Shereen Shabnam
My first interaction with Exeed was during a visit to China but it took me a few days to discover that it was Chery’s premium sub-brand – it has been steadily building its reputation for crafting crossovers and SUVs that blend modern design with high-value technology. More recently, we went to the opening of their showroom on Sheikh Zayed Road which led to us to taking their cars for test drives, starting with the RX, which is among its latest entries. It is a plug-in hybrid SUV that aims to deliver electrified efficiency without sacrificing comfort, practicality, or style. After a thorough drive, it’s clear the RX wants to be more than just another alternative: it wants to set the benchmark for premium Chinese crossovers.
Exterior
The Exeed RX looks every bit the contemporary upmarket SUV. At the front, a wide grille with intricate detailing is framed by slim LED headlights and distinctive vertical daytime running lights that make it instantly recognizable. Crisp shoulder lines flow into a strong rear haunch, giving the RX a planted, confident stance. Around back, a full-width LED light bar and clean surfacing emphasize the SUV’s modern aesthetic. Subtle chrome touches, flush door handles, and bold alloy wheels round out a design that feels cohesive and upscale.
Interior
Inside, the Exeed RX showcases the brand’s focus on refinement. The cabin welcomes you with a clean, horizontal dashboard layout wrapped in soft-touch materials and accented by brushed metal and piano-black trims. A curved dual-screen setup stretches across the dash, blending the digital instrument cluster and infotainment display into a seamless interface. Seats are trimmed in high-quality leather, offering heating, ventilation, and multiple power adjustments. In the rear, passengers enjoy generous legroom and their own climate controls, while a large panoramic sunroof floods the space with light. Every detail feels carefully considered to create a premium atmosphere.
Technology
Exeed has loaded the RX with an impressive suite of features. The twin 12.3-inch displays serve as the nerve center for the vehicle’s infotainment and vehicle controls, with sharp graphics and intuitive menus. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as does over-the-air software updating. A premium surround sound system elevates the audio experience, and a head-up display keeps key information in the driver’s line of sight. The model also boasts advanced driver assistance, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and a 360-degree camera system that makes maneuvering effortless.
Performance
Under the hood, the RX pairs a turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and a sizable battery pack, delivering a combined output of approximately 240 hp (varies slightly depending on market specification). Electric-only driving covers short commutes or errands, and when the petrol engine engages, the transition is smooth and nearly imperceptible. The e-motor’s instant torque gives the RX eager acceleration at city speeds, while the suspension does a good job balancing comfort and composure over rough patches. The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction on slippery surfaces, further boosting driver confidence.
Our Verdict
The Exeed RX makes a strong case for itself in a segment crowded with established names. It combines handsome styling, an impressively appointed interior, advanced technology, and an efficient plug-in hybrid system that works seamlessly in daily use. If you are shopping for a mid-size electrified SUV that offers premium features without the premium badge, the RX is becoming a model to watch and buy with confidence.
