The Exeed TX 1.6T (197 Hp) DCT, produced between January 2019 and September 2021, represents a significant entry into the burgeoning Chinese luxury SUV market. Exeed, a sub-brand of Chery Automobile, aimed to establish itself as a premium competitor, and the TX was its initial offering. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), was positioned as a mid-range option within the TX lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The TX, and subsequently the TXL (a long-wheelbase version), were designed to appeal to consumers seeking a more refined and technologically advanced SUV experience than typically offered by domestic Chinese brands at the time. It primarily targeted the Chinese market, with limited export sales.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Exeed |
| Model | TX/TXL |
| Generation | TX |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6T (197 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | January, 2019 |
| End of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 197 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 123.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 4000 rpm (213.89 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Acteco / F4J16 |
| 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, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 461 l (16.28 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 970 l (34.26 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4690 mm (184.65 in.) |
| Width | 1885 mm (74.21 in.) |
| Height | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 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 | 225/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Exeed TX 1.6T is the Acteco F4J16 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single scroll turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The engine’s design emphasizes efficiency and responsiveness. The F4J16 engine produces 197 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) was sourced from a supplier and designed to provide quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. DCTs, unlike traditional automatic transmissions, offer faster shift times and a more direct connection to the engine, but can sometimes exhibit jerkiness at low speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The TX 1.6T DCT delivers a reasonably spirited driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.5 seconds, and the top speed is electronically limited to 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The DCT contributes to a responsive feel, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. Compared to lower-powered variants of the TX, the 1.6T offers a noticeable performance advantage. However, it doesn’t match the outright acceleration of potential future performance-oriented trims. The DCT’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency, with taller gears for highway cruising. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides adequate traction in most conditions, but can suffer from torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6T trim of the Exeed TX typically included a generous array of standard features aimed at providing a premium experience. These included leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras often included upgraded sound systems, premium interior trim materials, and a 360-degree camera system. The interior design focused on a modern aesthetic with a minimalist dashboard layout and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The Exeed TX utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration aims to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The steering system is an electric power steering rack and pinion, offering a light and precise feel. The TX 1.6T rides on 19-inch alloy wheels with 225/55 R19 tires.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Exeed TX 1.6T was generally well-received in the Chinese market, with critics praising its stylish design, spacious interior, and advanced technology. However, some reviewers noted that the DCT could be somewhat jerky at low speeds and that the ride quality, while comfortable, wasn’t quite as refined as some of its European competitors. Compared to other trims in the TX lineup, the 1.6T offered a compelling balance between performance and fuel economy. The lower-powered 1.5T variants were more affordable but lacked the same level of punch, while higher-end trims with more powerful engines came at a significant price premium. Fuel economy figures of 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The Exeed TX 1.6T DCT played a crucial role in establishing Exeed as a viable player in the Chinese luxury SUV segment. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the Acteco engine and DCT transmission have generally proven to be reasonably durable. On the used car market, the TX 1.6T represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a well-equipped and relatively modern SUV. Its combination of performance, features, and price has made it a popular choice among Chinese consumers, and it continues to be a common sight on the roads today. The TX paved the way for further expansion of the Exeed brand and the introduction of additional models.
