The Exeed VX 400T (facelift 2023) represents a significant offering in the mid-size SUV segment, particularly within the Chinese automotive market. Introduced in November 2023, this variant builds upon the foundation of the original VX, a seven-seat SUV positioned as a premium offering from Exeed, Chery Automobile’s luxury sub-brand. The 400T designation signifies the engine powering this version – a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 261 horsepower, paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission sourced from Aisin. This combination aims to balance performance with refinement and fuel efficiency, targeting buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped SUV with a degree of sporting capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Exeed |
| Model | VX |
| Generation | VX (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 400T (261 Hp) Aisin |
| Start of production | November, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined WLTC) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 141.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217.4 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) |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 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 | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | 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 1.998-liter (2.0L) inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion efficiency and contributing to the engine’s 261 horsepower peak at 5500 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1750 rpm to 4000 rpm. This broad torque curve is a key characteristic, designed to provide responsive acceleration in everyday driving situations. The engine’s architecture is relatively conventional, employing a four-valve-per-cylinder configuration and a timing chain for durability. The Aisin eight-speed automatic transmission is a crucial component, chosen for its smooth shifting characteristics and efficiency. It’s a torque converter automatic, offering a balance between comfort and performance. The transmission is programmed to prioritize fuel economy during normal driving, but can quickly downshift when more power is demanded.
Driving Characteristics
The VX 400T delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. The 261 hp output provides ample power for overtaking and highway cruising, though it doesn’t offer the outright acceleration of some competitors with larger displacement engines. The Aisin transmission contributes to smooth gear changes, minimizing harshness. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides adequate traction in most conditions, but may exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration. The suspension, tuned for comfort, effectively absorbs bumps and irregularities in the road surface. Compared to lower-powered VX variants, the 400T offers a noticeably more engaging driving experience, particularly when utilizing the transmission’s manual shift mode. However, it doesn’t quite match the dynamic sharpness of some European-market SUVs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 400T trim typically represents a mid-to-high level of specification within the VX lineup. Standard features generally include leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems (such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking), and a premium sound system. Optional extras often include upgraded interior trim materials, ventilated front seats, and a head-up display. The interior design emphasizes spaciousness and comfort, with ample legroom and headroom for all seven passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The VX 400T utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The chassis is reinforced to handle the increased power output of the 400T engine. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. The electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
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 that while the engine offers good performance, it doesn’t quite match the refinement of some European competitors. Fuel economy is respectable, but not class-leading. Compared to the lower-powered VX variants, the 400T offers a significant performance upgrade, justifying the higher price tag for buyers prioritizing driving enjoyment. Compared to other seven-seat SUVs in the Chinese market, the VX 400T offers a compelling value proposition, particularly considering its level of equipment and spaciousness.
Legacy
As a relatively recent model, the long-term reliability of the Exeed VX 400T powertrain remains to be fully established. However, the Aisin transmission has a reputation for durability, and the SQRF4J20 engine benefits from Chery’s extensive experience in engine development. Early reports suggest that the powertrain is generally reliable, but regular maintenance is crucial to ensure longevity. In the used car market, the 400T variant is likely to command a premium over lower-powered versions, due to its increased performance and desirability. Its position as a well-equipped and spacious seven-seat SUV should ensure continued demand in the years to come.
