Chery’s iCaur electric vehicle brand will enter the Australian market in early 2027 with two SUV models, one fully electric and one with a range-extender powertrain. The first to debut is the V25, a compact SUV sized similarly to the Toyota RAV4, offering both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations. Its 80kWh battery provides less than 400 kilometers of range under WLTP testing, falling behind the 466 kilometers claimed by a Tesla Model Y and even the 430 kilometers delivered by Chery’s existing E5 SUV, which is priced under $40,000 in Australia.
The V25’s aerodynamic design is expected to reduce efficiency despite its large battery capacity. The larger V27, exceeding 5 meters in length, will feature a 105-kilowatt 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol range-extender paired with a 34-kilowatt-hour battery. All-wheel-drive versions of the V27 will deliver up to 335 kilowatts of power, with a combined range of approximately 900 kilometers, though its electric-only range sits around 145 kilometers. A range-extender variant of the V25 is also confirmed, potentially offering better efficiency than the larger model.
Unlike conventional SUVs, both the V25 and V27 utilize monocoque construction instead of ladder frames, placing them closer to passenger cars in structural design. The smaller V23, a potential electric competitor to the Suzuki Jimny, has not been confirmed for the Australian market and may arrive only as an updated model in 2028 or 2029. Chery’s Australian expansion aligns with a broader trend of Chinese automakers targeting mid-sized SUV segments, though efficiency and range will remain critical factors in a crowded market.
Buyers prioritizing long-distance travel may find the range-extender models more appealing than those focused solely on electric range.
Chery’s entry into Australia follows its recent success in Europe, where the brand has gained traction through competitive pricing and expanding model offerings. The company’s decision to launch with two SUVs reflects a strategic focus on balancing affordability with performance, though challenges remain in matching the range of established competitors.
