New Chinese Adventure SUV launching in South Africa very soon

The Chinese car brand iCaur is set to launch in South Africa in May 2026.

iCaur is the latest badge to emerge from the Chery Holding Group, following in the footsteps of Lepas, Jaecoo, and Omoda.

In contrast to the urban crossovers and SUVs offered by its sister brands, iCaur will offer a selection of retro-themed 4×4 SUVs with electric powertrains.

At launch, it will offer two vehicles in South Africa – the V23, and the 03T.

We’ve already covered the V23 in a previous article, but the company has now disclosed the specifications for the 03T.

“iCaur, the Chery Group’s adventure-focused SUV brand, is preparing for the debut of the new 03T, an exciting electric SUV set to bring retro-inspired design and modern EV innovation to South African roads.”

What to expect

The 03T draws inspiration from classic 4x4s with its design with fairly tall and boxy SUV shape.

At the front, it has a pair of distinctive vertical LED daytime running strips on either side of the body-coloured closed-off grille panel we’ve come to expect from electric vehicles.

It also has LED headlights, lower fog lamps, a large front bumper, and 19-inch alloy rims with 245/55 tyres and ventilated disc brakes.

The suspension uses MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup at the back.

At launch, the 03T will offer a choice of two powertrain configurations – a two-wheel-drive (2WD) option with a single front-mounted electric motor, or an all-wheel-drive (AWD) model with motors for both axles.

The 2WD units are fitted with a 66kWh battery, while the AWD version comes with a larger 70kWh pack.

iCaur has not formally disclosed the vehicle’s power, torque, or range stats, which it said will only be revealed closer to the launch date in May.

However, when we previewed the 03T in China last year, we saw that the 2WD version produces 125kW and 220Nm, while the AWD generates 205kW and 385Nm.

The 66kWh battery then provides a CLTC range of 472km, which is increased to 500km with the 70kWh cell.

The iCaur also supports V2L (vehicle-to-load) charging, allowing owners to power external devices with the battery.

In terms of features, the automaker has thus far revealed that the 03T will come with electronically adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, a sound system with 8 to 12 speakers, and a 15.6-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

It also has a comprehensive driver assistance suite with a 540-degree camera, forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, lane departure prevention, adaptive cruise control, ABS, traction control, electronic stability control, and six airbags.

More information on the iCaur 03T, such as its pricing, will be announced closer to its launch window in May 2026.

iCaur 03T