Photo Courtesy: Autorpeublika.Russian company AGR Holding and Chinese firm Defetoo, creators of the domestic brands Tenet, Tenet Plus, and Jeland, announced another new brand at the end of April. This time, it is a premium marque called Esteo.Information from homologation records quickly revealed the real background. Esteo is arriving as a replacement for Chery’s Exeed brand, which has already been linked to cooperation with AGR and Defetoo.The first model from Esteo will be the midsize MX SUV. In its previous form, this vehicle was known as the Exeed TXL.AdvertisementAdvertisementThat connection is important because the TXL was the first model launched by Exeed seven years ago. Since then, it has gone through several redesigns, and the new Esteo version marks another major step in that evolution.A New Look Based On A Newer Exeed ModelPhoto Courtesy: Autorepublika.The Exeed TXL currently sold in Russia comes from the 2024 model year, but the Esteo MX is based on the newer hybrid Exeed Sterra E05 crossover, which was introduced in China in August 2025.The biggest difference compared with the familiar TXL is visible immediately. The front end now has a new two-level lighting layout and a different overall appearance.The gasoline-powered Esteo MX also receives its own front bumper with a larger grille. At the rear, there are new connected taillights and a simpler bumper design.AdvertisementAdvertisementBecause of the revised bodywork, the Esteo MX is slightly shorter than its predecessor. It measures 188.0 inches long, compared with 188.2 inches for the previous version. Height has been reduced from 68.1 to 67.9 inches, while width remains 74.4 inches and the wheelbase stays at 110.2 inches.More Ground Clearance For RussiaPhoto Courtesy: Autorepublika.As part of the adaptation for Russian conditions, ground clearance has been increased from 7.5 to 8.3 inches. The washer fluid tank has also been enlarged and now holds about 1.8 gallons.Buyers will be offered 19- or 20-inch wheels, depending on the version.Inside, the Esteo MX receives a completely new cabin. Almost nothing remains from the old Exeed TXL dashboard.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe driver gets a 10.25-inch display, the front passenger has a 12.3-inch screen, and the center of the dashboard is dominated by a 15.6-inch multimedia display.A Much More Modern CabinPhoto Courtesy: Autorepublika.The center tunnel includes 50 W wireless charging pads, cupholders, and physical climate control buttons. The panoramic roof comes with an electric opening section and a power sunshade.A winter package is also planned. It includes heating for the steering wheel, all seats, exterior mirrors, washer nozzles, windshield, and rear glass. Remote engine start will also be available.The richest version brings laminated front door glass, Nappa leather upholstery, ventilation for all seats, front seats with massage, climate control with air filtration and ionization, a BOYA Sound audio system with 21 speakers and 1,080 W of power, and an AI-based voice assistant.All-Wheel Drive And One Engine ChoiceThe original Exeed TXL is offered only with all-wheel drive, but buyers can choose between two engines. The base option is a 98 cubic inch TGDI turbocharged gasoline engine with 194 hp and 203 lb ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe stronger version uses a 122 cubic inch turbocharged gasoline engine with 197 hp and 277 lb ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.The Esteo MX keeps all-wheel drive, but the 122 cubic inch turbo engine will be the only available option.Production of the Esteo MX will take place at AGR’s factory in Shushary, the former General Motors plant. The SUV is expected to reach the Russian market this summer, when prices will also be announced.This article originally appeared on Autorepublika.com and has been republished with permission by Guessing Headlights. AI-assisted translation was used, followed by human editing and review.If you want more stories like this, follow Guessing Headlights on Yahoo so you don’t miss what’s coming next.
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