Geely, the Chinese automotive brand, reported substantial growth in Russia for 2023, with total new car sales surpassing 93,500 units. This marked a remarkable rise of about three and a half times the volume from the previous year, according to Avtostat, a market analytics firm. The Russian market showed a clear shift toward crossover models from Geely, reflecting a broader consumer preference for versatile, compact SUVs in urban and suburban driving conditions.
The standout performer among Geely models was the Coolray crossover. Sales of this popular compact crossover surged nearly threefold in 2023, reaching around 38,200 vehicles. Its appeal in Russia stemmed from a balanced blend of practicality, modern features, and value, making it a top choice for families and young professionals alike. Following closely, the Geely Monjaro emerged as a strong contender, moving about 20,400 units. This model made its market debut in Russia in March 2023, capturing consumer demand for a larger, more capable crossover with advanced tech and ample interior space.
Another key model for Geely in 2023 was the Atlas Pro crossover. Its sales grew by roughly 2.4 times compared with 2022, with 17,700 units sold over the year. Geely also expanded its lineup in mid year with a version upgrade that included a 1.5 turbo engine, introduced to the Russian market to broaden choices for buyers seeking stronger performance in a compact package.
Later in the year Geely introduced the BelGee X50, a crossover assembled in Belarus, as part of an effort to diversify the brand’s regional production and supply chain. Additionally, the Geely Emgrand sedan joined the Russian market in November, signaling a strategic push to offer a broader sedan and crossover portfolio in the perennial cold climate and varying road conditions.
Overall, the 2023 results highlighted which Geely models became especially popular in Russia, reflecting consumer preferences for subcompact and compact crossovers that balance efficiency with urban usability. The year also underscored the impact of product diversification and localization efforts, as the brand sought to strengthen its foothold in a market characterized by intense competition and shifting buyer behavior. Analysts note that the momentum in Russia may influence how Geely benchmarks its regional strategy moving forward, including potential pricing adjustments, ongoing localization, and future model introductions that align with the evolving preferences of Russian customers and adjacent markets in Europe and North Asia. These insights, provided by Avtostat, offer a valuable context for industry observers assessing Geely’s regional development and brand strength beyond the immediate domestic market. ”