The Exeed LX 1.5T CVT, often referred to as the Zhuifeng after its 2022 facelift, is a compact SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer Exeed, a sub-brand of Chery. Introduced in March 2022 and remaining in production until April 2023, this variant occupied a key position in the LX lineup, offering a balance between affordability and modern features. It was primarily aimed at the Chinese domestic market, where demand for stylish and technologically advanced SUVs is high. The LX, and this 1.5T CVT trim specifically, represented Exeed’s attempt to establish itself as a premium brand offering a more refined experience than its parent company.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Exeed |
| Model | LX |
| Generation | LX (Zhuifeng, facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (147 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | March, 2022 |
| End of production | April, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 191 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 95.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 147 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 98.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | E4T15C |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1536 kg (3386.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1872 kg (4127.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 336 kg (740.75 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Length | 4533 mm (178.46 in.) |
| Width | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Height | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm (7.28 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/60 R18; 225/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Exeed LX 1.5T CVT is powered by the E4T15C, a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection and features an intercooled turbocharger to boost power output. The engine produces 147 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 210 Nm (155 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 4000 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate performance for daily driving. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) was selected for its smooth operation and contribution to improved fuel economy. While not known for sporty acceleration, the CVT is programmed to mimic traditional gear shifts under hard acceleration to provide a more engaging driving experience. The engine is front-mounted and transversely positioned, a common layout for front-wheel-drive vehicles.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5T CVT variant of the Exeed LX delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 10 seconds, which is adequate for urban and highway driving but doesn’t offer particularly brisk performance. The CVT transmission contributes to smooth acceleration, but can sometimes feel less responsive than a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often operates at lower RPMs during cruising. Compared to higher-trim LX models equipped with more powerful engines, the 1.5T CVT feels noticeably less energetic, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, the CVT helps to keep the engine within its optimal torque band, providing sufficient power for most everyday driving situations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Exeed LX 1.5T CVT typically came equipped with a respectable array of standard features. These generally included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), power windows and locks, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels within the 1.5T range, and across the LX lineup, offered upgrades such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, and premium audio systems. Interior color schemes were typically dark, with options for black or gray upholstery. The dashboard layout was modern and minimalist, with a focus on the central touchscreen display.
Chassis & Braking
The Exeed LX 1.5T CVT utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight class. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering is electrically assisted, offering light and precise control. The LX’s suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp cornering ability. Stabilizer bars are present on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Exeed LX 1.5T CVT was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a stylish and well-equipped compact SUV. Critics praised its modern design, comfortable interior, and smooth-shifting CVT transmission. However, some reviewers noted that the engine’s performance was adequate but not particularly exciting. Compared to other 1.5-liter turbocharged SUVs in the Chinese market, the LX offered a competitive level of features and refinement for its price point. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with combined fuel consumption figures around 8 liters per 100 kilometers (29.4 US mpg). Reliability reports are limited due to the relatively short production run and the vehicle’s primary market being China.
Legacy
The Exeed LX 1.5T CVT, while not a long-lived model, played a significant role in establishing Exeed as a new player in the Chinese automotive market. It demonstrated the brand’s commitment to offering modern, well-equipped vehicles at competitive prices. The E4T15C engine and CVT transmission combination proved to be reasonably reliable, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. On the used car market, the LX 1.5T CVT represents an affordable entry point into the Exeed brand, offering a comfortable and practical SUV experience. Its long-term value will depend on maintenance history and overall condition, but it remains a viable option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a stylish and feature-rich compact SUV.
