The Exeed Yaoguang 400T, launched in February 2023, represents a significant offering in the burgeoning Chinese SUV market. Positioned as a mid-to-upper range vehicle within the Exeed lineup – a sub-brand of Chery Automobile – the Yaoguang aims to deliver a blend of luxury, technology, and performance. This specific 400T variant, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 261 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission coupled with all-wheel drive, is a key model in establishing Exeed’s brand identity. The Yaoguang competes with established international brands as well as domestic rivals, offering a compelling package for consumers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and technologically advanced SUV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Exeed |
| Model | Yaoguang |
| Generation | Yaoguang |
| Type | 400T (261 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined WLTC) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | China VI b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 146.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 224.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 261 Hp |
| 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 | F4J20 |
| 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 | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1783 kg (3930.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 660 l (23.31 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1783 l (62.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4781 mm (188.23 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Height | 1671 mm (65.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2815 mm (110.83 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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 Yaoguang 400T is the F4J20, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline 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 reducing emissions. The engine produces a peak of 261 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque, available from 1750 to 4000 rpm, providing a broad powerband for responsive acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission is sourced from Aisin, a well-regarded supplier known for smooth shifting and reliability. This transmission is crucial for managing the engine’s power and torque effectively, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The drivetrain is configured as all-wheel drive (AWD), with the engine primarily driving the front wheels and an electronically controlled clutch engaging the rear wheels when traction is needed.
Driving Characteristics
The Yaoguang 400T delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. The 261 hp engine provides ample power for highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a refined driving feel. The AWD system enhances stability and traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. While not a sports SUV, the Yaoguang 400T offers a responsive and engaging driving experience. Compared to lower-powered variants, the 400T provides significantly more acceleration and overall performance. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel efficiency and responsiveness, with lower gears providing quick acceleration and higher gears optimizing fuel economy at cruising speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Yaoguang 400T typically comes well-equipped with standard features including leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These ADAS features often include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional extras can include upgraded sound systems, ventilated front seats, and premium interior trim materials. The interior design emphasizes a modern and luxurious aesthetic, with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort and convenience.
Chassis & Braking
The Yaoguang 400T utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear, providing adequate stopping power. The electric power steering system offers precise and responsive steering feel. The chassis is designed to provide a stable and secure platform, contributing to the vehicle’s overall driving dynamics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Exeed Yaoguang 400T has been generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and competitive pricing. Critics have noted the vehicle’s comfortable ride quality and refined driving experience. Compared to other SUVs in its class, the Yaoguang 400T offers a compelling value proposition, providing a similar level of features and performance at a potentially lower price point. Fuel economy is competitive for its class, achieving around 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) in combined driving conditions. Reliability data is still emerging, but early reports suggest that the Yaoguang is a reasonably reliable vehicle.
Legacy
As a relatively new model, the long-term reliability of the Exeed Yaoguang 400T remains to be fully established. However, the use of proven components from established suppliers like Aisin suggests a good level of durability. The Yaoguang 400T represents Exeed’s ambition to become a major player in the global SUV market. Its success will depend on continued investment in quality, technology, and customer satisfaction. In the used car market, the Yaoguang 400T is expected to hold its value reasonably well, particularly among buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and technologically advanced SUV.
