Australia is about to welcome yet another new brand, with Chery Group preparing to introduce iCaur in early 2027. Its first model will be the V25, followed by the larger V27. Yes, another boxy SUV that combines retro-inspired styling with modern electrified technology, without much in terms of real off-road capability. But does that matter if most owners rarely venture off road?
Like many of the increasingly popular boxy-style SUVs on sale today – Prado, Jimny, Denza B5, GWM Tank 300 – the V25 has a playful personality. Its upright proportions, chunky exterior and interior details and surprisingly spacious cabin give it some attitude, in contrast to most vehicles in the medium SUV segment – think, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, and Mazda CX-5.
We recently had an opportunity to drive an overseas-specification V25 during an international media event in China, on a short off-road circuit. Although Australian pricing and final specifications are yet to be confirmed, the V25 is set to arrive with both fully electric and range-extender (EREV) powertrains, along with rear- and all-wheel-drive options.
2027 iCaur V25: Specifications
Engine: 1.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder REEV
Electrical: 33.68kWh battery, 2x e-motors
Output: 335kW / 505Nm
Gearbox: Dedicated hybrid auto
Drive type: All-wheel driveKerb weight: 2200kg (approx.)
Power-to-weight: 6.56:1 (kg:kW)
Official consumption: N/A
0-100km/h (claimed): 5.8 seconds
Starting price: TBA
*Figures as tested by Driving Enthusiast on the day. Manufacturers’ claims may be different
2027 iCaur V25: How much does it cost?
Australian pricing is yet to be announced, but the latest information suggests the fully electric V25 will arrive first, potentially towards the end of the first quarter of 2027, followed later by the range-extender version (REEV/EREV). Prices are expected to sit between the $50,000-$60,000 region.
2027 iCaur V25: Interior & packaging
One of the V25’s biggest strengths is its interior design. There’s a surprising amount of character throughout the cabin, with robust shapes, contrasting materials and a level of presentation that feels more luxurious than its playful exterior might suggest. It’s kind of like a mini Mercedes G-Wagon or Land Rover Defender in terms of presentation and character. Tall windows and all of that.
It’s refreshing to see something different from the relatively bland interiors found in many conventional medium SUVs. The V25 manages to look modern and technologically advanced without feeling sterile. A central 15.4-inch touch-screen handles many of the vehicle’s functions, but thankfully there are still some physical controls for frequently used features. That’s a welcome decision, particularly when driving on rough roads where trying to operate a touch-screen can become distracting.
In terms of dimensions, the V25 measures 4636mm long, 1920mm wide and 1855mm tall, with a 2820mm wheelbase. That puts it in similar territory to popular medium SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4, although the iCaur is considerably taller and has a more upright body, and the wheelbase is about 130mm longer (that gives you some idea of the cabin size).
The proportions give it a commanding appearance and help create a spacious-feeling cabin, even if enhanced by perception due to the tall ceiling. Meanwhile, the squared-off design should also appeal to buyers who prefer the traditional look of a 4WD. It means the boot, measuring 378L/998L, is more usable than some of the coupe-finished SUVs as well.
Another interesting aspect of the iCaur brand is its emphasis on personalisation. In China, customers are offered a variety of accessories and customisation options, allowing them to give their vehicles a more individual appearance. Hopefully, that approach carries over to Australia, as it could become an important selling point for the V25.
Overseas models feature a 22L storage container mounted on the tailgate, but, according to the iCaur Australia website, local models will come with a full-size spare wheel mounted on the tailgate. The brand’s local website also indicates that Australian models will feature Goodyear tyres, with 19- or 21-inch wheels depending on the variant.
2027 iCaur V25: Powertrain & handling
The V25 will be offered with fully electric and range-extender powertrains, with both rear- and all-wheel-drive configurations expected for Australia. Our test vehicle was the AWD range-extender version, which combines electric propulsion with a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that generates electricity to help maintain battery charge.
In this configuration, the system develops a combined 335kW/505Nm, giving the V25 considerably more performance than its rugged, off-road-inspired appearance might suggest. Acceleration is claimed in around 5.8 seconds in overseas form. And it feels every bit as quick as that from behind the wheel. You get immediate punch from the electric motors, and you can hardly hear or feel the petrol engine kicking in to assist.
The overseas-specification REEV also features a 33.68kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, providing approximately 150km of electric driving range, depending on the test cycle. That could make it particularly appealing to buyers who want to complete most daily journeys using electricity without having to rely entirely on charging for longer trips. Overseas specs suggest a combined petrol and electric range exceeding 1200km, although that figure remains subject to the relevant test conditions.
As for the battery-electric model, it is expected to use an 80kWh LFP battery, with a preliminary WLTP driving range of around 368km. That’s a relatively modest figure for such a large battery, with the V25’s upright shape likely presenting an obvious aerodynamic disadvantage. However, as an urban run-about, it should be fine.
The thing is, we don’t think it’s trying to deliver the same conventional experience as a typical family SUV. Instead, there’s a slightly playful character to the way it drives, which suits its design. On a small muddy off-road circuit, it seemed reasonably capable but very enjoyable to drive. Steering feel is communicative enough and with that instant response, you can adjust the attitude of the grip and drive distribution with the throttle; it’s a bit like driving a giant remote-control off-road car. You point, it goes.
Obviously the electric all-wheel drive system is able to provide useful drive to the important wheels, on demand, although the suspension did become quite bouncy and unsettled over some of the rougher sections during our drive. We noticed some bucking, suggesting the damping could benefit from further refinement.
However, this was an overseas-spec vehicle, and it is totally possible that the Australian version will receive different suspension tuning by the time it arrives. It’s also important not to confuse the V25’s rugged appearance with the mechanical capability of a traditional off-roader. We have 197mm of ground clearance, which is not terrible for an off-road SUV, but low-profile road tyres and big rims are.
It’s also worth noting the V25 uses a conventional monocoque platform rather than a separate ladder-frame chassis. It’s essentially a crossover with a rugged body, rather than a dedicated vehicle for serious rock crawling or difficult off-road tracks.
Even so, the V25 should be more than capable of handling gravel roads, muddy tracks and occasional recreational adventures. An expected 1800kg braked towing capacity across the electric and REEV versions would also add to its practicality, subject to final Australian specifications.
2027 iCaur V25: First impressions
The 2027 iCaur V25 makes an entertaining first impression, combining cool styling with a surprisingly luxurious and characterful interior. Add 335kW of AWD grunt, and this could be a popular contender in the demanding mid-size SUV segment. It’s different. It’s interesting. And it is undeniably fashionable, especially if different trim packs and accessories are offered here like in its home market in China.
Ultimately, the V25’s appeal will depend on pricing. As it will be a new brand in Australia there will be some level of skepticism surrounding long-term reliability and service support. But if it is priced very attractively, customers might get past that initial anxiety and be more willing to take the plunge.
2027 iCaur V25: Video
