Life is busy in the auto market as dealers report steady foot traffic and buyers returning to showrooms, according to an industry observer who visited several Lada dealerships to gauge the current sales climate.
At an initial dealership, which requested anonymity, the scene was surprisingly robust. The showroom floor featured a full lineup of new cars ready for test drives, including the rare Vesta Sport in its distinctive ring style. The lot was crowded, and sales staff held a constant, ready stance as customers moved through the space.
Officials at the dealership noted that while there are still vehicles available, supply shortages are constraining the overall selection. The factory’s component supply has been inconsistent, leading to narrower choices for buyers and delayed restocking of certain models.
Among the reported shortages were the Vesta models with CVT transmissions, and the planned redesign slated for May has been postponed due to current events. Availability of X-ray models was also limited, but it was unclear whether production would resume as scheduled.
When asked about the actual purchase price of a Grant beyond the listed price, the journalist learned that a sedan could cost around 800,000 rubles. Although a dealer can offer several optional cargo features, the sticker price has climbed significantly. The Vesta starts near 1.1 million rubles, while the Largus begins around 1.3 million rubles. Inventory remains substantial for these names. As prices rise, buyers are taking time to adjust to the new market reality.
Dealers anticipate the Grant first, possibly without ABS or airbags. The off-the-book baseline price for such a configuration is estimated to start near 600,000 rubles, with more precise figures pending future confirmation.
The dealer manager noted that demand remains solid, especially since loan terms have become more accessible after a recent rate cut. This shift has driven a noticeable uptick in loan transactions, several times higher than the February-to-April period.
Even though summer typically isn’t the peak season for car buying, some buyers have re-emerged, showing renewed confidence in their finances. They also recognize that major brands have exited certain markets, creating uncertainty about the maintenance and availability of parts for those models. This context has sharpened interest in domestically produced cars. The manager of the dealership group summed up the sentiment: Lada vehicles are here to stay, with a lasting presence in the market.