Comparison of iCar V23 vs Chery J6: Which Boxy SUV EV is Most Appealing?
Jakarta—Competition in Indonesia’s boxy-styled electric SUV segment is entering a new phase. Whilst this segment was previously synonymous with premium, high-priced electric vehicles, a new alternative has emerged that is making the market increasingly attractive: the iCar V23.
The arrival of the iCar V23 immediately captured attention not only for its unique retro-modern design but also for its price point, which fell far below market expectations.
The iCar V23 was officially announced with prices starting from Rp 389.9 million. This figure proved surprising, as many had previously predicted the vehicle would be marketed in the region of Rp 500 million, similar to the Chery J6, which had already entered the Indonesian market.
This situation prompted the public to begin comparing the two boxy electric SUVs, particularly as both operate under the Chery Group umbrella.
Zeng Shuo, President Director of Chery Group Indonesia, emphasised that despite their common parentage, the iCar V23 and Chery J6 target different consumer segments.
This statement makes considerable sense when examining the overall character of both vehicles, from design and dimensions to performance, features, and price positioning.
The iCar V23 presents a more retro and playful appearance. Its body silhouette is compact with simple yet decisive lines, combined with round LED headlights and a large over-fender that evokes the aesthetic of 1980s classic SUVs. This character makes the V23 feel more expressive and appealing to young consumers seeking to stand out.
In contrast, the Chery J6 adopts a far more futuristic and modern approach. Its body appears larger, more muscular, and more premium. Sharp headlight details and body line compositions make the J6 feel like an adventurous SUV of the future. Whilst the iCar V23 feels like a fun lifestyle vehicle, the Chery J6 presents itself as a more serious, premium electric SUV.
In terms of performance, both vehicles offer options for rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive systems.
However, their performance approaches diverge once more. The iCar V23 features two drivetrain options: Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) and Intelligent Wheel Drive (iWD). The X and Y variants utilise RWD, whilst the Z variant uses iWD.
The iCar V23 RWD comes with a 59.93 kWh LFP battery and iWD (AWD) with an 81.76 kWh NMC battery. The RWD variant offers a range of 360 km (NEDC), whilst the iWD variant achieves 430 km (NEDC).
Its performance character is lighter, more responsive, and fun to drive, consistent with the lifestyle SUV concept it embodies.
The Chery J6, conversely, delivers more substantial performance and a more mature driving character. With Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries offering RWD (65.69 kWh) and AWD/iWD (69.77 kWh) options, it provides NEDC ranges of up to 426 km and 418 km respectively.