The Exeed LX 1.6T AWD DCT, often referred to as the “Zhuifeng” following its 2022 facelift, represents a significant entry into the compact SUV segment from the Chinese automaker Exeed, a sub-brand of Chery. Production of this specific configuration – the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive – ran from December 2022 to April 2023. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the LX lineup, it aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and technological features for the growing Chinese market, and increasingly, export markets. The LX is built on Chery’s T1X platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Exeed |
| Model | LX |
| Generation | LX (Zhuifeng, facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6T (150 Hp) AWD DCT |
| Start of production | December, 2022 |
| End of production | April, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 192 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 275 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm (202.83 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRF4J16 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1658 kg (3655.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1967 kg (4336.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 309 kg (681.23 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 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 track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm (7.28 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission DCT |
| 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 | 225/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Exeed LX 1.6T AWD is the SQRF4J16 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a single turbocharger and direct fuel injection. This engine is part of Chery’s “Kungfu” engine family, known for its focus on thermal efficiency and responsiveness. The direct injection system, coupled with the turbocharger and intercooler, allows for a relatively high power output of 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 275 Nm (202.83 lb-ft) of torque available from 2000 to 4000 rpm. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) was chosen for its quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The DCT operates with a wet clutch design, enhancing durability and heat dissipation. The all-wheel-drive system utilizes a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed, providing enhanced traction in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6T AWD DCT variant of the Exeed LX delivers a balanced driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.7 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 10.2 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The DCT provides crisp shifts, and the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration. While not a sports-oriented SUV, the 1.6T engine offers sufficient power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Compared to lower-powered versions of the LX, the 1.6T provides a more engaging driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system enhances stability and grip, particularly on slippery surfaces. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency, with taller gears for highway cruising and shorter gears for quicker response in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Exeed LX 1.6T AWD DCT typically came well-equipped, reflecting Exeed’s positioning as a premium sub-brand. Standard features generally included leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras often included upgraded sound systems, ventilated front seats, and a 360-degree camera system. Interior trim levels varied, with higher trims offering more premium materials and finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The Exeed LX utilizes an independent suspension setup at all four corners, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. The chassis is reinforced to provide rigidity and improve handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). The steering system is an electric power steering (EPS) system, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Exeed LX 1.6T AWD DCT was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and advanced technology. Critics noted the engine’s responsiveness and the smooth operation of the DCT. Fuel economy figures of around 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) were considered competitive for its class. Compared to other trims in the LX lineup, the 1.6T AWD offered a significant performance upgrade over the base engine options, but at a higher price point. It competed with other compact SUVs from both domestic and international brands, such as the Haval H6, Geely Boyue, and Honda CR-V.
Legacy
While the Exeed LX 1.6T AWD DCT had a relatively short production run, the powertrain combination has proven to be generally reliable. The SQRF4J16 engine, in particular, has been used in other Chery and Exeed models and has a decent track record for durability. On the used car market, these models are becoming increasingly popular as buyers seek affordable and well-equipped SUVs. The DCT transmission, while offering performance benefits, requires regular maintenance (fluid changes) to ensure long-term reliability. Overall, the Exeed LX 1.6T AWD DCT represents a notable step forward for the Exeed brand, showcasing its commitment to producing modern and technologically advanced vehicles.
