China’s Chery continues to expand its reach into global markets with bold new models under its sub-brand iCar. The latest offering, the Chery iCar V27, is a striking range-extender SUV that draws clear design inspiration from two legendary off-roaders: the Land Rover Defender and the Toyota Land Cruiser. But this isn’t just another retro SUV knockoff—underneath its rugged styling lies a modern powertrain and promising global potential.
Slated to be sold internationally under the iCaur nameplate to avoid trademark issues, the iCar V27 is shaping up to be one of Chery’s most ambitious and attractive offerings yet.
Key Highlights of the Chery iCar V27
- Retro-inspired styling blends Land Cruiser and Defender aesthetics
- Powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and electric drivetrain
- Two variants: single-motor RWD and dual-motor AWD
- Up to 449 hp in the dual-motor configuration
- Electric-only range of 124 miles (200 km) on CLTC cycle
- Larger in length than the U.S.-spec Toyota Land Cruiser
- Will be sold under the iCaur name in export markets
Inspired Design with a Familiar Twist
From first glance, the Chery iCar V27 looks like a love letter to off-road heritage. It borrows heavily from the silhouettes and cues of the Land Rover Defender and Toyota Land Cruiser, but it doesn’t feel derivative—it feels refined.
The front fascia features a high-set design with square LED headlights and circular DRLs, framed by a blacked-out bumper with an integrated skid plate. A body-colored strip connects the headlights, giving the SUV a tough yet stylish look.
Moving to the sides, the SUV rides on squared-off wheel arches, black-trimmed windows, and side steps, all of which enhance its adventure-ready posture. Roof rails and bold D-pillars—featuring the “V27” branding—reinforce its outdoorsy image.
At the rear, the spare wheel mounted on the tailgate and quad square LED taillights solidify its off-road identity. A black rear bumper mirrors the front end’s utilitarian style, completing the vehicle’s cohesive rugged look.
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Powertrain and Performance: More Than Just Looks
The iCar V27 isn’t just about appearances. Under the hood is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, operating as a generator in this range-extender setup. That gasoline engine supports an electric drivetrain available in two formats:
- A rear-wheel drive (RWD) version with a single electric motor
- A more powerful all-wheel drive (AWD) setup with dual electric motors, producing a total of 449 horsepower
That level of performance is rare in the segment and places the V27 in competition with premium electrified SUVs, both in China and abroad.
Although battery capacity remains undisclosed, Chery estimates a 124-mile (200 km) electric-only driving range based on the Chinese CLTC cycle, positioning the SUV well for daily commuting with occasional off-road escapades.
Dimensions and Presence on the Road
In terms of size, the iCar V27 is no compact SUV. Its dimensions firmly position it within the large SUV segment:
| Specification | Chery iCar V27 |
|---|---|
| Length | 5,045 mm (198.6 inches) |
| Width | 1,976 mm (77.8 inches) |
| Height | 1,894 mm (74.5 inches) |
| Wheelbase | 2,900 mm (114.1 inches) |
| Drivetrain | RWD (single motor) / AWD (dual motors) |
| Maximum Power Output | 449 hp (dual-motor AWD version) |
| Electric Range | 124 miles (200 km, CLTC) |
Its size places it between the Defender 110 and Defender 130 in length and makes it 40 mm longer than the U.S.-spec Toyota Land Cruiser, also known as the Land Cruiser Prado in other markets.
Global Rollout Strategy and Trademark Considerations
Chery is clearly positioning the iCar V27 for international markets, but to sidestep trademark complications, it plans to sell the model under the iCaur brand name abroad. This strategy reflects Chery’s broader ambition to expand beyond China and appeal to consumers who want capable SUVs with a tech-forward approach and strong value propositions.
The V27’s hybrid nature also plays well into current global trends, offering an alternative to full electric SUVs while still providing emissions-conscious benefits and lower running costs.
A Serious Contender in the Electrified SUV Segment
The Chery iCar V27 combines distinctive, nostalgic design with modern hybrid-electric performance. Its range-extender architecture, potent dual-motor setup, and bold styling are backed by Chery’s increasing global presence.
As Chery continues to refine its premium sub-brands and target global markets with aggressive pricing and high-value offerings, the V27 could prove to be a disruptive force in the segment—especially in markets hungry for rugged yet refined SUVs.
For buyers looking for a blend of retro character, modern performance, and practical electric range, the iCar V27 may soon be on their radar—under a slightly different name.
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