Key highlights
- The all-electric V25 will lead iCaur’s Australian launch with rear- and all-wheel-drive options.
- A range-extender V25 and the larger V27 REEV will expand the lineup.
- The V27 will offer up to 145km of electric-only driving range and approximately 900km of combined range.
Chery’s SUV-focused iCaur brand has confirmed three vehicle configurations for Australia, with its local rollout set to begin in early 2027.
The lineup will include the battery-electric V25, a range-extender electric version of the V25 and the larger V27, which will also use a range-extender powertrain.
An iCaur representative confirmed the rollout details to Australian media at a recent event in China.
The V25 BEV will arrive first, offered with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The V27 REEV will follow, alongside the V25 REEV.
This gives Australian buyers a choice between a fully electric SUV and two range-extender models, which use electric motors to drive the wheels while a petrol engine generates electricity to keep the battery charged.
The confirmation provides a clearer picture of what Australians can expect from Chery’s new brand, which takes styling inspiration from traditional off-roaders such as the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender.
However, unlike those dedicated off-roaders, iCaur’s SUVs use monocoque construction, similar to most modern passenger SUVs.
Read more: Chery Stockman, iCaur V27 target better towing for AU launch
iCaur V25 EV to lead the Australian launch
The V25 will be iCaur’s first model in Australia, measuring 4717mm long, including its tailgate-mounted spare wheel, with a 2820mm wheelbase.
Its dimensions put it in a similar size category to the Toyota RAV4, although its upright proportions and boxy styling give it a more rugged appearance.
The battery-electric V25 will use an 80kWh battery pack, but its WLTP driving range is expected to fall short of 400km.
That is less than the claimed 466km range of the entry-level Tesla Model Y and the 430km offered by the Chery E5 electric SUV.
The relatively modest range despite the large battery is expected to come down to the V25’s boxy shape, which can affect aerodynamic efficiency.
The RWD and AWD configurations will give buyers a choice of drivetrain layouts, although their individual Australian specifications have not been confirmed.
Read more: iCaur V25 leading Chery’s new SUV brand into Australia
iCaur V25 REEV and V27 REEV to follow
The next additions will bring range-extender technology to the Australian iCaur lineup.
The V25 REEV is expected to share its powertrain with the larger V27, although its smaller dimensions could help it deliver better electric driving efficiency.
The V27 is the larger of the two SUVs, measuring just over five metres long with its rear-mounted spare wheel. Its 2910mm wheelbase is also longer than that of the current-generation Toyota LandCruiser Prado.
Power comes from a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 105kW. However, unlike a conventional petrol SUV, the engine acts as a generator to supply electricity to the battery rather than directly driving the wheels.
The V27 uses a 34kWh battery and is expected to produce up to 335kW in its AWD configuration. A rear-wheel-drive version is also planned for Australia.
iCaur claims the V27 can cover approximately 145km on electric power alone under the WLTC testing cycle. Its estimated combined driving range is around 900km.
This setup could appeal to buyers who want the everyday driving experience of an electric vehicle but need the flexibility of a petrol-powered generator for longer journeys.
What about the smaller iCaur V23?
The V23, a smaller electric SUV that could take on the Suzuki Jimny in terms of its size and styling, has not been confirmed for Australia.
It is not expected to arrive locally until an updated version is introduced, potentially in 2028 or 2029.
For now, Chery’s Australian plans are centred on the V25 and V27, with three powertrain configurations expected to form the initial iCaur lineup.
Australian pricing, final specifications and exact showroom arrival dates are yet to be announced.
The brand will add another name to Chery’s growing Australian portfolio, but its success will depend on how its pricing, driving range and real-world capabilities compare with established electric and hybrid SUVs.
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