The iCaur 03T iWD enters the SUV market as a lifestyle-minded daily driver for active South Africans. Competitive pricing and a good amount of range make it a compelling package in the EV segment.
What are we driving and why is it significant?
The 03T is the second SUV from Chery new-energy sub-brand iCaur. It appeals to buyers wanting to cut petrol costs without sacrificing versatility, performance, or visual presence. The boxy SUV forms part of the Chinese brand’s adventure utility strategy, slotting between the entry-level V23 and V27 flagship ranges. Unlike the V-series, iCaur sells this model exclusively as a fully electric vehicle, until the REEV arrives in the coming months. It comes in a single rear electric motor or dual-motor iWD configuration. The new EV SUV also targets consumers who appreciate a futuristic cyberpunk aesthetic.
Retro SUV silhouette with cyberpunk design cues
The exterior design stands out. The vehicle measures 4 433 mm long, 1 916 mm wide, and 1 741 mm high, with a 2 715 mm wheelbase and 225 mm ground clearance. These dimensions give it strong road presence. The mid-range EV SUV features angular lines creating a boxy profile. Distinctive LED headlamps and taillamps, gloss-black accents, and robust anti-scuff panels on the lower front fascia add cyberpunk styling.
The side profile includes flared angular wheel arches, a black contrast roof, flush retractable door handles, roof rails, and prominent gloss-black alloy wheels. Vertical geometric taillamp clusters, a faux spare wheel storage container, and a side-hinged rear door define the rear. A lower aft bumper insert and anti-scuff plating complete the rear design. Abstract insignia on the wheel caps serve as the only exterior branding.
Interior build quality, space and technology
The iCaur 03T achieves high build quality throughout the cabin. Soft-touch plastics and a padded dashboard buffer creaks and rattles. Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) suppression is exceptional. Wind noise and vibrations remain minimal despite the boxy exterior and heavy EV components. Harder plastics appear only on out-of-reach surfaces.
A leather steering wheel provides a premium touchpoint. Rubber floor mat liners cover the standard carpet set. These mats protect the cabin from dirt and water after outdoor trips. Rubber lining inside the dual-level centre console secures loose items.
Cabin storage remains functional. A cooled compartment under the armrest holds a 500 ml bottle. Drinks holders feature in the door cards and rear armrest. Boot capacity measures a claimed 450 litres, expanding to 1 238 litres with the 60:40-split rear seats folded flat. The 832 mm load height requires some lifting when loading heavy items.
The interior shows a minimalist layout centered around two digital displays. A 15.6-inch touchscreen acts as the main control terminal. It handles dual-zone climate control, driver assistance systems, 540-degree camera views, and lighting. Drivers also use this screen to open the glove compartment and adjust the side mirrors. This configuration removes physical switches from the dashboard. A narrow, 9.2-inch instrument cluster behind the steering wheel displays driver information.
The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The iWD package upgrades the standard eight-speaker setup to a 12-speaker Infinity audio system. All models include a panoramic sunroof, electrically adjustable front seats, and front seat heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Black faux leather upholstery covers the seats and dashboard, accented by soft-touch plastic and aluminium trim. Ambient lighting elevates the cabin atmosphere.
Digital systems can become a bit overwhelming
As a Chinese EV, the 03T prioritises digital user experience. The Android-based operating system runs smoothly. Integrating most functions into the touchscreen creates an initial learning curve, however.
Customisable steering wheel controls offer quick shortcuts. The left scroll wheel adjusts climate fan speed and temperature. The right wheel controls audio volume. With adaptive cruise control active, the left wheel manages vehicle speed and distance.
The AI voice command system struggles with activation across different tones and volumes. Physical buttons on the rear bench allow passengers to interact with the AI system, showing the brand’s emphasis on voice usability. Over-the-air updates should resolve these software glitches.
Exterior cameras and sensors power intuitive advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Lane-keep and -following assists operate smoothly, while collision alerts give prompt warnings in urban and highway driving.
What does the iCaur 03T cost?
The iCaur 03T range starts at R639 900 for the base single-motor rear-wheel-drive model. The range-topping iWD package costs R699 900. Pricing includes an eight-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty, an eight-year/160 000 km battery warranty, and a five-year/100 000 km service plan. Roadside assistance covers eight years or 200 000 km.
What are the iCaur 03T’s rivals?
The Geely E5 serves as a direct rival, featuring a smaller 60 kWh battery and a single-motor setup producing 160 kW, with a 410 km range. The BYD Atto 3 costs R739 900 and uses a 60 kWh battery paired with a single front motor, delivering 420 km of range and a 7.3-second 0-100 km/h acceleration time.
What is the iCaur 03T like to drive?
The iCaur 03T iWD adds a front motor, raising total outputs to 205 kW and 385 N.m of torque. The dual-motor setup brings kerb weight to 1 874 kg. A 0.33 drag coefficient and conservative initial traction control calibration yield a claimed 6.5-second 0-100 km/h sprint. Power delivery remains responsive once on the move.
A MacPherson strut front and multilink rear suspension setup delivers a composed ride over tarmac and gravel. The electrically assisted steering feels direct. A low centre of gravity minimises body roll despite the vehicle’s height. Good cabin insulation keeps road noise, wind noise, and mechanical vibrations low.
Drive modes include Eco, Normal, Sport, and Custom. The iWD package adds off-road terrain modes that adjust throttle response, regenerative braking, traction control, and steering weight.
Verdict
The iCaur 03T iWD stands out in the growing EV market. Distinctive styling, low running costs, and strong standard equipment make it a compelling choice for everyday commuting and weekend trips. Buyers seeking extended touring range can look out for the upcoming REEV (range extended electric vehicle) variant arriving later this year.
iCaur 03T iWD Specifications
- Price: R 699 900
- Powertrain: dual permanent magnet synchronos motors
- Transmission: single-speed direct drive
- Driven wheels: all
- Power: 205 kW
- Torque: 385 N.m
- Range: 436 km (claimed)
- Energy consumption: 19.9 kWh100 km (claimed)
