Thinking about buying the ICON i40 golf cart? This 4-seater electric cart has grown in popularity for its sleek looks, street-legal features, and value-packed price tag. But is it really as good as it seems? In this review, we cover the real-world pros, cons, performance, and what owners are saying about the ICON i40.
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What Is the ICON i40?
The ICON i40 is a 4-passenger electric golf cart designed for both on-road and off-road use. It’s part of ICON’s popular line of LSVs (Low-Speed Vehicles), which are known for being fully loaded at a lower price point than traditional brands like Club Car, EZGO, or Yamaha.
It’s equipped with a 48V electric system, full LED lighting, digital display, and safety features that allow it to be street-legal in many areas (depending on local laws).
Key Features of the ICON i40
- 48V system with 4kW AC motor
- Top speed of up to 25 mph (programmable)
- Hydraulic disc brakes on all four wheels
- Onboard smart charger
- Digital speedometer and battery gauge
- LED headlights, tail lights, turn signals, horn
- Rear seat flips into a cargo bed
- 14″ aluminum wheels and all-terrain tires (varies by dealer)
ICON i40: Pros and What Owners Love
According to user feedback, here’s what most owners appreciate about the i40:
- Fully loaded for the price: Comes with all features standard, no costly upgrades needed
- Street legal in many areas: Meets LSV safety requirements with mirrors, lights, belts
- Smooth ride and quick acceleration: AC motor gives great torque and speed control
- Modern design: Sporty look with comfortable seating and digital dash
- Quiet operation: Very little motor noise compared to gas carts
ICON i40: Common Complaints
Despite its popularity, the i40 isn’t perfect. Here are the most common complaints from owners:
- Battery issues: Some users report shorter-than-expected battery life with stock lead-acid batteries
- Range can vary: Heavy use, hilly terrain, or added weight reduces mileage
- Dealer support varies: ICON has fewer service centers than Club Car or EZGO
- Parts availability: Some users say parts are slower to ship if replacements are needed
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Battery Options and Performance
The i40 comes stock with 6 lead-acid 8V batteries (total 48V). Here’s a quick look at what to expect:
| Battery Type | Range | Charging Time | Life Span |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead-Acid (standard) | 20–25 miles | 6–8 hours | 3–5 years |
| Lithium (upgrade) | 40–60 miles | 2–4 hours | 8–12 years |
Upgrading to lithium can nearly double your range and reduce maintenance, but it adds $2,000–$3,000 to the cost. Not ready to spend that much? Recondition your existing lead-acid batteries and squeeze more life and power out of them before upgrading.
Is the ICON i40 Street Legal?
Yes—most ICON i40 carts are built to LSV standards. They include the required features for use on public roads (typically under 35 mph) in many cities and towns:
- Seat belts
- Turn signals
- Horn
- Headlights and taillights
- Mirrors and windshield
However, street legality depends on your local DMV or city ordinances, so be sure to check before driving on public roads.
Who Should Buy the ICON i40?
The i40 is perfect for:
- Neighborhood driving or gated communities
- Campus or resort transportation
- Golf course use (if permitted)
- Families wanting a safe and quiet ride
- Anyone who wants a fully featured cart at a lower cost
It’s not ideal if you need heavy towing capacity, extended off-road durability, or have limited access to ICON-certified dealers for support.
ICON i40 vs. Other Golf Carts
| Feature | ICON i40 | Club Car Onward | EZGO Valor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $9,000–$11,000 | $10,500–$14,000 | $9,500–$12,000 |
| Motor | AC 4kW | DC or AC | DC 48V |
| Speed | 25 mph | 19–23 mph | 19 mph |
| Standard Features | Fully loaded | Most are extra | Basic model |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2–4 years | 2 years |
Final Thoughts
The ICON i40 is a feature-rich, stylish, and affordable electric golf cart that gives excellent value for everyday use. While it may not have the same legacy support as older brands, it holds up well in real-world use, and most owners are thrilled with their purchase.
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