh battery, offering a range of 301km or 401km respectively on the CLTC cycle. A more powerful all-wheel-drive variant includes an additional 55kW front motor for a combined output of 155kW and 292Nm, linked to an 81.8kWh battery that allows for a 501km CLTC range. Under the more conservative WLTP test cycle used in Australia, this range is expected to be closer to 400km. A range-extender version with a petrol engine is also in development to further enhance driving range. Performance estimates include a 0–100 km/h time of 7.5 seconds for the AWD variant and fast charging from 30 to 80 percent in just 30 minutes. The V23 also supports vehicle-to-load functionality, but lacks features like locking differentials or low-range gearing, though it does include off-road driving modes.
Pricing in China ranges between 99,800 and 139,800 yuan, which translates to approximately AU\$21,500 to AU\$30,000. Once imported and approved for the Australian market, the starting price is expected to be around AU\$40,000 or possibly less. The arrival of the iCaur 03 in Australia remains unconfirmed, though overseas versions offer up to 205kW dual motors and WLTP-rated ranges between 345km and 371km depending on the configuration.