The Exeed LX ET-i 1.5T (326 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid DHT, often referred to as the “Zhuifeng” after its 2022 facelift, represents a significant entry into the growing Chinese plug-in hybrid SUV market. Produced from January 2022 to April 2023, this variant of the Exeed LX aimed to combine fuel efficiency with respectable performance, leveraging a sophisticated powertrain architecture. It sits within the broader LX model range as a premium offering, positioned above the standard gasoline-powered versions and emphasizing advanced technology and extended electric range. The LX itself is a compact SUV designed to appeal to a modern, tech-savvy consumer base within China, and the ET-i variant was intended to further enhance its appeal in a market increasingly focused on new energy vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Exeed |
| Model | LX |
| Generation | LX (Zhuifeng, facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | ET-i 1.5T (326 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid DHT |
| Start of production | January, 2022 |
| End of production | April, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp, 196.9 Hp/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 19.27 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the front seats |
| All-electric range | 105 km (65.24 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 170 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 315 Nm (232.33 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 326 Hp |
| Power | 156 Hp |
| Power per litre | 104.1 Hp/l |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRE4T15C |
| 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 |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1656 kg (3650.86 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4533 mm (178.46 in.) |
| Width | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Height | 1699 mm (66.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic transmission DHT |
| 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Exeed LX ET-i 1.5T utilizes a plug-in hybrid powertrain centered around the SQRE4T15C 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 156 horsepower and benefits from multi-port fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger. Crucially, the system incorporates a 170 horsepower electric motor positioned between the engine and the dedicated 3-speed Direct Drive Hybrid (DHT) automatic transmission. This DHT transmission, developed in-house, is a key component, allowing for seamless transitions between electric, hybrid, and gasoline power. The 19.27 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located under the floor and front seats, provides an all-electric range of 105 km (65.24 miles). The system prioritizes electric drive when possible, switching to hybrid mode for increased power demands and utilizing the gasoline engine for sustained high-speed cruising or when the battery is depleted. The combined system output reaches 326 horsepower.
Driving Characteristics
The ET-i 1.5T offers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the standard gasoline LX models. In pure electric mode, acceleration is brisk and quiet, making it ideal for urban commuting. The DHT transmission, while only having three forward gears, is programmed to maximize efficiency and provide smooth power delivery. When operating in hybrid mode, the combined output of the engine and electric motor delivers a 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.5 seconds, making it competitive within its segment. Compared to higher-output gasoline versions of the LX, the ET-i prioritizes efficiency and refinement over outright performance. The 3-speed transmission is geared for efficiency rather than aggressive acceleration, and the added weight of the battery pack does slightly impact handling agility. However, the low center of gravity due to the battery placement contributes to improved stability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The ET-i 1.5T trim generally came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium variant. Standard features typically included leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system with integrated navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras often included upgraded sound systems, ventilated front seats, and premium paint colors. Interior design emphasized a modern aesthetic with a focus on digital interfaces and high-quality materials. The dashboard layout was clean and intuitive, with a prominent central touchscreen controlling most vehicle functions.
Chassis & Braking
The Exeed LX ET-i 1.5T utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality and reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. Given the vehicle’s weight (1656 kg / 3650.86 lbs), the braking system is adequately sized for typical driving conditions. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Exeed LX ET-i 1.5T was generally well-received in the Chinese market, particularly among consumers seeking a stylish and technologically advanced plug-in hybrid SUV. Critics praised its extended electric range, comfortable ride, and comprehensive suite of features. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class, the LX ET-i offered a competitive combination of performance, efficiency, and value. Fuel economy in hybrid mode was reported to be around 5.0-6.0 liters per 100 kilometers, depending on driving conditions. Reliability reports are still emerging, but early indications suggest that the powertrain is generally robust, although the long-term durability of the battery pack remains a key consideration.
Legacy
The Exeed LX ET-i 1.5T represents an important step in Exeed’s development as a brand focused on new energy vehicles. While production was relatively short-lived (2022-2023), the model helped establish Exeed as a contender in the rapidly growing Chinese plug-in hybrid market. On the used car market, these models are becoming increasingly sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and well-equipped plug-in hybrid SUV. The longevity of the battery pack will be a key factor influencing resale values. The DHT transmission technology, pioneered in this model, continues to be refined and implemented in other Exeed vehicles, demonstrating its importance to the brand’s future powertrain strategy.
