KATHMANDU: The Jeep Wrangler stands as the ultimate dream machine in Nepal’s growing lifestyle off-road SUV market. However, costing nearly Rs 30 million, it remains far beyond the reach of most buyers.
For enthusiasts who crave the off-road spirit without spending millions, options like the Suzuki Jimny have long been the go-to choice. Now, a new and even more affordable contender — the iCaur V23 — is set to enter the Nepali market.
While both SUVs promise rugged style and adventure-ready capability, they come from different worlds. While Jimny, which runs on a petrol engine, boasts Japanese engineering, the V23 is fully electric and Chinese-built.
Here we compare these two lifestyle off-roaders.
Brand Heritage
The Jimny has already proved its mettle. In production since 1970, it has become one of the most recognizable and reliable compact off-roaders globally. In Nepal, Suzuki vehicles have been sold for over 35 years, and the brand enjoys a reputation for durability and trust.
By contrast, iCaur is a relatively new sub-brand under the Chinese automobile giant Chery. It focuses exclusively on electric vehicles and aims to blend modern design with adventurous character. Chery’s EVs have already found strong markets outside China. The iCaur V23 aims to tap into that appeal in Nepal.
Variants and Powertrain
The Jimny, distributed in Nepal by CG Motocorp, is manufactured in India and available in three variants: Zeta, Alpha, and Alpha Dual-Tone. It comes with both manual and automatic gearboxes, and has a four-wheel-drive system that makes it a true off-roader.
The compact SUV is powered by a 1.5-liter K15B four-cylinder petrol engine that generates 104.8 PS and 134.2 Nm of torque. Prices range from Rs 6.39 million to Rs 7.49 million, depending on the variant.
On the other hand, the iCaur V23, which will be distributed in Nepal by SPG Automobiles, is a pure electric SUV. Although the all-wheel drive variant has been launched in the global market, the car will initially be offered only in rear-wheel drive. It is powered by a 100 kW electric motor paired with a 60 kWh LFP battery.
The V23’s design combines retro and rugged styling with modern flair — boxy proportions, side steps, a side-opening tailgate and a lifestyle-inspired front fascia. SPG Automobiles has indicated that the car will be priced below Rs 4.7 million in the domestic market, making it one of the most affordable lifestyle EVs in Nepal.
Key Differences
The Jimny’s biggest strengths are its proven off-road capability, four-wheel-drive system and petrol powertrain, which is ideal for long adventures without worrying about charging. It is a capable SUV built for reliability over range.
The iCaur V23, meanwhile, stands out for its electric efficiency, modern design and eco-friendly performance. It may lack 4WD initially, but it is stylish, quiet, and cheaper to run — a great urban-lifestyle SUV with off-road looks.
