The Exeed VX 290T, produced from March to September 2021, represents a significant entry into the mid-size SUV segment for the Chinese automaker Exeed, a sub-brand of Chery. This variant, characterized by its 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing 197 horsepower and paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), was positioned as a mainstream offering within the broader VX lineup, aiming to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The VX itself is a seven-seat SUV, designed to appeal to families and those requiring substantial passenger and cargo space. It was primarily marketed within the Chinese domestic market, reflecting the growing demand for larger, feature-rich SUVs in that region.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Exeed |
| Model | VX |
| Generation | VX |
| Type (Engine) | 290T (197 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | March, 2021 |
| End of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 197 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 123.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm (213.89 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4000 rpm) |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1771 kg (3904.39 lbs) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4970 mm (195.67 in) |
| Width | 1940 mm (76.38 in) |
| Height | 1795 mm (70.67 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2900 mm (114.17 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 | 7 gears, 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 | 235/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Exeed VX 290T is the SQRF4J16, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger to boost power output. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, improving both efficiency and performance. The turbocharger provides increased air intake, resulting in a higher compression ratio and more power. The engine produces 197 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 4000 rpm. This torque curve is designed to provide ample pulling power for everyday driving and highway overtaking. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). DCTs offer faster and smoother gear changes compared to traditional automatic transmissions, contributing to a more responsive driving experience. The DCT in the VX 290T is tuned for a balance between performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The VX 290T offers a comfortable and composed driving experience. The 197 hp engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, although it isn’t particularly sporty. Acceleration is brisk, but not exhilarating. The DCT transmission contributes to smooth gear changes, and the engine’s torque curve ensures good responsiveness in everyday traffic. Compared to higher-output versions of the VX (if available in certain markets), the 290T prioritizes fuel efficiency and a more relaxed driving style. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but it lacks the all-weather capability of an all-wheel-drive system. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well. The steering is light and easy to use, making it suitable for urban driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Exeed VX 290T typically came well-equipped, reflecting the brand’s positioning as a premium offering within the Chinese market. Standard features generally included leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Interior design focused on a modern aesthetic with a clean dashboard layout and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The VX 290T utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing strong stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. Electric power steering provides a light and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Exeed VX 290T was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and generous equipment levels. Critics noted that the engine, while adequate, wasn’t the most powerful in its class. Compared to other seven-seat SUVs in the Chinese market, the VX 290T offered a competitive combination of features, space, and price. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Reliability reports are limited due to the relatively short production run and primarily domestic market focus.
Legacy
The Exeed VX 290T represents an early effort by Exeed to establish itself as a credible player in the competitive SUV market. While its production run was relatively short, it laid the foundation for future Exeed models. On the used car market, the VX 290T is likely to be valued for its spaciousness, features, and relatively modern design. The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and 7-speed DCT transmission are generally considered reliable, but regular maintenance is crucial to ensure long-term durability. As with any used vehicle, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s history and condition before making a purchase.
