From Toll Roads to Steep Slopes: What Driving the iCar V23 Feels Like
The Jakarta–Bogor journey provides an ideal backdrop to experience the iCar V23’s authentic character. A route blending tol roads, urban congestion, slopes and winding lanes shows how this retro‑styled electric SUV offers not only design but a mature driving experience.
From the moment you step inside the cabin, the SUV’s character is evident in the commanding seating position typical of modern SUVs. The high driving position provides broad forward visibility, boosting the driver’s confidence as they navigate Jakarta’s dense traffic and as they begin the ascent toward the Bogor area.
In testing the Jakarta–Bogor route, the electric motor character is immediately apparent as the accelerator is pressed. The 2WD variant with 100 kW and a 60 kWh battery delivers a spontaneous response well suited to daily use. The instant torque typical of EVs makes lane changes on the highway and exiting bends feel light, without requiring excessive pedal input.
Meanwhile the iWD version, or all‑wheel drive, with 155 kW and an 82 kWh battery, offers a more aggressive driving feel. The greater power is particularly helpful when climbing hills and navigating winding roads toward Puncak or the alternative Bogor route. Power is distributed to all wheels to improve traction on surfaces that vary.
The driving character becomes more engaging thanks to iCar’s range of drive modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, Slippery, Offroad, and Individual. On the Jakarta–Bogor tol route, Comfort is ideal for relaxed cruising with smoother throttle response and light steering feel. Eco is suited to heavy traffic to maintain optimal energy efficiency. When entering uphill and winding sections, Sport delivers a more aggressive, immediate accelerator response, making the car feel more vibrant when manoeuvring or overtaking. Slippery helps maintain traction on wet or less‑than‑ideal road conditions. For semi‑off‑road or light rocky roads, Offroad offers more adaptive power distribution and controllability. Individual allows the driver to tailor the vehicle’s character to their driving preferences.
On handling, the iCar V23 demonstrates a solid character for an electric SUV. The front MacPherson Strut and rear Multi‑Link suspension keep the car firm and stable during mid‑to‑high‑speed manoeuvres.