Hybrid Without Fuss: A Winter Test of the Exeed Exlantix ET

The manufacturer has repeatedly promised to adapt the Exeed Exlantix ET hybrid crossover for our market, and winter conditions provided a good opportunity to check what exactly has changed and how noticeable these refinements are in everyday use. The test took place in near-freezing temperatures and on different types of roads — from city streets to highways.

The Exlantix ET is part of Exeed's premium line, which is included in the structure of the Chery group. In terms of positioning, the model is close to what Lexus or Infiniti once were for Japanese brands. Interestingly, in China the same crossover is sold as the Exeed Sterra ET, while in most foreign markets the name Exlantix ET is used without mentioning the Exeed brand. In Russia, the idea of a separate marque was abandoned, integrating the model into the already familiar lineup, where it is joined by the ES hybrid sedan.

For the Russian market, the bet is placed exclusively on a series hybrid. The crossover is driven by two electric motors — 150 kW at the front and 195 kW at the rear, which together produce 469 hp. Energy is supplied by a 40 kWh CATL lithium iron phosphate battery, while the 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with 156 hp serves only as a generator. The maximum claimed range reaches 1,180 km, but in real winter conditions you can expect about 800 km, and the onboard computer predicts the remaining range quite accurately.

Visually, the Russian-market Exlantix ET differs from the Chinese version with a redesigned front end featuring a pseudo-grille of vertical slats and different lighting units. An enlarged washer fluid reservoir, heated windshield and steering wheel were also added for the local market, while the panoramic roof was fitted with a full sunshade. Otherwise, the architecture remains the same — restrained design without any attempt to shock, relying more on status than on flashiness.

The interior is completely subordinated to the idea of digital minimalism. There are almost no physical buttons, with function control concentrated in the multimedia system. In a light-colored trim, the cabin gives the impression of an ultra-modern living space with clean lines and quality materials. The visual emphasis is created by three displays: a compact digital instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch central screen, and a large head-up display. The interface is logical, and the key climate control elements always remain in view.

There is noticeably more space inside than you would expect from a crossover of this format. The absence of a massive center console adds to the feeling of airiness, while the second row pleases not only with roominess but also with power adjustment, massage, and a separate climate zone. The trunk is also impressive, and with the rear seatbacks folded down it forms an almost flat area more than 2 meters long, which is rare even among large SUVs.

On the move, the Exlantix ET is aimed first and foremost at comfort. The quiet cabin, soft seats, good sound insulation, and air suspension with adaptive dampers make the ride relaxing even on poor surfaces. The suspension simply ignores small bumps, while broken roads do not require reducing speed. The other side of this character is the lack of vivid driving emotions: the steering is light, responses are smoothed out, and the dynamics, despite the impressive power figures, are perceived calmly and without drama.

Winter use brings no surprises. The cabin warms up quickly, the heaters work efficiently, all-wheel drive handles snow confidently, and strict electronics monitor traction. The air suspension allows the ground clearance to vary from 147 to 217 mm depending on the mode, which helps both on snow-covered roads and when getting out of snowdrifts. At the same time, the hybrid setup eliminates concerns about winter range: a full tank solves the issue of long trips without having to think about battery charge and the availability of charging stations.