The iCAUR V23 brings a fresh and characterful approach to electric SUV ownership in South Africa. Serving as the entry point to the local iCAUR range, it combines retro-inspired styling, compact dimensions, useful everyday practicality, and generous standard equipment in a value-focused electric SUV package.
Exterior design
The iCAUR V23 has been designed to stand apart from conventional compact SUVs, using a boxy silhouette and retro-inspired detailing to create a distinctive, youthful appearance. Its upright body, short overhangs, flat bonnet, and strong shoulder line give it a confident stance, while the squared-off cabin and generous glass areas contribute to its functional, adventure-ready look.
LED head- and taillights are standard across the range, but model-specific wheel designs help separate the two derivatives. The 2WD is fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels and 255/55 tyres, while the AWD gains larger 21-inch alloy wheels with 265/45 tyres for a bolder stance. The V23 will be offered in several paint colours, including Khaki White, Carbon Crystal Black, Cyan Grey, Starlight Silver, Texture Green, and Warm Orange.
Performance and efficiency
The V23 range gives buyers a choice between two fully electric powertrains, each tuned to suit a different kind of customer. The 2WD derivative uses a single electric motor driving the rear wheels. It produces 100 kW and 180 N.m of torque, reaches 100 km/h in 11 seconds, and has a top speed of 140 km/h. Its 59.93 kWh battery delivers an NEDC-estimated range of 360 km, while energy consumption is rated at 20 kWh/100 km.
AWD models gain a second electric motor for greater traction and stronger performance. Combined outputs increase to 155 kW and 292 N.m, reducing the 0-100 km/h time to 7.5 seconds. Top speed remains 140 km/h, while the larger 81.9 kWh battery increases the NEDC-estimated driving range to 430 km. Energy consumption is listed at 22 kWh/100 km. When connected to a DC fast charger, the 2WD can charge from 20-80% in 36 minutes, while the AWD completes the same charging window in 42 minutes.
Both models offer Eco, Comfort, Sport, Individual, and Slippery drive modes. The AWD adds an Off-Road mode, giving the flagship derivative an additional setting for less predictable surfaces. The V23 uses a MacPherson strut front suspension and a rear multilink arrangement, supporting ride comfort and stability. Ventilated front disc brakes and rear disc brakes are fitted across the range.
Practicality
Although compact in overall size, the V23 makes effective use of its footprint. Measuring 4,220 mm in length and riding on a 2,735 mm wheelbase, it offers a spacious cabin for five occupants while remaining easy to place in everyday driving environments.
The luggage compartment provides 372 litres of capacity with the rear seats in use. When more loading space is required, the rear bench can be folded flat to increase available cargo volume to 994 litres. This balance of compact exterior dimensions and usable interior space makes the V23 well-suited to city driving, daily commuting, and weekend use.
Interior and comfort features
Both derivatives of the V23 come equipped with leather upholstery, climate control, and electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation. Both variants also offer 3.3 kW vehicle-to-load functionality, allowing external devices to be powered when needed. The AWD derivative adds heated front seats, giving the higher-spec model an additional comfort feature for colder climates.
Inside, the V23 follows a clean and practical cabin layout, with a strong focus on ease of use. The vehicle also offers two ways to unlock and access the cabin, either via an NFC card or a conventional remote key. The driving position, wide glasshouse, and upright body shape contribute to good outward visibility, while the modern interior execution gives the cabin a more sophisticated feel than its playful exterior might suggest.
Technology
A 15.4-inch touchscreen forms the centrepiece of the V23’s cabin, bringing together infotainment, connectivity, and selected vehicle functions in one easy-to-access interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity and voice command functionality. This allows drivers to access key functions while keeping their attention on the road.
Both derivatives are fitted with a seven-speaker iCAUR sound system. Three front-row USB ports are provided, two of which are Type-C ports, making it easy to keep devices charged and connected.
Safety
The V23 is equipped with myriad safety features, with both derivatives receiving six airbags, including dual front, front side, and side curtain airbags. ISOFIX child-seat mounting points are also included. Core safety systems include Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), traction control, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), and Brake Assist.
The 2WD derivative is fitted with cruise control and a reverse camera, while the AWD model adds a 540-degree surround-view camera system to improve visibility when manoeuvring in tighter spaces. The V23 AWD also gains a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems package, including:
Service and warranty
The V23 is supported by an eight-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/160,000 km power battery warranty. A five-year/100,000 km service plan is included, along with roadside assistance for eight years/200,000 km.
