Zakirin
Bold Design and Street Presence
The iCAUR V23 immediately grabs attention with its bold styling. It measures 4,220 mm long, 1,915 mm wide, and 1,845 mm tall, sitting on a 2,735 mm wheelbase. Its boxy silhouette, circular headlamps, and upright stance recall classic off-road SUVs. Chunky wheel arches and 200 mm ground clearance hint at light off-road capability. The car can ford shallow water up to 600 mm deep, and it has approach and departure angles of 42° and 40°. Despite its rugged looks, the wide body might make narrow lanes or tight urban parking tricky.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The V23 comes in two main variants: 2WD rear-wheel-drive and iWD all-wheel-drive. The 2WD version uses a single motor that produces 136 PS and 180 Nm, paired with a 59.9 kWh LFP battery. Drivers can expect a range of 360–401 km, with 0–100 km/h in about 11 seconds. The iWD variant has dual motors producing a combined 211 PS and 292 Nm, supported by an 81.8 kWh NMC battery. This version reaches 100 km/h in roughly 7.5 seconds and offers a range of 430–501 km. DC fast charging goes up to 104 kW for the iWD and 85 kW for the 2WD. AC charging is around 6.6 kW.
For Malaysian commutes and weekend adventures, the iWD strikes a good balance of speed and range. The 2WD’s performance feels modest but is suitable for daily drives. Battery chemistry differences may affect durability and heat management.
Interior Comfort and Practicality
Inside, the V23 balances tech and utility. A 15.4-inch infotainment screen dominates the dashboard. Rugged touches like door nets and chunky handles add practicality. The boot expands from 234 litres to 1,366 litres with the rear seats folded, and under-floor storage adds 80 litres. A 3.3 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) output lets owners power devices during outdoor trips. A 540° underbody camera improves off-road awareness. High headroom and intuitive controls enhance usability. Material quality and tactile finishes remain to be tested locally.
Value in the Malaysian Market
Prices in Malaysia start from RM145,000 for the 2WD and around RM155,000 for the iWD. The V23 competes well in the lifestyle EV segment, offering strong tech and range for the price. Buyers should consider the brand’s new presence in Malaysia and the growing service network. Real-world range may vary in hilly terrain or hot climates, and the wide body could limit city maneuverability.
Verdict: Unique but With Considerations
The iCAUR V23 blends rugged style, practical tech, and versatility. It suits young drivers seeking a lifestyle EV that stands out. Its 2WD variant performs modestly, but the iWD delivers solid speed and range. Interior practicality and outdoor-friendly features make it ideal for weekend adventures. Overall, the V23 earns a tentative 8.0/10 for lifestyle-oriented EV buyers who value character and content-worthy appeal.
For more iCAUR content, we made a review on iCAUR 03 Launch, here.
Yusri Ng
