The Chery iCAR V23 reminds us of the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen, Defender, Toyota FJ Cruiser, and the new BAW 212. According to iCAR, “the vehicle will rely on the four core values of good-looking, fun, easy to use, and easy to drive.”
On 16th Dec 2024, Chery’s sub-brand iCAR officially launched the iCAR V23 in Beijing. It’s been targeted at people young at heart with the slogan “Born to play.”
Three versions were offered with prices ranging from RMB 99,800 (USD 13,670) to RMB 139,800 (USD 19,150) in China.
Performance and specs
The top-spec version of the iCAR V23 comes with a maximum output of 208 HP and 292 Nm of torque. The models have a CLTC pure electric range from 301 km to 501 km with a fast charging time of less than 30 min (30–80%).
With an approach angle of 43°, a departure angle of 41°, a minimum ground clearance of 210 mm, and a maximum wading depth of 600 mm, the vehicle is very well capable of coping with harsh off-road conditions.
The iCAR V23 is 4,220 mm long, 1,915 mm wide, 1,845 mm high, and has a 2,735 mm wheelbase. The vehicle weighs 1,825 kg in the top spec version.
Design
The iCAR V23 catches attention for its retro, classic, boxy looks that give it a strong, rugged appeal. The design has a touch of the Defender, Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen, Toyota FJ Cruiser, and the new BAW 212.
Features like a height-to-width ratio of nearly 1:1, C-pillar blind windows, and 21-inch large wheels combined with a bold square design give the vehicle a sense of volume that’s both tough and durable.
In terms of safety, the iCAR V23 has a high, rigid body with high-strength steel accounting for more than 70% of its structure and a 10 mm-thick battery protection armor.
With a spacious interior, the layout is functional. It has a 15.4-inch 2.5K touchscreen and physical knobs/buttons below the screen for better control during off-road driving and L2+ level intelligent driving assistance functions.
The seats and interior panels use soft leather material in three color schemes: black, white, and green. The rear seat can be moved backwards, offering bigger leg space, or folded to get a 744L ultra-large flat space.
Going along with its slogan “Born to play,” the iCAR V23 offers multiple options to modify the car to one’s taste. The front grille, wheel arches, body panels, roof rack, etc. can all be modified to create a car that’s unique to each person.
Chery iCAR V23 : In short
The Chery iCAR V23 is a retro-styled, eye-catching, capable electric SUV with Defender/G-Wagon inspired looks. Apart from its solid off-road looks and performance, the vehicle offers multiple modification options where the buyer can alter it to his own individual taste and style.
According to Yin Tongyue, Chairman of Chery Group, “A new era requires new classics. iCAR will use innovative product ideas, technologies, and innovative teams to create new classic cars like the V23. We will make the V23 a toy for young people around the world.”
Starting at RMB 99,800 (USD 13,670) in China, it’s definitely a deal. No wonder; it got over 31,000 orders within 8 hours of its presale offer.