Despite a broad pause in new-car deliveries and a slowdown at many showrooms, fresh vehicles continue to surface in Russia, including models that were not previously represented in the market as gray imports became more prominent at a state level. Observers tracking the auto sector note this trend and explain how buyers are navigating the current landscape.
Many Russian residents are placing orders for models like the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 and LC Prado, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, and the Chevrolet Captiva from overseas supply chains.
One observer remarked that the Chevrolet Captiva offers notable value for its size and features. In its mid-range configuration, the vehicle can be priced around 2.3 million rubles, a notable point of comparison for buyers weighing cross-utility options.
During inspections, a 2021 Captiva was found listed on a popular local classified platform, with a vehicle delivered from the United Arab Emirates to the Moscow region. The SUV features a 1.5-liter engine delivering 170 horsepower, an automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. Notable comfort and safety features include a reversing camera, parking sensors, a third row of seats, leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and LED headlights.
Dealerships often avoid selling these models at official prices, since parallel imports can complicate license eligibility. Some dealers instead operate through auxiliary entities to offer vehicles as used in showrooms, while ensuring that cars are delivered with some form of warranty—an option not always available when going through gray-market channels.
Logistics for bringing cars into the country typically involve large buyer groups securing bulk purchases and coordinating with a dealer who has limited stock. In other cases, a dealer arranges a vehicle for a specific customer or transfers stock to another dealer for exchange, or posts listings on large local marketplaces to reach the free market, according to an automotive-market consultant with experience in the industry.
In June, several Avto.ru listings showcased the 2022 Mitsubishi Xpander with a range of configurations and relatively low odometer readings. The Xpander employs a 1.5-liter engine with 105 horsepower and, with automatic transmission, seats up to seven. The model is also sold by an official Geely/UAZ dealer in Samara, illustrating that parallel-market activity intersects with official channels in some regions.
For a new Xpander, a typical asking price on the market sits around 2.5 million rubles, while pre-owned stock in the same segment may command 300,000 to 500,000 rubles more, depending on condition and configuration.
There are ongoing notices about the release of the new-generation Kia Sportage in Russia, with official sales yet to commence due to market disruptions. Vendors present both brand-new units and cars that have accumulated several thousand kilometers from Korea.
Most Sportage units are concentrated in the Far East, with prices starting around 2.4 million rubles, while older models from central Russia can push past 4 million rubles. Notably, prices in the Far East align closely with early pre-crisis manufacturer estimates, where Kia had anticipated Sportage pricing above 2.33 million rubles for dealers early in the year.
how to import cars
Industry leaders say parallel imports currently account for a portion of the market, especially in smaller batches. Budget models can arrive from neighbouring countries within the framework of the Customs Union, whereas premium models are often sourced from the UAE.
Experts suggest that parallel imports can ease short-term market tension, with intermediaries coordinating deliveries. Given the supply chains in Asia and the CIS, the final cost for buyers and dealers may rise as a consequence of more complex logistics.
It is important to note that vehicles imported under gray channels typically do not carry the manufacturer’s warranty. Dealers may offer warranty as a separate add-on or present customers with an option to purchase without warranty service.
Importing any car into Russia is possible, though challenging. Some international dealers and auctions may not accept payments from Russia, while others have access to foreign-currency transfers. Additionally, each customs post enforces its own rules, which has contributed to fluctuating demand for second-hand imports in recent months.
The strongest demand for imports is seen in premium-segment models aged around three to five years, with deliveries often coming from the UAE and Turkey. A key risk cited by market observers is the potential for money to run out before a car is secured, underscoring the volatility of gray-market logistics.
Industry figures indicate that there is little visibility on formal import plans via official channels at the moment. Analysts highlight that the landscape remains in flux as stakeholders explore new routes and align with regulatory changes.
On the official side, several Chinese brands are expected to reenter the market, with at least five new crossovers anticipated in the coming months. For example, a pre-order for the Haval Dargo has already been circulated for Moscow, and the Geely Monjaro is slated to appear in August in brand showrooms.
Another Chinese brand, Chery, is introducing a new distribution concept in Russia, with the C5 crossover, previously known as the Chery Omoda 5, and the Tiggo 4 Pro positioned for sale. A notable new offering for 2022 is the Changan Uni-K flagship crossover, which has earned its Vehicle Type Approval and is expected to be ready for purchase soon at local dealerships as summer closes.