South Africa’s new-energy vehicle landscape is about to get more interesting. The iCaur brand, a lifestyle-focused EV sub-brand under the Chery Group, has officially confirmed its arrival in South Africa in 2026, with the iCaur V27 flagship SUV locked in for the local market.
Designed to blend electric driving with long-distance practicality, the V27 signals iCaur’s ambition to compete in the large SUV space, while offering technology-forward solutions tailored to modern drivers.
iCaur’s Entry Into the South African Market
When iCaur launches locally, its rollout will follow a clear and structured lineup:
- iCaur V23: a compact, all-electric SUV
- iCaur 03T: a slightly larger, rugged lifestyle model
- iCaur V27: the brand’s largest and most advanced SUV
The V27 will sit at the top of the range, acting as iCaur’s technology and performance flagship. South African motorists interested in emerging brands and EV trends can stay updated through trusted automotive platforms such as imotonews.co.za, which regularly covers new launches, reviews, and industry developments.
iCaur V27 Size and Road Presence
Physically, the iCaur V27 is a big vehicle by any standard.
With an overall length of just over 5 meters, a 2,900 mm wheelbase, and a height of 1,894 mm, it is slightly larger than well-known family SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. This size suggests a strong focus on:
- Interior space for families and adventure travel
- High ground presence for rougher road conditions
- Long-distance comfort for touring
For South African buyers who value space and versatility, this puts the V27 firmly in large-SUV territory.
Powertrain: How the iCaur V27 Works
While final South African specifications are still to be confirmed, global details indicate that the iCaur V27 uses range-extender electric vehicle (REEV) technology.
In simple terms:
- The V27 drives like a fully electric vehicle
- A 34.3 kWh battery powers electric motors on both axles
- When the battery runs low, a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine generates electricity instead of driving the wheels
This setup delivers a combined output of 339 kW, with a claimed 0–100 km/h time of around 5 seconds, making it surprisingly quick for a large SUV.
Electric-only range is estimated at 156 km, while the total combined driving range is claimed to reach up to 1,000 km, addressing one of the biggest concerns for EV adoption in South Africa.
Interestingly, Prodrive, known globally for its motorsport engineering expertise, is reported to have contributed to chassis development and tuning.
Interior Comfort and Technology Highlights
Inside the cabin, the iCaur V27 focuses heavily on comfort, technology, and everyday usability. Key highlights include:
- A segmented panoramic sunroof that blocks up to 99% of UV rays
- Over 50 practical storage solutions throughout the cabin
- Advanced driver-assistance systems
- Active noise cancellation for quieter cruising
- A 23-speaker premium sound system
These features suggest the V27 is designed as a long-distance, family-friendly SUV rather than a bare-bones off-roader.
Practical Ownership Tip for New-Energy SUVs
For drivers considering a range-extender or electric SUV like the V27, a few practical habits can improve ownership:
- Charge regularly to maximize electric-only driving
- Keep software and system updates current
- Use the petrol generator as a backup, not the primary energy source
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for battery health and cooling
These steps help maintain efficiency, performance, and long-term reliability.
For more ownership advice, you can discover additional tips here in our EV and hybrid driving guides.
Buying Alternatives and Market Context
While waiting for iCaur’s 2026 launch, many South Africans continue to explore both new and used SUV options. To find second-hand cars suitable for local conditions, including popular models like the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, and used BMW X5 listings, check out auto24.co.za, a well-known marketplace for pre-owned vehicles across South Africa.
At the same time, drivers curious about fully electric alternatives can explore import options through EV24.africa, which expands access to electric vehicles for South Africans interested in sustainable mobility and future-focused driving solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions About iCaur in South Africa
What is iCaur?
iCaur, internationally known as iCar, is a new-energy vehicle brand under the Chery Group. It focuses on rugged, lifestyle-oriented vehicles with modern EV and hybrid technology.
When will iCaur launch in South Africa?
Industry reports indicate that iCaur will officially launch in South Africa in 2026, following its local debut at the 2025 Festival of Motoring.
Which iCaur models are coming to South Africa?
The expected lineup includes the iCaur V23, the iCaur 03T, and the flagship iCaur V27, which will arrive later as the range-topper.
Is the iCaur V27 fully electric?
The V27 is expected to use range-extender technology, combining electric drive with a petrol-powered generator for extended driving range.
Final Thoughts
The confirmation of the iCaur V27 for South Africa in 2026 signals a growing shift toward flexible new-energy vehicles that balance electric driving with long-distance practicality. With its large dimensions, strong performance figures, and advanced interior features, the V27 could appeal to families and adventure-focused drivers looking for something different from traditional SUVs.
As final specifications and pricing are revealed closer to launch, the iCaur V27 will be one to watch in South Africa’s evolving automotive market.
