Chinese automaker GAC plans to bring the Empow business sedan to the Russian market, according to reports from a Russian newspaper. The coverage recalls that in April there were early hints that GAC might introduce the new model in Russia, and the company has confirmed a positive decision to move forward with the plan. The announcement underscores GAC’s push to broaden its footprint in a market that prizes efficient, well-equipped mid-size sedans. The Empow is positioned to attract buyers who value a modern balance of performance, practicality, and value in a quickly evolving automotive landscape.
The sedan is slated to debut in Russia in the first quarter of 2025. It will be offered with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivering 177 horsepower, and a 2-liter engine option rated at 265 horsepower. A hybrid configuration paired with an automatic transmission is also planned, producing 238 horsepower. This range of powertrains is designed to give Russian customers a choice between spirited turbo performance and a more economical, hybrid-assisted drive, depending on their priorities and daily use.
Earlier reports noted that seven automotive brands altered their price lists during the first half of September. The financial movements reflect a seasonal adjustment cycle and ongoing shifts in input costs, supply chain dynamics, and competitive positioning within the market. Industry observers view these changes as part of a broader pattern of price recalibration seen across multiple segments and brands as autumn approaches.
At the start of autumn, the price of four GAC GS3 configurations rose by 100 thousand rubles. Additionally, three variants of the GAC GS8 increased by 100 to 150 thousand rubles. In contrast, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro saw its Family version’s price rise by 10 thousand rubles and the Style version by 15 thousand rubles. These adjustments illustrate how compact and mid-size crossovers remain under pressure from demand shifts and production costs while still offering a broad spectrum of trim levels for different budgets.
Meanwhile, the Belgee X70 experienced a price uptick of 20 thousand rubles. Two Geely models also became more expensive: the Emgrand sedan by roughly 0.8 to 1.0 percent, and the Atlas Pro crossover by about 0.6 to 0.7 percent. The Sollers brand increased the Argo 3.5T variant’s price by 80 thousand rubles. In addition, UAZ lifted the price of the Pro model across various configurations by 50 to 149 thousand rubles. These movements reflect a dynamic pricing environment where small changes can influence buyer decisions across multiple brands and vehicle categories.
In summary, Russian buyers continue to see a blend of new model introductions and price adjustments across the market. The Empow’s forthcoming Russian launch adds a modern option to the mid-size sedan segment, while the broader price trends indicate cautious budgeting by households and ongoing negotiation between manufacturers and consumers as the market navigates economic conditions and shifting demand. In 2024, Russians highlighted the best cars in terms of price and quality, a sentiment that continues to shape dealer discussions and consumer expectations as the market evolves.