The Exeed VX 400T, produced from September 2021 to November 2023, represents a significant offering in the mid-size SUV segment from the Chinese automaker Exeed, a sub-brand of Chery. Positioned as a premium vehicle, the VX aimed to compete with established international brands by offering a spacious seven-seat configuration, advanced technology, and a powerful turbocharged engine. The 400T designation specifically refers to the model equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 249 horsepower, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This variant sat at the top of the VX lineup, offering the highest performance and most advanced drivetrain configuration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Exeed |
| Model | VX |
| Generation | VX |
| Type (Engine) | 400T (249 Hp) AWD DCT |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| End of production | November, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 249 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 124.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRF4J20 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 121.93 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 4.23 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 3.52 UK qt |
| Coolant capacity | 10.4 l |
| Coolant capacity (US qt) | 10.99 US qt |
| Coolant capacity (UK qt) | 9.15 UK qt |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 13.21 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 11 UK gal |
| Length | 4970 mm |
| Length (in.) | 195.67 in. |
| Width | 1940 mm |
| Width (in.) | 76.38 in. |
| Height | 1788 mm |
| Height (in.) | 70.39 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2900 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 114.17 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R19; 245/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Exeed VX 400T is the SQRF4J20, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger to deliver increased power and efficiency. The engine’s design incorporates variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides, optimizing performance across the rev range. The 400T’s engine produces peak power of 249 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 4000 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), known for its quick and smooth gear changes. The DCT contributes to both performance and fuel efficiency. The all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Exeed VX 400T offers a refined driving experience, prioritizing comfort and stability over outright sportiness. The 249 hp engine provides ample power for everyday driving and highway overtaking. The DCT transmission delivers quick shifts, contributing to a responsive feel. The AWD system provides enhanced grip, particularly in inclement weather or on loose surfaces. While not a sports SUV, the 400T offers confident handling and a composed ride. Compared to lower-powered VX variants, the 400T provides a noticeable performance advantage, with quicker acceleration and a more relaxed feel at highway speeds. The DCT, while efficient, can sometimes exhibit slight hesitation at low speeds compared to a traditional torque-converter automatic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 400T, being the top-tier trim, came standard with a comprehensive list of features. These included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included upgraded interior trim materials, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. The interior design focused on creating a luxurious and spacious environment, with attention paid to material quality and fit and finish.
Chassis & Braking
The Exeed VX utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The chassis is reinforced to accommodate the increased power and weight of the 400T variant. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The vehicle is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and brake assist to enhance safety. The steering system employs an electric power steering (EPS) system, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Exeed VX 400T was generally well-received by automotive critics in China, who praised its spacious interior, luxurious features, and powerful engine. However, some reviewers noted that the brand lacked the established reputation of its international competitors. Fuel economy figures were comparable to other 2.0-liter turbocharged SUVs in the market. Compared to lower-powered VX trims, the 400T offered a significant performance upgrade but came at a higher price point. Reliability reports are still emerging, as the VX is a relatively new model.
Legacy
The Exeed VX 400T represents Exeed’s ambition to establish itself as a premium SUV brand. While its long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, the 400T’s robust powertrain and advanced features position it as a competitive offering in the mid-size SUV segment. On the used car market, the 400T is likely to hold its value due to its higher performance and premium features. The SQRF4J20 engine, while relatively new, has shown promise in terms of durability and efficiency, and its continued use in other Exeed models suggests a commitment to this powertrain architecture.
