The iCaur 03T is one of 2 box-shaped EVs offered by the newcomer brand. Priced aggressively and surprisingly quick, the 03T could be one of 2026’s coolest cars.
We like: Futuristic styling; energetic performance; novelty factor.
We don’t like: Not the most efficient EV; too much reliance on the touchscreen for all functionality; feels a bit dated in comparison to the newer V23.
FAST FACTS
- Model: iCaur 03T iWD
- Price: R699 900
- Engine: 2 electric motors
- Transmission: Automatic
- Power/Torque: 205 kW/385 Nm (combined)
- 0-100 kph: 6.5 seconds (claimed)/6.3 seconds (tested)
- Fuel consumption: 19.9 kWh/100 km (claimed)
- Range: 436 km (claimed)
- Luggage capacity: 450-1 238 litres
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Where does the iCaur 03T fit in?
iCaur is a new-energy, quirky brand from the Chery Group. Pronounced ‘iCar’ but spelt like that to avoid a trademark from a certain tech company which prefixes all of its products with ‘i’, the brand launched in South Africa in 2026 with 2 products: the 03T and the V23. The brand will be launching the larger V27 and expanding the 03T range before the end of 2026.
The 03T has had a challenging gestation. Initially badged as the Jaecoo J6 for the export market and with a few homologation units already in South Africa, the decision was taken to revert to its China iCaur brand. We had a preview drive of the J6 in China back in 2024 and, as a reminder, both Omoda and Jaecoo are brands for the export market. iCaur formally launched in South Africa earlier this year.
Read more: Here’s how many units iCaur has sold in SA so far
The 03T range comprises 2 derivatives: a single-motor 2WD and a twin-motor iWD (tested here). The price difference between the 2 is R60 000, with the range starting from R639 900 (price correct as of September 2026). For the iWD’s premium, you’re getting a fractionally larger battery, significantly more pace and some additional features.
Given its unique design and all-electric powertrain, rivals for the 03T are a challenge to button down. At this price point, the Chinese brands are obvious rivals and things like the BYD Atto 3 and Geely E5 come to mind. But, both these competitors don’t have the performance to match up to the iCaur.
Compare the iCaur 03T to the BYD Atto 3 and Geely E5 using our Comparison Tool
While this article is not a comparison piece, it’s difficult to ignore the sibling rivalry; the newer iCaur V23 offers a similar experience for a bit less money. In terms of legacy offerings, the closest rival is the single-motor Mini Aceman, but that offers less performance at a significant premium.
Compare the 03T to the V23 iWD and Mini Aceman here using our Comparison Tool
How the iCaur 03T iWD fares in terms of…
Design & Packaging
With a design that’s best described as a great blend of retro nostalgia and futurism, the iCaur 03T will turn heads irrespective of colour. Even in this stealthy battleship grey spec (which contrasted nicely with the seasonal canola blooms), there was no escaping the attention of other road users. What’s not to like, as the iCaur brand surfs the trendy wave of box-shaped faux off-roaders…
The 03T does manage to carve its own path, however. We especially like the narrow daytime running lights at the front and similarly styled tail lamps. Unlock the car, or charge it, and you’re treated to a light show. We don’t think that novelty will wear off too soon…
Step inside and, while the large infotainment screen will immediately catch your attention, we think the plush-looking and -feeling materials are the bigger drawcard. If there’s one aspect the newcomer brands from the East have managed to nail, it’s offering a visually sophisticated and tactile cabin environment.
It’s not all good news, however. While we appreciated the responsiveness of the large central screen, we feel it lags behind its Chery Group siblings in terms of graphics and resolution. Our test car schedule saw overlaps between the iCaur 03T and V23 (which is on extended test), and the latter car’s infotainment screen is higher quality.
Then there are the ergonomics… Effectively, the 03T’s infotainment screen controls nearly everything. This tech-forward approach is great in theory, but in practice it results in frustration. For example, you adjust the side mirrors or open the glovebox via the screen. Granted, you don’t use those constantly, but even the door handles feature an electronically-controlled button (see below).
There is an emergency mechanical release discretely located at the bottom for those who fear being trapped in their vehicle. We’d guess you’d eventually get used to the setup, but it’s not without its annoying quirks. We did love the graphics and customisation of the 9 driving modes, though.
Why the charging flap is motorised is anyone’s guess. There’s really no need for it, as we can’t recall a petrol filler cap doing this.
Speaking of charging, the vehicle accepts a maximum of 6.6 kW AC power, while DC public charging is capped at 85 kW. The battery can be loaded from 10-80% in around 30 minutes using one of the high-speed chargers.
For those of you who enjoy the great outdoors, the 03T offers vehicle-to-load (V2L) outputs of 3.3 kW, which is enough to run some lights, an induction stove and a coffee machine for a few hours.
The level of standard equipment is deeply impressive at this price point and it’s worth paying the additional money for the higher-spec trim. Not only do you get a much quicker vehicle, but the massage functionality and higher-quality audio system from Infinity justify that expense. The vehicle also features heated and ventilated front seats.
Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay is included, as are numerous USB ports and a powerful wireless phone charger. While it’s easy to be dazzled by all the tech and gadgetry, iCaur has not skimped on the safety technology, either, with a comprehensive ADAS suite offered. As a reminder, this encompasses things like autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and so on.
Despite its cute and compact proportions, there’s more space inside than you’d imagine. With a wheelbase stretching beyond 2 700 mm, rear legroom is generous, even for taller folk. A pair of USB ports to charge your devices is a great touch. The boot space isn’t the longest nor the deepest, but if you need extra carrying capacity, you can fold the rear seats down or use the cute storage bin on the rear door. There’s no spare wheel or luggage cover, unfortunately.
Performance & Efficiency
There are two powertrains to choose from: a single motor driving the front wheels, or a dual-motor setup providing all-wheel drive. The latter is the model tested here.
The outputs are high for what we’d deem an urban runabout; 205 kW and 385 Nm give it credible straight-line performance. With our testing kit activated and the sportiest of modes engaged, the 03T bolted to 100 kph in 6.3 seconds, besting its claim by 0.2 seconds. It has a top speed of 150 kph.
As is the case with all electric cars, even if they’re not set up or marketed as performance vehicles, they still provide eager and hesitation-free straight-line acceleration. The 03T, in its most conservative battery-saving mode, still effortlessly passes slower traffic.
By now you might think there’s a catch, and there is: efficiency. The 69.77 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery offers a claimed range of 436 km based on the NEDC test cycle. In reality, you’re likely to get around 375 km depending on your driving style and whether you’re frequently traversing highways or slower roads.
The culprit is the aerodynamics; those blocky looks won’t slip through the air as easily as more sleeker vehicles. Given the advancement in public charging stations in the metropolitan areas, range anxiety isn’t likely to rear its head, however.
Longer trips will require some planning, though, but we reckon if you’re considering the purchase of an EV, you’ve likely done your research to see if it suits your lifestyle.
If you like the look of the 03T but you’re concerned about range anxiety, it may be worth waiting for the range-extender powertrain 03T, which will be in showrooms before the end of 2026.
Ride, Handling & Comfort
When it comes to dynamics, the iCaur 03T generally excels. The car’s height and proportions mean you sit quite high and therefore have excellent visibility. Thanks to its modern suspension setup, the 03T balances comfort, pliancy and dynamics. Like the majority of electric cars, the battery is located between the axles and as low down as possible, which aids the centre of gravity. The 03T may look top heavy, yet it’s anything but. Plus, it manages to hide its near 2-ton kerb weight acceptably well.
In an urban scenario, the vehicle is easy to place on the road and the drive is whisper quiet. iCaur has done good work in keeping road and wind noise low. The steering can be adjusted in terms of resistance and weighting, which helps with engagement and, while it’s not marketed as sporty, can be driven more enthusiastically than usual.
If you take gravel-roading more seriously than most, you’ll appreciate the 225 mm of ground clearance and additional off-road modes offered by the higher-spec 03T. The vehicle rides on 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in plump 245/55 tyres. There is a tyre-repair kit if things go awry.
Price & After-sales support
03T models are supported by an 8-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty, an 8-year/160 000 km battery warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km service plan. Customers will also receive roadside assistance for 8 years/200 000 km
| iCaur 03T 2WD | R639 900 |
| iCaur 03T iWD | R699 900 |
Verdict
As far as head-turning and interesting vehicles go, the iCaur 03T is right up there. Very few vehicles attract this much attention and the novelty factor is through the roof. Onlookers were genuinely curious, which is no mean feat in a market saturated with new vehicles.
The 03T’s value, futuristic styling, rear passenger space, standard levels of equipment, practicality and blistering performance are enough to bring attention and sales to this newcomer brand. However, when you consider its retro-styled V23 sibling has superior ergonomics and a newer infotainment system at a cheaper price, the clever money goes there. Family arguments are never pleasant, are they?
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