UzAuto Motors is moving toward a major shift in its lineup by phasing out the Chevrolet Lacetti sedan, also known in some markets as the Daewoo Gentra, a model that has been produced in Uzbekistan since 2003. This step, reported by autostrada.uz, signals a strategic realignment for the plant as it pivots toward newer, more competitive offerings for local buyers and regional markets.
According to the publication, the Lacetti assembly line in Uzbekistan is slated to wind down production at the start of 2024. The factory’s capacity will be redirected to boost output of the Chevrolet Cobalt and Onix sedans, models that aim to meet evolving customer preferences and stricter emission standards. In addition to reallocating capacity, observers expect the introduction of a fresh budget model from the American brand, though its exact name remains under wraps. The move underscores a broader trend in the automotive sector toward models that balance affordability with modern technology and improved fuel efficiency.
With the Lacetti nearing the end of its production life, the automaker plans to deliver the final batches to customers before the line is fully shut down. For many local buyers, this moment marks a transition away from a familiar, albeit aging, compact sedan toward newer Chevrolet products that promise updated styling, improved safety features, and more contemporary infotainment options. The Lacetti’s tenure in the Uzbek market has created a recognizable option for midsize-sedan buyers seeking value, reliability, and straightforward performance in everyday driving situations.
In Uzbekistan, Lacetti sedans have been offered at prices starting from 169.1 thousand soums (approximately 1.25 million rubles), configured with a 1.5-liter engine delivering around 106 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination has made the Lacetti a practical choice for cost-conscious families and first-time car owners who prioritize ease of maintenance and predictable running costs. As the production line transitions, prospective buyers are likely to compare these figures with the updated specifications and pricing of the Cobalt, Onix, and the anticipated budget model, hoping to balance upfront purchase price with long-term value, fuel efficiency, and resale prospects.
The broader market context includes continuing shifts in consumer demand, with compact and subcompact segments gaining attention for their efficiency and modern features. Automakers in the region are responding by expanding the availability of compact sedans that offer improved aerodynamics, enhanced safety packages, and more connected digital ecosystems. The end of Lacetti production opens space for these newer models to capture fresh demand while allowing the Uzbekistan plant to optimize its production mix, reduce inventories of aging components, and invest in updated manufacturing processes. As this transition unfolds, drivers who previously relied on the Lacetti may evaluate alternatives within the Chevrolet family or explore competing brands that deliver similar value propositions in terms of price, warranty coverage, and service networks. [Autostrada.uz]”