iCAR V23

Model Overview

The iCAR V23 is the second mass-production model rolled out by Chery's new energy sub-brand iCAR, positioned as a rugged, compact pure-electric SUV. The new model was officially launched on 16 December 2024, offered in three variants with introductory prices ranging from RM99,800 to RM139,800. In September 2025, the 2026 iCAR Super V23 made its official debut, expanding the price bracket to between RM122,800 and RM174,800.

In terms of dimensions, the V23 measures 4220×1915×1845mm in length, width, and height, with a wheelbase of 2735mm. As a compact pure-electric SUV, the V23 carves out a distinct niche in the segment with its retro boxy silhouette and rugged off-road character.

Design Language

The iCAR V23 adopts a retro-futuristic boxy design language that blends heritage styling with modern technology. Up front, circular LED headlamps blend with a sculpted clamshell bonnet, evoking classic off-roader cues; flared wheel arches flank both sides above an aggressive front bumper. The polygonal closed-off grille integrates seamlessly with the round headlamps, complemented by distinctive dual-tier horizontal DRLs for strong road presence.

The side profile features clean, angular lines, where a wheels-at-the-corners stance and chunky flared wheel arches deliver an imposing, rugged presence. Flush pop-out door handles, fixed side steps, and 'V23' badging on the solid C-pillar inject modern high-tech touches into its retro silhouette. At the rear, it gets a side-hinged tailgate, complete with an external 'backpack' storage box on the right that connects through to the cabin—boosting both futuristic appeal and practical utility. In July 2025, two new exterior paint options—purple and blue—were introduced at an optional price of RM2,000.

Inside, the V23 adopts a "Digital Intelligence + Mechanical Ruggedness" design philosophy. The layered dashboard is anchored by a prominent 15.4-inch 2.5K floating touchscreen. The 2026 model gains an 8.88-inch full digital instrument cluster alongside a steering column-mounted gear selector. A healthy array of tactile physical buttons and rotary dials is retained below the centre screen, striking a fine balance between modern tech and intuitive, eyes-on-the-road usability. The cabin comes in three colour themes—Black, White, and Green, accented with extensive soft-touch leather upholstery.

Powertrain & Performance

The iCAR V23 is available in single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The 2026 update brings substantial powertrain upgrades: the 2WD model features an efficient 185kW permanent magnet motor; while the AWD model (V23S) packs dual front and rear motors churning out a combined 335kW and 490N·m of torque. The 0-100km/h century sprint takes just 4.5 seconds.

Battery options include lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and ternary lithium chemistry. CLTC-rated range covers three tiers: 401km (2WD), 501km (AWD), and 550km (Long Range 2WD). For charging, it supports a peak DC fast charging rate of 160kW, taking just 25 minutes to juice up from 30% to 80%. A standard heat pump across all variants helps limit winter range loss to under 20% in low-temperature conditions.

Chassis & Handling

The chassis is one of the V23's biggest highlights in its segment. It rides on an internationally tuned suspension setup comprising front MacPherson struts and a rear five-link independent suspension. In an RM100,000-class EV segment dominated by torsion-beam rear setups, the V23's five-link independent rear suspension offers a class-above setup. Higher-end variants further feature an intelligent air suspension system with CDC continuous damping control, offering an adjustable ride height from 210mm to 270mm.

The vehicle achieves a balanced 50:50 axle weight distribution. The AWD version offers a minimum ground clearance of 210mm, an approach angle of 42-43°, a departure angle of 40-41°, and a maximum wading depth of 600mm. It delivers composed stability in moose tests. Chassis calibration is tuned toward comfort, effortlessly soaking up road bumps in Eco mode; while Sport mode weights up the steering and tightens body control.

Cabin & Features

The cockpit features a dual-screen setup comprising a 15.4-inch 2.5K ultra-HD central touchscreen and an 8.88-inch floating instrument cluster. Under the skin, the infotainment runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor paired with UFS 3.1 high-speed storage, offering a slick, smartphone-grade user experience. Connectivity is extensive, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay, HiCar, and Carlink. A total of 48 physical buttons are placed throughout the cabin for seamless tactile control.

On the comfort front, the front seats are upholstered in Nappa microfibre leather, with the driver's seat featuring a 10-point pneumatic massage function. The 2026 model adds seat ventilation to the front. Boot capacity stands at 234L, expanding to 1366L with the rear seats folded flat. The vehicle also offers 29 modular mounting points, roof rails pre-wired for drone pod attachments, and a 6kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) external power supply function.

Safety & Driver Assistance

On the advanced driver assistance front, the V23 comes equipped as standard with the Falcon 500 ADAS suite. Sensor hardware on high-spec variants includes 12 cameras, 5 millimetre-wave radars, and 1 LiDAR sensor. The system offers 23 intelligent driving assist functions, including full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Centering Control (LCC), Auto Parking Assist, Reverse Tracking, and Door Opening Warning (DOW). Top variants support Highway NOA (Navigate on Autopilot). A 540° surround-view monitor with transparent chassis comes standard across the range. While parked, an OTA-upgradable Sentry Mode uses the surround cameras to monitor the vehicle's perimeter in real time, recording video footage if any abnormalities are detected.

Passive safety is bolstered by a 70% high-strength steel safety cage and a rigid integrated battery structure. Acoustic laminated double-glazed glass is fitted all around. Safety protection covers four key pillars: structural rigidity, passive restraint, intelligent driver assistance, and dedicated child occupant safety, forming an all-round protective envelope. With its robust safety suite and Level 2+ semi-autonomous capabilities, the V23 sets a benchmark for safety and intelligent tech in the RM100,000-class pure-electric SUV segment.

Market Performance & Verdict

Since its launch, the iCAR V23 has created substantial buzz in the RM100,000-class pure-electric SUV space, credited to its iconic retro boxy aesthetics, class-transcending chassis hardware, and comprehensive smart tech. The 2026 iteration sharpens its competitive edge further with the inclusion of a digital instrument cluster, a major bump in electric motor output (2WD version raised from 100kW to 185kW), and the introduction of the performance-focused V23S. With a rapid 4.5-second century sprint and robust off-road clearance figures, the AWD variant carves out a strong performance-oriented identity among rivals.

Nevertheless, automotive reviews highlight that the boxy profile results in only average high-speed stability and noticeable wind noise at cruising speeds; furthermore, despite its rugged exterior, it remains fundamentally an urban-biased SUV not intended for heavy off-roading or hardcore overland expeditions. Even so, within its market segment, the iCAR V23 carves out a compelling niche among younger buyers seeking individuality and everyday practicality, anchored by core selling points such as its retro boxy styling, five-link independent rear suspension, 4.5-second century sprint, and the Falcon 500 ADAS suite.