Luxeed prepares its big leap: this Chinese SUV aims to compete with the Xiaomi YU7 and German brands

Luxeed continues to take steps to strengthen its position in the Chinese market with a refresh of the R7, one of the most important models for a brand that remains largely unknown to many European drivers. The new Luxeed R7 will feature more advanced technology inside the cabin, new colors, and some changes to its propulsion system, with the brand preparing to open orders this September.

The Luxeed name belongs to Chery, one of China’s major automakers with a strong presence in Europe, having acquired Nissan’s former plant in Barcelona. This brand is partnered with technology giant Huawei as its technical ally.

This detail is important for understanding the potential Luxeed could have outside of China. The manufacturer still focuses its operations on the Chinese market, but it has two highly influential partners: Chery for manufacturing and Huawei for technology. At a time when Xiaomi is preparing to enter Europe by 2027, with the YU7 being one of the natural candidates to compete in the large electric SUV market, a potential move by Luxeed to the continent could put the R7 against Xiaomi’s models as well as those from German brands.

A much more technologically advanced interior for the Luxeed R7

The refreshed Luxeed R7 retains the overall design of the current model. It is a coupe-style SUV with a closed front end, prominently featured lighting units, and a rear section highlighted by a light strip running along the trunk lid. The small spoiler integrated on the rear also adds a sportier touch without drastically changing the model’s appearance.

Its dimensions place the R7 in a category that fits perfectly with the type of vehicle gaining prominence in Europe. The updated model measures 4.98 meters in length, with a wheelbase of 2,950 mm. The trunk capacity reaches 852 liters, a particularly impressive figure for a SUV of this class.

The most noticeable evolution can be seen in the interior. Luxeed has introduced a new design called Flowing Light Surrounding Cabin, along with new purple upholstery aimed at giving it a more technological and distinctive look. The most eye-catching feature is the dual 17.2-inch screen system, which creates a large digital display in front of the passengers.

The equipment also includes some features that are uncommon even among Chinese models in this category. The R7 will be equipped with a smart refrigerator that maintains a constant temperature, a 220-volt power outlet, intelligent connectivity between the car and home, a one-touch content transfer system, and a rest mode. It will also feature a large panoramic roof along with various functions designed to turn the interior into a sort of extension of the user’s digital ecosystem.

In terms of driving assistance, the R7 leverages one of the key strengths of the partnership between Chery and Huawei. The current model is equipped with 36 sensors, a solid-state lidar, six external microphones, three distributed 4D millimeter-wave radars, and two 4D radars located at the front corners. It also features an 896-line lidar with dual optical paths, along with the HUAWEI ADS 4 system.

This technology enables route assistance between different destinations, parking assistance, and new intelligent parking functions. It is precisely these types of systems that could turn the R7 into a compelling rival to European models if Luxeed decides to shift its strategy to the continent.

There are also updates in terms of the mechanical specifications. The new R7 will feature an electric motor produced by Huawei Digital Energy with a maximum power of 227 kW, equivalent to around 309 horsepower. This represents an increase compared to the current R7, which is equipped with a single electric motor. The Chinese version of this model has also come in all-wheel-drive versions and with electric powertrains featuring range extenders, though the details provided here refer to this specific configuration, and not all specifics of the updated lineup have yet been disclosed.

Luxeed plans to open orders for the new R7 in September, though no price has been announced for the European market yet, and there is no official confirmation that the model will be sold outside China.

The potential arrival in Europe is particularly interesting given the timing. Xiaomi has already confirmed it will start selling its cars in Europe in 2027, and the YU7 is one of the models that best fits the European demand for large electric SUVs. The Xiaomi YU7 is 4,999 meters long with a wheelbase of 3,000 meters, making it virtually the same size as the R7.

The competition won’t be limited to new Chinese brands either. In terms of size, technology, and approach, the Luxeed R7 could end up competing directly with models from German manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or Audi. It is here that the combination of Huawei’s technology and Chery’s manufacturing capabilities could become one of the brand’s key strengths.

For now, however, it’s wise to remain cautious. Luxeed has not officially confirmed its entry into Europe, nor has it announced prices, versions, or a sales network for this market. But if Chery decides to use the R7 as one of its technological products for Europe, we’ll be looking at an SUV with features that fit perfectly into the segment where Xiaomi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi will have to compete in the years ahead.