Kaiyi has introduced two compact crossovers intended for production at the Avtotor plant in Kaliningrad, Russia. The unveiled X3 and X3 Pro were presented during a formal event in Moscow, signaling Kaiyi’s push into a growing segment of the regional market. These models are positioned to appeal to buyers who are familiar with compact SUVs in a similar size class to popular models already on sale in the region.
Both Kaiyi crossovers share a comparable footprint with established small SUVs, measuring approximately 4000 mm in length and featuring a wheelbase around 2632 mm. This makes them practical choices for urban driving and everyday use, offering a balance between interior space and maneuverability. The identical exterior length supports a familiar seating layout while allowing Kaiyi to tailor interior details to different trims and options for varying customer preferences in North American markets too.
The Kaiyi X3 is equipped with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine delivering about 116 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission. In contrast, the X3 Pro employs a 1.5-liter turbocharged unit producing roughly 147 horsepower, also matched to a CVT. The choice of engines gives buyers a clear option between efficiency and performance without complicating the lineup, a strategy that helps Kaiyi offer a value-oriented entry model alongside a more capable variant for those who want extra power for highway merging and overtaking on busier routes common in North American cities.
Design cues set the two models apart at a glance. The X3 features a front end with a more integrated look, while the X3 Pro flaunts a split radiator grille that adds a sportier, more distinctive character. Inside the cabin, the X3 presents an integrated digital instrument cluster and multimedia displays on a single, continuous screen, whereas the X3 Pro adopts a different arrangement that underscores its higher-end positioning. These differences reflect Kaiyi’s strategy of offering a practical daily driver with an accessible, tech-forward interior, and a stronger, slightly more premium variant for enthusiasts who value distinctive styling and enhanced features.
Looking ahead, Kaiyi announced plans to refresh its broader lineup in 2023 with the introduction of the X7 Kunlun, a mid-size crossover that is expected to expand the brand’s range in the region. The Kunlun is described as having a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine capable of producing around 249 horsepower, underscoring Kaiyi’s intent to provide more powerful options within the family of vehicles available to customers in Russia, and potentially, export markets such as Canada and the United States where demand for midsize crossovers remains robust. The new model strategy aligns with shifting consumer preferences toward more capable turbocharged powertrains and modern infotainment ecosystems across global markets.
Pricing details have been indicated to start from about 1.8 million rubles for Kaiyi crossovers, with new models expected to reach the market in mid-April following the completion of certification events. As regulations and import conditions evolve, potential buyers in North America might watch closely for any updates related to localization, warranty coverage, and availability in regional distribution networks. In the meantime, Kaiyi’s Russian rollout illustrates a broader push to broaden its footprint in the global compact crossover space, highlighting the brand’s efforts to deliver value-oriented options without sacrificing the modern conveniences that appeal to contemporary buyers.