1. These machines are unknown to us
Not sure that way. Official Iranian cars were delivered to Russia in the second half of the 2000s (albeit not for long). These were Iran Khodro models. Through its own dealer network, the Samand brand sold sedans on the platform of the time-honored Peugeot 405 and Peugeot 206 hatchbacks.
The appearance of the latter did not please the representation of the French brand and imports stopped. However, after some time, the sedan 206 assembly of the same Iran Khodro began to be sold again. But already through official Peugeot dealers.
2. There are no service and spare parts
With the use of a dealer network, there will most likely be no problems. Empty car dealerships of vanished brands are just looking for someone to take under their roof. Recent examples: the Omoda and Skywell brands, which immediately recruited dozens of people to trade them.
A significant part of the spare parts for the “Iranians” will be original. But local companies have located many components and their deliveries are unlikely to be subject to sanctions.
In addition, most of the cars from the largest manufacturer Iran Khodro are Peugeot. This means that something will turn out unified, with a large assortment of analogues.
Motorcycles are still being made in Iran, leading a pedigree of the units of the PSA alliance. The sources were known to be very reliable.
3. The body is not for our conditions
Iran has mountainous regions with cold climates and humid zones. Therefore, one should not think that the metal of local machines is “sharpened” for life exclusively in dry and hot weather.
The used Peugeot 206 tested by us is proof of that. He spent 15 years in Russia. There are a lot of flakes on the bodywork and areas where the paint has come off in pieces. But no rust, thresholds and bottom in excellent condition.
Although with a caveat. 206 sedans look good for the most part. But Iran Khodro Samand is actively rotting. But apparently Iranian models of this quality are a thing of the past forever.
4. Everything Else Is “Southern” Too
Also no! The Peugeot 206 sedan warms up perfectly with a heater, it starts up in cold weather without any problems. Ground clearance is low – so it’s not the fault of the Iranians, but a feature of the original model.
In terms of equipment, cars from Iran belong to the “state personnel” segment, but they have everything they need. By the way, ABS and airbags produce their own there. Well, except that the heater may not be a complete set.
5. Can’t fix it by yourself
Basic maintenance work can be carried out independently. For example, in the current line of Iran Khodro there are sedans that lead the pedigree of the Peugeot 405, 306 and 301. All of them are no more difficult to repair than other cars of the same age from Europe, Japan, Asia.
- “Behind the wheel” can also be read on VKontakte.