India-Bound Chery iCar V23 & Jetour T2 Score 5-Star ASEAN NCAP Ratings: 2026 Full Review & Price

Safety Redefined: The 2026 Chery iCar V23 and Jetour T2 Ace ASEAN NCAP

In a massive boost for potential Indian car buyers, the India-bound Chery iCar V23 and Jetour T2 have both officially secured a perfect 5-star safety rating from the ASEAN NCAP. This development comes as Chery prepares its massive entry into the Indian market for 2026, positioning safety as its primary USP. With an expected starting price of ₹18 Lakhs for the iCar V23 and ₹28 Lakhs for the Jetour T2, these SUVs are set to disrupt the rugged off-road segment currently dominated by Mahindra and Tata.

The ASEAN NCAP results highlight the structural integrity of both vehicles, with high scores in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and Child Occupant Protection (COP). For the iCar V23, this is a significant milestone as it represents the collaboration between Chery and Xiaomi’s subsidiary, Zhimi, proving that tech-forward electric vehicles (EVs) don’t have to compromise on ‘tank-like’ build quality.

Design and Aesthetics: Retro-Modern Meets Off-Road Ruggedness

The design language of these two vehicles is what first catches the eye. The 2026 Chery iCar V23 looks like a futuristic reincarnation of the classic off-roader, blending Defender-like boxiness with minimalist LED lighting. On the other hand, the Jetour T2 (known globally as the Traveler) offers a more sophisticated, muscular stance aimed at the lifestyle luxury segment.

Chery iCar V23: The Compact EV Powerhouse

The iCar V23 is designed for the urban adventurer. Its short overhangs, 210mm ground clearance, and 43-degree approach angle make it a legitimate off-roader. Inside, the cabin is dominated by a massive floating touchscreen and high-quality sustainable materials. Users on global forums have praised the iCar for its ‘spaciousness despite its compact footprint,’ although some have noted that the minimalist interior lacks physical buttons for HVAC controls, a common gripe among traditionalists.

Jetour T2: A Luxury Off-Roader for the Masses

The Jetour T2 is larger and more premium. It is built to rival the likes of the Tata Safari and the MG Gloster. Under the hood, the 2026 Indian variant is expected to feature a 2.0L Turbocharged petrol engine and a sophisticated PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) option. The interior is draped in leather and features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chipset for a lag-free infotainment experience. It’s the ‘Goldilocks’ of SUVs—rugged enough for the mountains, yet plush enough for the mall.

Performance and Off-Road Capability

Performance is where these two vehicles diverge. The iCar V23 is purely electric, offering a choice between RWD and AWD configurations. The AWD variant features dual motors that propel the SUV from 0-100 km/h in under 7 seconds. Meanwhile, the Jetour T2 utilizes a mechanical XWD system from BorgWarner, providing six driving modes including Sport, Snow, Mud, and Rock.

Technology and Connected Features

Being a product of the Xiaomi ecosystem, the iCar V23 is effectively a ‘smartphone on wheels.’ It features Level 2.5 ADAS, automated parking, and seamless integration with smart home devices. The Jetour T2 isn’t far behind, offering a 15.6-inch console, a Sony premium sound system, and a 360-degree camera with a ‘transparent chassis’ feature for technical off-roading.

Market Comparison: How They Stand Against Rivals

In the Indian context of 2026, the competition is fierce. The iCar V23 will go head-to-head with the Mahindra Thar ROXX and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny EV. The Jetour T2, however, eyes a more premium segment, challenging the dominance of the Jeep Meridian and the Toyota Fortuner.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

1. What is the ASEAN NCAP rating for Chery iCar V23? It has scored a perfect 5-star rating.
2. When is the Chery iCar V23 launching in India? Expected launch is mid-2026.
3. What is the range of the iCar V23? The top variant offers up to 500 km on a single charge.
4. Does Jetour T2 have a diesel engine? No, it is expected with a 2.0L Turbo Petrol and a PHEV option.
5. Is Chery partner with any Indian company? Rumors suggest a potential partnership with the Tata Group for manufacturing.
6. What are the main rivals of Jetour T2? Mahindra Scorpio-N, Tata Safari, and Jeep Meridian.
7. Does the iCar V23 have 4WD? Yes, the higher trims feature a dual-motor AWD system.
8. What is the ground clearance of Jetour T2? It boasts a generous 220mm ground clearance.
9. Is the iCar V23 a 5-seater? Yes, it is a dedicated 5-seater with ample cabin space.
10. What is the warranty period expected? Chery is expected to offer a 7-year/1,50,000 km warranty to build trust.

Verdict: Should You Wait for the Chery Duo?

The 2026 Chery iCar V23 and Jetour T2 are formidable contenders. If you value safety and cutting-edge tech, these 5-star ASEAN NCAP performers are worth the wait. However, the lack of an established service network in India initially might be a concern for some.

Pros:
– Exceptional 5-Star Safety Ratings.
– Unique, head-turning retro designs.
– High-tech interiors with Xiaomi-backed software.
– Competitive pricing for the performance offered.

Cons:
– Uncertainty regarding the Indian service network launch.
– No diesel engine option for high-mileage users.
– Stiff competition from established home-grown brands like Tata and Mahindra.