Market Overview
Foreign cars are no longer popular in the Russian light commercial vehicle (LCV) market. Currently, only two domestic manufacturers remain: GAZ and UAZ. Sollers ranks third.
Introducing the Sollers Atlant
The new Sollers Atlant is positioned as a direct competitor to both the GAZelle and Ford Transit—brands that are no longer partners with Sollers. The starting price is 2,904,000 rubles.
Range and Specifications
- Body types: Chassis (bare or with add-ons), van, combi, bus
- Roof heights: Two options
- Lengths: 4,900mm, 5,650mm, 5,990mm
- Gross vehicle weight (GVW): 2.5t, 3.5t, or 4.2t
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (like the GAZelle)
Engines
The original JAC Sunray comes with a 190hp petrol turbo engine. For the Atlant, there are two diesel options:
- 1.9-liter diesel: 139hp
- 2.7-liter diesel: 150hp, 355Nm of torque, with AdBlue urea injection system
Both engines feature a timing chain drive. The difference in displacement does not translate to major performance differences.
Transmission and Maintenance
Both engine options use a six-speed manual transmission.
- Oil changes: Every 45,000km (first at 15,000km)
- Sollers recommends a maintenance schedule every 20,000km, but car maintenance needs may differ. It is advisable to purchase a package of several MOTs at the time of buying to secure current pricing for parts and labor.
Interior and Equipment
The cabin is spacious enough for three adults to sleep comfortably. Standard equipment is impressive and includes:
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Electronic stability control (ESC)
- Two airbags
- Central locking with key buttons
- Audio system with steering wheel controls
- Cruise control
- Air conditioning
- Electric accessories
- Heated mirrors and seats
- Rear parking sensors
Options and Pricing
- Custom paint: 225,000 rubles
- Alarm system with auto start and turbo timer: 50,000 rubles
- Fog lights: 67,000 rubles
However, some features are missing:
- No cup holders, no overhead shelves, no document storage
- Instead of a power socket, only a cigarette lighter
- Driver’s seat is set far from the door, making it uncomfortable to lean
Steering column tilt adjustment is not present, despite expectations. In some models, climate control is available instead of standard air conditioning, and a full-featured media system can be installed.
Driving Impressions
- The 2.7L diesel engine offers strong acceleration.
- The stabilization system performs well in snowy conditions.
- Sound insulation is poor; vibrations and engine noise are not well dampened, especially compared to the Ford Transit.
- The first gear engagement is subpar and might worsen or improve with use. Other gears engage smoothly.
Cargo Capacity
Depending on roof height and length, van cargo volume ranges from 7.5 to 12.5 cubic meters.
Areas for Improvement
- The driver’s seat is uncomfortably distant from the door, making it impossible to lean.
- Only the right armrest is provided; a matching left one would improve comfort.
Technical Summary (Sollers Atlant 3.5T L3H2)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Length/Width/Height/Base | 5,990/2,098/2,645/3,570mm |
| Number of seats | 3 |
| Cargo volume | 12,500L |
| Engine | 2.7L diesel, 4-cyl, 16V, 150hp @3,200rpm, 355Nm @1,800-2,600rpm |
| Transmission | Rear-wheel drive, 6-speed manual |
| Load height | 620mm |
| Gross mass | 3,490kg |
Origin
The Sollers Atlant van is built on the platform of the Chinese JAC Sunray and is assembled in Yelabuga. It is offered in three lengths and two roof heights.