The Evolution of the Exeed VX: From Flagship Concept to Global Luxury SUV

Exeed

The Exeed VX is the flagship SUV of Chery’s premium Exeed division, representing the brand’s ambition to compete in the global mid-size luxury crossover segment. Since its debut in the early 2020s, the VX has evolved through multiple updates, powertrain changes, and trim expansions, including the addition of hybrid technology. Though still relatively new, the model has already undergone significant development between its 2021 launch and its current form.

This article explores the full evolution of the Exeed VX, including production years, trims and models, engineering changes, and future outlook.

Origins and Concept Development (2019–2020)

The Exeed VX began as a concept vehicle revealed at the Guangzhou Auto Show 2019, where it previewed a large, three-row SUV positioned above the smaller Exeed TX.

The concept emphasized:

  • A premium design language
  • A spacious three-row interior (2+3+2 seating layout)
  • Advanced technology and hidden design elements such as flush door handles

The production version was unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show 2020, remaining largely faithful to the concept.

Sales officially began in March 2021, marking the start of the VX’s production lifecycle.

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First Generation (2021–2023)

Production Years: 2021–2023

The first production phase of the Exeed VX ran from 2021 through 2023, establishing the SUV as the brand’s flagship offering.

Platform and Layout

  • Built on the M3X platform
  • Front-engine, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
  • Seven-seat configuration

This platform emphasized structural rigidity, safety, and ride comfort, aligning with the VX’s premium positioning.

Engine Options and Models

During its initial production phase, the VX was offered with two primary engine families:

1. 290T Model (2021 only)

  • 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four
  • 197 horsepower
  • 7-speed dual-clutch transmission
  • Front-wheel drive

This was the entry-level model, produced only during 2021 before being discontinued.

2. 390T Model (2021–2023)

  • 2.0-liter turbocharged engine
  • Approximately 230 horsepower (varies by market)
  • 7-speed dual-clutch transmission
  • FWD or AWD

This trim became the core offering for most buyers.

3. 400T Model (2021–2023)

  • Upgraded 2.0-liter turbo engine
  • Up to 249 horsepower
  • Larger fuel tank and enhanced performance
  • AWD availability

The 400T represented the top-tier gasoline model in the early lineup.

Trim Levels (Regional Variations)

Trim structures varied by market, but commonly included:

  • Base / Comfort trims (standard features, cloth or basic leather interiors)
  • Luxury trims (enhanced infotainment, premium materials)
  • Flagship trims (full technology suite, AWD, panoramic roof, advanced driver aids)

In markets such as Russia, early trims included:

  • Prestige (added later)
  • President
  • President Limited Edition

These trims highlighted the VX’s luxury aspirations, with features such as large digital displays, ambient lighting, and premium seating.

Facelift and Second Phase (2023–Present)

Production Years: 2023–Present

A major facelift introduced in 2023 marked the second phase of the Exeed VX’s evolution.

This update included both mechanical and interior changes, significantly modernizing the vehicle.

Key Changes in the 2023 Facelift

1. Powertrain Updates

  • Removal of the 1.6L (290T) engine
  • Focus on the 2.0L turbocharged engine (400T)
  • Introduction of an 8-speed automatic transmission replacing the earlier dual-clutch in high-end trims

2. Trim and Configuration Updates

The facelift introduced more clearly defined configurations:

  • 400T FWD (standard)
  • 400T AWD (premium)
  • Optional six-seat layout for higher trims

This simplified the lineup while improving refinement.

3. Interior Overhaul

The 2023 update featured a completely redesigned interior, including:

  • Larger dual-screen digital displays
  • Improved materials and build quality
  • Enhanced driver-assistance systems

These changes elevated the VX closer to established luxury competitors.

Trim Levels (Post-2023)

Trim naming varies globally, but common categories include:

  • Prestige (entry-level luxury)
  • Luxury / Elite trims
  • Flagship / President trims

The addition of a six-seat executive configuration further enhanced its appeal as a premium family SUV.

Plug-In Hybrid Expansion: VX C-DM (2025–Present)

Production Years: 2025–Present

A major milestone in the VX’s evolution came with the introduction of the VX C-DM plug-in hybrid in 2025.

Powertrain and Performance

The C-DM variant features:

  • 1.5-liter turbocharged engine (Miller cycle)
  • Dual electric motors (front) plus rear motor for AWD
  • Combined output of up to 610 horsepower
  • 34.46 kWh battery
  • Electric range of approximately 143 km (89 miles) WLTP

This makes it one of the most powerful vehicles in its class.

Model Positioning

The VX C-DM sits at the top of the lineup, offering:

  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • High-performance acceleration (0–62 mph in about 4.3 seconds)
  • Long combined driving range exceeding 1,200 km

It represents Exeed’s move into electrified luxury SUVs.

Global Market Expansion

Since its launch, the Exeed VX has expanded beyond China into several international markets, including:

  • Russia
  • Middle East
  • Central and South America

In some regions, it is sold under alternative names such as:

  • Exeed Lanyue (China)
  • Xtrim VX/QX (Iran)

Plans to enter the United States under the “Vantas” brand were announced but ultimately canceled due to the bankruptcy of the importer.

Design Evolution

Exterior

Across its lifecycle, the VX has maintained a consistent design language:

  • Large grille with horizontal elements
  • Clean, understated luxury styling
  • Minimal changes during facelift updates

Interior

The most significant evolution has occurred inside the cabin:

  • Early models: conventional luxury layout
  • 2023 facelift: fully digital cockpit
  • Hybrid models: enhanced tech integration and premium materials

Technology and Features

Throughout its evolution, the VX has consistently emphasized technology, including:

  • Advanced infotainment systems
  • Large panoramic displays
  • Driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
  • Connectivity features (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto in some markets)

These features position it competitively against global rivals.

Position in the Market

The Exeed VX competes in the mid-size luxury SUV segment alongside vehicles such as:

  • Toyota Highlander
  • Hyundai Palisade
  • Kia Telluride

Its key advantages include:

  • Competitive pricing
  • High feature content
  • Strong powertrain options, especially the hybrid variant

Future Outlook

Electrification and Hybrid Growth

The introduction of the VX C-DM suggests that Exeed will continue expanding electrified options, potentially including:

  • Fully electric variants
  • Larger battery capacities
  • Improved efficiency

Continued Global Expansion

Exeed is actively pursuing international growth, and the VX is expected to remain a key export model.

Technology Development

Future updates are likely to include:

  • More advanced autonomous driving features
  • Over-the-air software updates
  • Enhanced infotainment ecosystems

The Exeed VX has evolved rapidly from a concept vehicle in 2019 to a fully realized global luxury SUV lineup by 2026. Produced since 2021, it has undergone:

  • A complete initial launch phase (2021–2023)
  • A major facelift and refinement phase (2023–present)
  • The introduction of a high-performance plug-in hybrid variant (2025–present)

With multiple engine options, evolving trim structures, and expanding global availability, the VX demonstrates how quickly modern automotive brands can develop competitive products.

As Exeed continues to innovate and expand, the VX is likely to remain at the center of its lineup—serving as both a technological showcase and a key player in the increasingly competitive luxury SUV market.

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