iCAUR V23 South Africa brings retro-inspired styling, electric performance, AWD capability, modern technology, and up to 430 km of NEDC-rated range.
iCAUR V23 South Africa: Rugged Electric SUV Brings Retro Styling
The iCAUR V23 South Africa has arrived as a distinctive new electric SUV aimed at buyers who want something different from the increasingly familiar EV designs. Developed under Chery’s new-energy iCAUR brand, the V23 combines a boxy, rugged appearance with fully electric power and modern technology. The model is now available in South Africa in 2WD and AWD versions.
Its retro-inspired design, high ground clearance and compact dimensions give the iCAUR V23 South Africa a character that sits somewhere between a lifestyle SUV and an urban electric vehicle.
Retro Design With a Rugged Character
The iCAUR V23 South Africa measures 4,220 mm long and has a 2,735 mm wheelbase, creating a relatively compact footprint while maintaining a spacious five-seat cabin. Its upright body, round headlamp surrounds, pronounced wheel arches and chunky lower cladding give it a clear adventure-inspired appearance.
The design is not purely cosmetic. The V23 incorporates practical features such as more than 20 factory-integrated mounting points, allowing owners to add accessories without relying heavily on aftermarket structural modifications. The AWD model also offers 210 mm of ground clearance, reinforcing its ability to handle more varied road conditions.
Two Electric Powertrain Choices
South African buyers can choose between the V23 2WD and AWD. The 2WD uses a 59.93 kWh battery and a single rear-mounted motor producing 100 kW and 180 Nm. It has an NEDC-rated range of 360 km and a claimed 0–100 km/h time of 11 seconds.
The AWD version adds dual electric motors, producing 155 kW and 292 Nm. Its larger 81.8 kWh battery provides an NEDC-rated range of 430 km, while 0–100 km/h takes a claimed 7.5 seconds.
For buyers comparing vehicles across the African market, AfriCarGroup Auto24 also provides another place to explore available cars.
Fast Charging and Everyday Practicality
The iCAUR V23 South Africa supports DC fast charging, with the 2WD taking around 36 minutes to charge from 20% to 80%. The AWD requires roughly 42 minutes for the same charging range. Five driving modes are available, while the AWD adds a dedicated Off-Road mode.
Despite its compact exterior, the V23 offers 372 litres of boot space, increasing to 994 litres when the rear seats are folded. Both versions also feature a 15.4-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, leather upholstery, electrically adjustable front seats and a seven-speaker sound system.
Safety and South African Pricing
Safety equipment includes six airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, emergency brake assistance and ISOFIX anchors. The AWD adds a 540-degree camera system and a wider suite of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot detection and automatic emergency braking.
The iCAUR V23 South Africa starts at R519,900 for the 2WD model, while the AWD costs R669,900. The range is backed by an eight-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty for the first owner, alongside a five-year/100,000 km service plan.
Conclusion
The iCAUR V23 South Africa brings a distinctive combination of retro-inspired SUV styling, electric driving and practical technology. With two powertrain choices, up to 430 km of NEDC-rated range and an AWD option with off-road-focused equipment, it expands the variety available to South African EV buyers.
Would you choose the retro-styled V23 over a more conventional electric SUV? Tell us in the comments which version you would pick: 2WD or AWD.
