Launched in December 2024, the iCar V23 from Chery is a compact all-electric SUV that mixes retro off-road styling with trendy EV know-how. It’s obtainable in three trims, together with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) choices, with a most CLTC vary of 501 km. It permits for intensive customization, together with removable fenders and off-road bumpers. Priced beginning at 13,700 USD, the iCar V23 targets city and suburban drivers in search of a sensible and classy electrical automobile.
Exterior:
The iCar V23 includes a retro-inspired off-road design, a smoked entrance grille, spherical headlights, and a squared-off silhouette. Sensible parts like a roof baggage rack, hidden door handles, and an exterior rear storage container add performance to its rugged look.
Measuring 4,220 mm in size, 1,915 mm in width, and 1,845 mm in top, with a 2,735 mm wheelbase, the iCar V23 is a compact SUV to rival the BYD Atto 3 (see specs) and the Geely Galaxy E5 (see specs). Its method angle of 43°, departure angle of 41°, and minimal floor clearance of 210 mm (AWD) make it appropriate for uneven terrain. The rear includes a side-opening door with an built-in “backpack” for emergency instruments.
Inside:
The inside of the iCar V23 is trendy and practical, with a white and black colour scheme, straight traces, and round knobs. A 15.4-inch 2.5K central touchscreen, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, is the first interface for infotainment and helps CarPlay. The system is responsive however lacks superior options like wi-fi charging or smartphone integration.
The seating association is flexible, with foldable rear seats offering as much as 744 liters of flat cargo house. Entrance seats are electrically adjustable, providing good assist and luxury, although air flow is unavailable. The seven-speaker audio system delivers clear sound high quality. Extra storage choices embody under-seat compartments and a 90-liter underfloor trunk, enhancing practicality.
Driving Expertise:
The iCar V23 is designed for city commuting and light-weight off-road use. Through the take a look at drive, the automobile supplied a easy and quiet trip. With a 55 kW (74 hp) entrance motor and a rear motor with 100 kW (134 hp) and 180 Nm torque, the AWD model delivers a mixed output of 211 hp and 292 Nm torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. This model feels assured and dynamic, particularly on uneven surfaces.
The suspension is tuned for consolation, successfully absorbing street imperfections in city settings. The trip can really feel barely agency on rougher terrains, which is anticipated given its off-road-inspired design. The steering is mild and exact, making the automobile straightforward to deal with in tight areas, however it lacks the suggestions in sportier fashions.
The iCar V23’s mild off-road capabilities have been examined on gravel and grime roads, the place it carried out adequately. The excessive floor clearance and AWD system present sufficient confidence for mild trails however will not be designed for excessive off-road circumstances.
The iCar V23 has a collection of driver help methods powered by a Horizon Robotics J3 chip and Texas Devices TDA4 chip. Options like high-speed navigation, emergency lane holding, and visitors jam help labored reliably through the take a look at drive. The automated parking system, supported by an 8-megapixel front-view digicam, a 3-megapixel surround-view digicam, 5 millimeter-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic radars, simplifies parking in tight areas.
Verdict:
The iCar V23 is a sensible and classy electrical SUV for city commuting and light-weight off-road adventures. Its retro-inspired design, trendy inside, and 24 modular improve interfaces—together with removable fenders and off-road bumpers—enable for intensive customization, enhancing its versatility and enchantment. Whereas it provides driver help methods and aggressive pricing, it lacks superior know-how and is unsuitable for long-distance journey or demanding off-road circumstances. For consumers in search of an inexpensive electrical automobile with distinctive design and sensible options, the iCar V23 is a compelling possibility.
Keep tuned for subsequent week’s Sunday China Drive at Automotive Information China, the place you’ll be able to learn extra first-person evaluations of Chinese language vehicles.
