Chery iCar V27 Debuts at Auto Guangzhou 2025! Range-Extender Electric SUV

Picture this: a boxy SUV that looks like it rolled out of an adventure movie, but runs on electric power for most of your daily drive. That's the Chery iCar V27. It just made its big entrance at Auto Guangzhou 2025 today. And it's not just another car, it's the top model for Chery's iCar lineup, aimed at folks who want rugged style without the constant worry of running out of juice.

A Design That Turns Heads

The V27 doesn't mess around with sleek curves. It goes straight for that tough, square look. Think straight lines, big wheel arches, and a front end with square lights and a silver skid plate. From the side, it's all muscle, almost 5 meters long in the version with a spare tire on the back. That's 5055 mm to be exact, with a width of 1976 mm and height up to 1894 mm if you add the roof rack. The wheelbase stretches 2910 mm, giving plenty of room inside for passengers or gear.

People online are already calling it the "Chinese G-Class." And honestly, it's easy to see why. The rear has a side-hinged door, just like old-school off-roaders, with space for extra storage. It's built for trails, but it won't feel out of place in city traffic. Chery filed it with China's tech ministry earlier this year, so everything's official.

Power Under the Hood

This isn't your average hybrid. The V27 uses a range-extender setup. A 1.5-liter turbo engine acts like a backup generator, feeding a battery that powers electric motors. No direct gas drive here, it's all electric until you need more.

Go for the rear-wheel-drive model if you want basics. But the four-wheel-drive version? That's where it gets exciting. Dual motors crank out 335 kW, or about 449 horsepower. That's enough to pull you up hills or merge onto highways without breaking a sweat.

On pure battery power, you get 200 km of range. That's perfect for errands around town or a full commute. Fill up the tank too, and the total goes over 1000 km. No more hunting for chargers on long trips. Real-world tests will tell the full story, but on paper, it beats many rivals for everyday use.

Inside: Tech Meets Comfort

Chery kept the interior details under wraps until now. But from the previews, it's clear this SUV puts screens and smarts front and center. A large floating touchscreen dominates the dash for navigation, music, and controls. Wireless charging pads keep your phone ready without cables everywhere.

The cabin feels premium for the price. Soft materials, good seats, and space for five. That long wheelbase means rear passengers stretch out, and cargo room swallows weekend bags or family groceries. Add in NFC for easy keyless entry, and it's set up for modern life.

When Can You Get One?

Expect the V27 to go on sale in China early next year, first quarter of 2026. Prices should start around 200,000 yuan and top out at 300,000 yuan. That's about 28,000 to 42,000 USD. Some reports pin it lower, at 200,000 to 250,000 yuan, which would make it a steal compared to imported off-roaders.

Outside China, it goes by iCaur V27 to dodge trademark issues. It debuted globally in Dubai back in August. Chery plans to push it to places like the UK and maybe Australia soon after. Right-hand drive versions are in the works.

The Future-Proof Upgrades

Chery isn't done tweaking. Higher trims will pack LiDAR sensors for smarter driving aids. That means better hands-free highway runs or parking in tight spots. It's all powered by advanced chips from Horizon Robotics. These features roll out later, but they'll keep the V27 fresh as tech evolves.

Why It Stands Out

In a sea of crossovers, the V27 brings back that boxy charm without skimping on green tech. It's for the driver who wants to escape the city on weekends but hates range anxiety. Or the family needing space and safety without a massive fuel bill.

Compared to a Toyota Land Cruiser or Land Rover Defender, it's way more affordable. And with 449 hp from electric motors, it drives smoother than pure gas guzzlers. Sure, off-road pros might want more ground clearance tweaks. But for most, this hits the sweet spot.

China's EV market is exploding, and Chery's iCar brand has sold over 75,000 units so far. The V27 could push that higher, especially as more people eye hybrids for long hauls.

One Thing to Watch

Battery size isn't out yet, but expect over 30 kWh for that 200 km electric run. Charging speeds and exact off-road angles will matter too. Chery says it's a unibody build for better handling, not a full ladder frame. That keeps it light and efficient.

The Road Ahead

The iCar V27 proves Chery gets it: adventure shouldn't mean compromise. By blending old-school looks with new-energy smarts, it's ready to carve a spot in garages worldwide. If you're shopping for large SUVs, keep an eye on this one. Early 2026 can't come soon enough.

For more updates, visit DrivePK.com