2026 iCar V23 Review: The Tiny Electric SUV That Surprises Everyone

Overview

The iCar V23 2026 might just be the most surprising small EV of the year. Built in China and set to launch in Australia by early 2027, this compact electric SUV aims to blend cute off-roader looks, everyday practicality, and affordable pricing.

Starting around $40,000 AUD, it’s positioned as a rival to the Suzuki Jimny — but instead of a petrol engine, it’s powered by electric motors, with optional all-wheel drive and an extended-range (ERV) variant on the way.

It’s not a hardcore 4×4, but it’s packed with character and charm — and might just become the next cult car for city drivers who love adventure.

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Exterior Design

The iCar V23’s design is its biggest drawcard.
At 4.22 meters long, it’s roughly Jimny-sized but looks chunkier and more futuristic.

Design Highlights

• Circular LED headlights with DRL rings
• Boxy profile with wide haunches and bold C-pillars
• Hidden door handles and blacked-out mirror caps
• 19-inch alloy wheels that mimic steel wheels
• 210 mm ground clearance and approach/departure angles of 43° / 41°
• 600 mm wading depth, despite lacking locking differentials

The tailgate is side-hinged and hides a clever rear storage compartment — shaped like a spare wheel housing but actually used for luggage and tools.

The styling is unapologetically square, giving it a tough yet adorable vibe. It looks like a baby Land Rover Defender crossed with a city EV — and that’s exactly why people love it.

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Interior and Features

Step inside, and the iCar V23 feels far more premium than its price suggests. The cabin design is minimal but filled with thoughtful details and quirky touches.

Key Interior Features

• 15-inch central touchscreen (super sharp and responsive)
• Digital driver display
• Faux-leather upholstery and steering wheel
• Physical controls for climate and volume
• Drive mode selector knobs with aircraft-style toggles
• Wireless charger + multiple USB-A and USB-C ports
• Soft-touch dashboard with contrast stitching

The layout is simple and functional, resembling a modernized Suzuki Jimny inside. Build quality is solid, and the materials feel durable.

There’s also plenty of storage — a large center console, twin cupholders, and hidden compartments under the armrest.

The auxiliary switches on the roof panel are a neat touch — great for adding extra accessories later.

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Technology and Infotainment

The infotainment setup is genuinely impressive for this price point. The 15-inch display runs smoothly, with slick graphics and quick menus.
The 360° camera system is high resolution and makes tight city parking easy.

You also get:

• Over-the-air software updates
• Digital key access
• Level 2 autonomous driving (adaptive cruise + lane assist)
• Voice command support

Everything feels well-integrated — not like a low-cost EV trying too hard.

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Seating and Practicality

Despite its small footprint, the iCar V23 is surprisingly roomy.

Front Seats

• Comfy, lounge-style chairs with good side bolstering
• No under-thigh extension, but excellent posture support
• Faux-leather trim with contrast piping

Rear Seats

• Huge legroom and headroom for a 4.2m SUV
• No rear air vents or USB ports (a miss)
• Clever storage nets and hooks
• Technically a four-seater, though some variants include a middle seatbelt

The seats look and feel high-end for this segment.
Cabin insulation is impressive — it’s very quiet inside, with minimal road or motor noise.

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Performance and Powertrains

The iCar V23 comes in three configurations:

Variant	Drive	Power	Torque	Battery	Range (CLTC)
Standard	RWD	100 kW	180 Nm	47.3 or 59.9 kWh (LFP)	300–400 km
AWD	Dual-motor	155 kW	292 Nm	81.8 kWh (NMC)	501 km
S AWD	Dual-motor	330 kW	430+ Nm	81.8 kWh	0–100 km/h in 7.5s

In real-world driving, expect 200–350 km of range depending on battery and terrain. Efficiency isn’t its strong suit (around 30 kWh/100 km in testing), but performance is lively and responsive.

The AWD versions use the brand’s “Iguana 4WD system,” which splits torque intelligently between the axles but lacks mechanical diff locks — so think snow tracks, not rock crawling.

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Driving Impressions

During a short off-road and mudfield drive in China, the V23 felt firm but fun. The suspension is stiffly sprung, giving it a sporty edge, though it can get bouncy over rough surfaces.

On the upside:

• Steering is extremely light and easy to maneuver
• Instant torque gives a playful, zippy character
• The motors will even allow controlled slides on loose surfaces

Off-road, the Chao Yang tyres struggled for grip, and without mechanical locking diffs, it’s clearly more of a soft-roader. Think urban adventure SUV rather than full trail rig.

That said, the ride height, ground clearance, and software-based AWD give it decent light-trail ability — enough for beach tracks and dirt roads.

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Charging and Range

Charging performance depends on the variant:

• DC fast charging: up to 120 kW (10–80% in ~35 mins)
• AC charging: 7.4 kW onboard
• Vehicle-to-load (V2L) power outlet for camping gear or appliances

The large 81.8 kWh battery uses NMC chemistry, while the smaller versions get LFP packs for longevity.

Range anxiety isn’t a big issue for city buyers — it’s perfect for weekend getaways and daily commuting.

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Practicality and Storage

The boot space isn’t massive, but it’s cleverly used:

• Split floor with deep under-storage
• Side-hinged rear door with extra cubby box
• Multiple hooks and netted pockets
• Rear 12V socket for small accessories

Despite its small size, the cabin’s clever use of space makes it feel versatile.

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Verdict

The iCar V23 2026 isn’t perfect — range could be better, and the ride is firm — but it’s full of charm. It looks great, drives well, and feels like a small EV built by people who actually understand fun.

For around $40k, you get quirky design, real usability, and loads of personality — something that’s rare in today’s EV market.

It’s not a proper off-roader, but for everyday life with a dash of adventure, the V23 nails its brief. Expect it to become a hit once it lands in Australia.

Pros ✅

• Distinctive design and strong build quality
• Comfortable, well-equipped interior
• Playful driving character
• Excellent value for money

Cons ❌

• Firm ride
• Inefficient energy use
• No mechanical diff locks for off-roading

Final Word:
The 2026 iCar V23 proves that affordable EVs can have style and soul. It’s fun, practical, and full of personality — a small SUV that dares to be different.