Into year’s end, the Moskvich 3 is available through eleven dealerships with prices starting from 1.97 million rubles. The model is equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivering roughly 150 horsepower, paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This configuration places the car in the compact crossover segment where urban practicality and everyday reliability matter most.
In a recent test drive, the editor-in-chief of Za Rulem, who personally piloted the Moskvich 3, shared several impressions. The following observations summarize the car’s strengths and drawbacks from a seasoned automotive journalist’s perspective.
Strengths:
- more spirited on the road than rivals like the Chery Tiggo 4 or Haval Jolion
- the CVT transmission offers a smooth and well-calibrated response
- the manual gearbox delivers an engaging driving experience
- slightly more rear passenger space compared with some competitors
- flexible fuel options, including AI-92 octane
- real-world fuel economy around 6.6 L/100 km with CVT
- halogen headlights are easier and cheaper to repair
- Electronic Stability Program can be deactivated when needed
- well-laid-out, user-friendly interior systems
- fully localized multimedia supports Russian and Cyrillic inputs smoothly
Drawbacks:
- only front-wheel drive
- rear suspension travel is on the firmer side
- official ground clearance is listed at 170 mm, yet real clearance sits around 155 mm
- the steering column height is adjustable, but the adjustment range may not suit every driver
- no heated seats, heated steering wheel, or heated windshield
- sound insulation around the wheel arches could be stronger
- there is currently no cheaper 1.6-liter option with lower power output
- folding rear seats are not included in the base configuration
- only five exterior color options are offered
Editorial Perspective
Maxim Kadakov, editor-in-chief of the magazine Behind the Wheel, provided insights after his drive.
He noted that the Moskvich 3 feels like a solid competitor within its class. It responds well to steering input, remains composed in wintry slush, and delivers a balanced package of positives and negatives, much like peers in the category. He also highlighted a critical factor: price. While the car is market-competitive at the moment, many buyers had anticipated a more affordable, mass-market price range between roughly 700 thousand and 1.5 million rubles.
Specifically, the 1.97 million rubles asking price for a manual or a variant with CVT (the exact CVT price was not disclosed) implies that the Moscow-made model may not secure a clear price advantage over nearby Chinese rivals such as the JAC JS4. With consumer purchasing power under pressure, many potential buyers weigh older Japanese imports or Chinese-made alternatives when considering value for money. The editor observes that the Moskvich 3 is appealing, yet not the vehicle many motorists hoped for in a budget-friendly package.
Who is likely to buy the Moskvich 3? Private buyers are part of the market, but primary demand appears to come from state needs, car-sharing fleets, and taxi operators. Some middle managers are also choosing the Moskvich option, provided it comes without the subpar alternative in the same lineup. Overall, it is encouraging that the production facility remains active and that strategic plans aim to preserve and grow the plant into a financially viable operation for the long term.
Photo: Depositphotos
Participation and Engagement
Readers are invited to participate in the Behind the Wheel Grand Prix by voting for the year’s best car novelties. As a token of appreciation for completing the survey, three small prizes will be drawn among all participants who finish before the stated deadline. The current call to action encourages readers to complete the 2023 Driving Grand Prix questionnaire and have their say.
Note: This article presents an editorial evaluation and is intended to offer a balanced view of the Moskvich 3 within its segment. Prospective buyers should consider local market conditions, incentives, and regional availability when assessing value. All content reflects practical testing experiences and industry commentary, with citations from the Behind the Wheel team where applicable.