The Moscow market in 2023 saw a clear preference for Chinese crossover models, with Geely Coolray leading the way
In 2023, the Geely Coolray crossover topped the charts among new passenger cars in Moscow, a finding reported by the analytics agency Avtostat. The data show the Coolray selling 12.4 thousand units in the capital, earning it the number one spot in the annual ranking. This outcome reflects a strong year for Chinese brands in Moscow and signals a shift in consumer demand patterns that morning reports and market analysts have been observing across major Russian cities.
Close on the heels of Geely Coolray was the Haval Jolion, another popular Chinese crossover. Its sales figure reached 8.7 thousand units in 2023, placing it second in the Moscow market. The third position went to the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, which moved 6.1 thousand units, rounding out a top three dominated by Chinese models that year. The overall picture shows a significant tilt toward crossovers from Chinese manufacturers amid a larger urban adoption across the capital’s car buyers.
Across Moscow, a total of 152 thousand new passenger cars were sold in 2023. This level of demand represents a robust 56 percent rise compared with the previous year, underscoring the continuing rebound in car sales and the growing popularity of crossover styles among urban drivers. The shifting market dynamics have implications for how dealerships structure inventories, service networks, and financing options for new-car buyers in the region.
Industry commentary from automotive experts at the time highlighted a broader trend in the market. They observed that Chinese brands had begun to outperform European counterparts in several service and post-sale parameters. The assessment noted that following the withdrawal of European brands from certain segments, the related dealer infrastructure in Russia shifted rapidly to Chinese manufacturers at a much lower cost, enabling quicker onboarding of networks and service centers for these brands. This transition contributed to higher visibility and accessibility of Chinese vehicles for local consumers, reinforcing their growing market share and appeal in Moscow and beyond.
Earlier in the year, reports indicated that the supply chain experienced disruptions as five Chinese car models faced halted deliveries to Russia. This disruption coincided with a broader period of adjustment within the automotive market as brands navigated geopolitical and logistical challenges while maintaining a steady presence in the local market. The situation underscored the resiliency of the Chinese auto segment in Moscow, with buyers continuing to show strong interest despite intermittent supply constraints and evolving import conditions.
Looking at the larger picture, the 2023 data from Avtostat illustrate not only a top seller list but also a shifting consumer mindset toward value, practicality, and modern design found in crossover lineups. The Geely Coolray, alongside the Jolion and Tiggo 4 Pro, became symbols of a market recalibration where price-to-feature balance resonated with urban buyers. This shift has implications for automakers, dealers, and service providers as they adapt to the evolving needs of customers who favor compact crossovers with contemporary technology, efficient fuel performance, and accessible after-sales support. The Moscow market’s trajectory in 2023 thus points toward sustained growth for crossover offerings from Chinese brands, with the potential to influence buying patterns across Russia and neighboring regions in the coming years. Avtostat continues to provide the data backbone for stakeholders evaluating market health, consumer sentiment, and competitive dynamics in the capital and beyond. This ongoing evaluation helps industry players align product portfolios with the expectations of Moscow’s car buyers and to respond effectively to changes in supply and service infrastructure as the market evolves. Citations Avtostat provided the core sales figures and ranking insights that shaped these observations.