The Exeed VX 400T (261 Hp) 4WD Aisin, introduced in November 2023 as part of the VX facelift, represents a significant offering in the mid-size SUV segment. Positioned as a premium trim within the broader VX lineup, this variant combines a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission sourced from Aisin. The VX, as a whole, is a key model for Exeed, Chery Automobile’s premium sub-brand, aimed at competing with established international brands in both the Chinese domestic market and increasingly, export markets. This particular configuration targets buyers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability in a seven-passenger SUV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Exeed |
| Model | VX |
| Generation | VX (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 400T (261 Hp) 4WD Aisin |
| Start of production | November, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined WLTC) | 8.98 l/100 km (26.2 US mpg, 31.5 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 208.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 261 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 130.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-4000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SQRF4J20 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (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, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.4 l (10.99 US qt | 9.15 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4970 mm (195.67 in.) |
| Width | 1940 mm (76.38 in.) |
| Height | 1792 mm (70.55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2900 mm (114.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Rear track | 1644 mm (64.72 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear driven via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Aisin |
| 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 | 245/50 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Exeed VX 400T is the SQRF4J20, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to produce 261 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 4000 rpm. The engine’s design emphasizes a broad torque curve for responsive acceleration in everyday driving situations. The Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission is a crucial component, known for its smooth shifting characteristics and efficiency. This transmission is paired with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that automatically distributes torque between the front and rear axles based on driving conditions, enhancing stability and traction. The system typically operates in front-wheel drive mode for fuel efficiency, engaging the rear wheels when slip is detected or during more demanding driving scenarios.
Driving Characteristics
The VX 400T delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. The 8-speed Aisin transmission provides smooth and timely gear changes, contributing to a refined feel. While not a sports SUV, the 261 hp engine provides ample power for overtaking and highway cruising. The all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence in various weather conditions. Compared to lower-powered VX variants, the 400T offers noticeably quicker acceleration and a more relaxed driving experience, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel economy and performance, with taller gears for highway efficiency and shorter gears for quicker response.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 400T trim typically includes a high level of standard equipment. This often encompasses 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. Additional features may include heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, and a 360-degree camera system. Optional extras could include upgraded interior trim materials, a head-up display, and a more sophisticated ADAS package.
Chassis & Braking
The Exeed VX utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort, but still offers reasonable body control. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with ABS and electronic stability control. The chassis is reinforced to handle the increased power and weight of the 400T variant, ensuring structural rigidity and safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Exeed VX 400T has been generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and comprehensive feature set. Critics have noted the engine’s strong performance and the smooth operation of the Aisin transmission. Compared to other VX trims, the 400T offers a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price point. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, is competitive within its class. Reliability reports are still emerging, but early indications suggest that the powertrain is proving to be durable.
Legacy
The Exeed VX 400T represents a step forward for the Exeed brand, demonstrating its commitment to producing high-quality, technologically advanced SUVs. The combination of the SQRF4J20 engine and the Aisin 8-speed transmission is expected to prove reliable over the long term. As the VX gains traction in export markets, the 400T variant is likely to become a key driver of sales, appealing to buyers who prioritize performance and refinement in a family-sized SUV. The long-term value of this powertrain configuration will depend on factors such as maintenance practices and the availability of spare parts, but its solid engineering suggests it will remain a viable option in the used car market for years to come.
