Reports from the Russian auto sector indicate that AvtoVAZ intends to raise prices across the entire Lada lineup starting August 20, a development echoed by the Mash Telegram channel. The channel notes that many AvtoVAZ dealers across Russia currently face tight inventories, with only a handful of vehicles left in each Lada series. The proposed price adjustment is being framed as a step to stabilize supply, though the exact figures remain undisclosed.
In practice, the situation on the ground is already difficult for buyers. The Mash report suggests that prospective buyers often encounter empty showrooms or long waits, with some dealers advising customers to place orders, leave a deposit, and wait months without a confirmed price. The sense of scarcity is further amplified by the recent pullback in available models from certain Lada series, making immediate purchases challenging for many customers.
Industry observers point to price increases as a potential lever for restoring parts availability and bringing more models into dealer networks by September or October. The logic offered is that higher prices could help suppliers manage component shortages and encourage faster replenishment of inventory, though no firm timetable is provided and consumer patience is tested by the current distribution bottlenecks.
AvtoVAZ itself has issued a cautious clarification in response to Mash’s reporting. The automaker asserted that there are no plans to raise prices on the base versions of Lada cars. Instead, only selective adjustments in the pricing of higher equipment levels are on the table. This nuance suggests a strategy aimed at differentiating model tiers while attempting to preserve affordability for entry-level buyers.
Meanwhile, industry chatter also mentions a separate logistics update: in the near term, a batch of several dozen Volkswagen Lavida sedans is slated for import or delivery to Russia within coming weeks. This development appears to be part of broader efforts to diversify the available options for Russian customers, alongside ongoing discussions about domestic production volumes and supply chain resilience across brands.