Chinese carmaker JAC has begun accepting orders for the JS3 crossover in Russia. Local buyers can expect a compact SUV that blends practical urban usability with a factory-backed warranty path that mirrors the brand’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the Russian market.
In Russia, the JS3 will be offered with a 1.6-liter engine delivering 109 horsepower and front-wheel drive. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual gearbox or a CVT, giving customers a choice between a traditional, engaged driving feel and smoother, continuous acceleration for city and highway use. The base configuration features halogen headlights paired with LED fog lights, electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors, a fabric-trimmed interior, and two airbags, delivering essential safety and comfort for everyday commuting and longer trips alike.
The higher-end, luxury variant adds faux leather upholstery to the cabin, complements a CVT-equipped drivetrain, and includes a climate control system, a rearview camera, and a multimedia system with a touchscreen and six speakers. These enhancements are aimed at improving occupant comfort and in-car entertainment for buyers seeking a more premium experience within a compact SUV package.
From a footprint perspective, the JAC JS3 measures 4345 mm in overall length with a wheelbase of 2560 mm. The front suspension uses McPherson struts, while the rear employs a torsion beam setup. This configuration supports a balanced ride quality with reasonable interior space, making the JS3 a practical option for both daily driving and longer journeys where passenger comfort and cargo versatility matter.
Historically, it has been noted that preliminary production activity for the DFSK Fengon iX5 crossovers occurred at the Avtotor plant in Kaliningrad, marking a notable milestone in the regional automotive manufacturing landscape. While the DFSK activity is distinct from the JAC operations, both brands reflect Russia’s ongoing interest in expanding SUV choices sourced from Chinese automakers and integrated into local assembly and supply chains. In this broader context, the JAC JS3’s entry represents another step in the cross-border strategy to broaden vehicle options for Russian customers, leveraging parent company synergies and regional manufacturing capabilities to meet demand across urban, suburban, and rural environments.
Citations: JAC press materials and regional manufacturing reports indicate the JS3’s Russian launch plans and the Kaliningrad plant’s role in related assembly projects for regional models. These sources provide background on how Chinese automakers approach market entry, vehicle specification choices, and local production partnerships in Russia and neighboring markets.