In the driver’s seat and beyond: Exeed LX in North America

In the driver’s seat

Chinese automotive firms have advanced to deliver interiors of notable quality. Plastics are cleanly formed and do not carry a harsh chemical odor, and panels align with impressive precision.

The driver’s seat is well shaped with substantial lateral support. Height adjustment is somewhat limited, but the seating position often places the driver high enough for a clear view of the road ahead. At intersections, the roof line can intrude on sight lines, requiring a momentary head tilt to assess oncoming traffic.

Back is comfortable

The rear area offers generous legroom and a welcoming level of refinement. Cutouts in the back of the front seats improve space for passengers, and the central tunnel remains low enough not to impede leg movement. According to factory specifications, trunk capacity is listed at 412 liters, though real-world use may reflect usage of underfloor storage; the sides are trimmed with soft fabric that preserves a premium feel longer than hard plastics would.

For the second row, a single ventilation deflector is provided. With two occupants in the rear, airflow must be shared, though climate comfort remains adequate for daily commuting.

Rides solid

Exeed LX is built on the T1X modular platform, a base shared with other Chery models such as the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8. The SUV handles well, and the overall ride quality holds up under routine conditions. Some minor bumps travel through the cabin, and insulation could be improved for a quieter interior experience.

The powertrain delivers 147 horsepower from a 1.5-liter turbo engine, which suits a compact crossover well. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) works in concert with the engine to provide smooth, efficient progression through gears, outperforming some traditional dual-clutch systems in terms of intake and response.

All markets for this model exclude four-wheel drive; Exeed LX is offered strictly with front-wheel drive. That trait should be remembered when leaving paved roads.

Expect limited off-road capability given front-wheel drive and ground clearance under 19 cm beneath the engine shield. The setup prioritizes urban usability over rugged terrains.

And what about reliability?

Reliability concerns about Chinese-made vehicles persist in many markets, and the Exeed LX is no exception. The engine is a supercharged version of Chery’s SQRE4T15C family, a domestic development that benefits from input by European engineers. The engine’s components are largely sourced in China, including the turbocharger, which bears a Garrett label yet is manufactured in Shanghai. Injectors come from a Chinese supplier, United Automotive Electronic System, and bear similarities to Bosch designs while remaining non-interchangeable.

The 025CHC variable transmission is an in-house development. There have been anecdotal reports of early failures in similar CVTs on other Chery models, but long-term durability remains to be proven in broader real-world use. Time will tell how common such issues prove to be for this line.

Some observers note a tendency among some Chinese manufacturers to shield the engine with decorative shields. That design choice can make service and visual inspection more challenging but is usually cosmetic rather than a functional flaw.

Additionally, a lighthearted nod to maintenance shows an appreciative stance toward practical design, such as keeping the washer reservoir accessible for easy replenishment.

Know how to listen

Exeed LX features voice recognition that responds to natural speech. By saying hello to the system first, drivers can issue commands to operate windows, the sunroof, climate control, or the media system. The built-in multimedia interface is capable of recognizing voice inputs, making everyday adjustments hands-free convenient for busy commuters.

The combination of intuitive voice control and a responsive infotainment system helps the LX feel more contemporary and integrated in a Canadian or American urban setting, where hands-free control adds a meaningful layer of convenience.

How much is it?

In typical configurations, Exeed LX presents two front-wheel-drive variants. The entry model, labeled Basic Luxury, is priced at 2,739,900 rubles, while a higher-end Prestige configuration lists at 3,039,900 rubles. In comparable markets and with equipment parity, popular rivals may carry a higher sticker price, which can influence consumer choice.

• Rear-view camera assistance enhances parking safety and ease.
• The vehicle’s driving information can be accessed via messaging platforms in some configurations.

Citation: automotive press review, vehicle engineering notes, and regional pricing reports discussed in industry analyses. (attribution: International Auto Journal and regional correspondents)