February looks set to be another quiet month for new passenger car prices in Russia, with analysts from ROAD indicating that prices may hold steady or rise only marginally. The news comes via 1prime.ru, which cites ROAD’s press service as the source for the outlook amid softer consumer activity that has persisted for several months. In short, buyers appear to be taking a breather, and manufacturers and dealers are adjusting expectations accordingly. (ROAD, cited by 1prime.ru)
According to ROAD, the February price path for new cars is unlikely to show increases and may see only tiny changes if any. The market has gradually moved past the earlier supply crunch, allowing dealers to reintroduce traditional discounts, particularly on models from the previous year. This pricing environment reflects a careful calibration by dealers as demand remains subdued while inventories improve. (ROAD press service, cited by 1prime.ru)
The association also notes that second-hand car prices are unlikely to shift significantly in February, reinforcing a broader trend of stability across both new and used segments. The steady pricing picture aligns with evolving consumer behavior and a cautious financing landscape that has influenced showroom traffic in recent months. (ROAD, via 1prime.ru)
There is a separate trend at work: known AvtoVAZ dealerships have accumulated a two-month supply of Lada cars. This buildup suggests that buyers are increasingly turning to alternative options, notably Chinese crossovers, rather than domestic sedans and station wagons. The shift mirrors a broader market preference for newer technology and favorable equipment offered by recent Chinese models. (ROAD, 1prime.ru)
When buyers compare choices, many highlight comfort and automatic transmissions as decisive factors. For example, some Chinese models impress with smooth automatic gearboxes and modern cabin features, whereas the flagship Lada Vesta from AvtoVAZ is still offered with a manual transmission in some configurations. This discrepancy helps explain why buyers might opt for non-domestic offerings that deliver a more convenient driving experience. (ROAD, 1prime.ru)