Comprehensive Review of the Soueast DX3

The car you see is the Soueast DX3, a Chinese SUV that looks good and costs 53,500 Dirhams. Today, I am going to answer if it is worth your hard-earned money. Let’s get started!

Drive

Before diving into the driving experience, let’s introduce the brand, as chances are you’ve never heard of Soueast before. Soueast is a Chinese automotive manufacturer formed through a joint venture between three companies: Fujian Motor, Taiwan China Motor, and Mitsubishi Motors. Although they aren’t very well-known internationally, they produce over 180,000 cars per year in China.

The DX3 is powered by a Mitsubishi-sourced all-aluminum MIVEC 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 154 horsepower and 225 Nm of torque through a CVT gearbox manufactured by Belgian company Punch Powertrain. While there is a Sport Mode available, its main change is the color of the instrument cluster from a pleasant white to a blazing red.

In terms of driving aids, the DX3 includes:

• Cruise control
• Speed limiter
• Hill descent control
• Auto hold feature
• Turning lights that illuminate in the direction you turn

Our fuel economy figure at 9.8L/100km is commendable, although not as good as the claimed average.

However, the DX3 suffers from a common issue related to small turbo engines and CVT gearboxes. The lag from the turbo spooling and the CVT engaging can catch drivers off-guard when approaching a stop sign or set of traffic lights.

Interior

Inside, the DX3 features a dual-tone color scheme with seats and door panels finished in grey and black faux leather. The minimalistic design, complemented by chrome around the A/C vents and faux carbon fiber accents, gives it a more upscale appearance.

The rear seat offers ample space, although the seats do not slide or recline. There are two cup holders and USB ports for charging devices, but the absence of rear A/C vents is a downside.

Features

The DX3 comes loaded with features, which raises the question: all of this for just 53,500 Dirhams? Some notable features include:

• Remote engine starter
• Automatic headlights
• Full-length panoramic roof
• 360-degree cameras
• Ambient lighting system
• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• 9-inch touch infotainment screen
• Push Button Starter

However, while the features are impressive, the infotainment screen feels like an aftermarket fitment, and the resolution of the 360-degree cameras could be improved.

Exterior

The design of the DX3 is commendable. The dual-tone color scheme, featuring a blacked-out roof and side mirrors, enhances its aesthetic appeal. The front includes LED daytime running lights with halogen headlamps, and the sides are adorned with 18-inch alloy wheels and side steps. My favorite design element is the floating roof.

Verdict

Considering the Soueast DX3 is priced at 53,500 Dirhams including VAT and comes with a 5-year/150,000km warranty, is it worth your hard-earned money? On one hand, yes, it is. If you were to visit a Japanese automaker’s showroom with just 53,000 Dirhams, you’d likely walk out with a very basic hatchback.

That said, there are crossovers within the DX3’s price range, such as the Renault Duster and the Ford EcoSport. While they may not offer as many features, they are from more established brands. If you had a budget of 53,000 Dirhams, which one would you choose? Share your thoughts in the comments below. If you're considering a vehicle purchase, be sure to contact the leading insurance provider in the country, InsuranceMarket.ae™.