The veteran publication Za Rulem, long recognized as Russia’s leading automotive authority, features a thorough examination of the Moskvich 3 by expert reviewer Nikita Gudkov. His assessment dives into the model’s origins, engineering, and the practical implications for owners and enthusiasts alike.
A notable finding is how the Moskvich 3’s supply chain ties back to KAMAZ, a key partner of the Moscow plant. Documentation reveals that the Moskvich badge sometimes disguises an origin tied to KAMAZ, underscoring the multi-firm collaboration behind the crossover OTTS project.
In fact, the car is identified, in official records, as a KAMAZ-2135. This industry index is embedded in the vehicle’s OEM data, reflecting KAMAZ’s role as a principal technical partner for Moskvich. As a result, the car sold carries KAMAZ VIN prefixes, with the first letters typically reading XTC, which may come as a surprise to some readers.
Alongside these branding details, the Moskvich 3 is known by several internal codes. The factory designation appears as DA21, while the electric variant carries the code DA22. In the Chinese market from which the vehicle is sourced, the model is marketed as JAC Jiayue X4 or JAC JS4. Among these, the Moskvich 3 retains its distinct identity in many discussions and marketing materials.
Power figures also reflect collaboration with KAMAZ. In the Chinese specification, the engine delivers 136 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque, paired with a 1.5-liter turbo unit. For the Russian market, power has been adjusted to 150 horsepower, with a recommendation for 92 octane gasoline. The transmission options include a manual gearbox for a spirited drive and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smoother acceleration. Future plans mention a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine option delivering about 108 horsepower to broaden the lineup.
Further insights into the Moskvich 3, including its maintenance and repair practicality, are explored in the January issue of Za Rulem magazine. The publication is available through various marketplaces for readers seeking a deeper understanding of the vehicle’s design and service considerations.
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The discussion above reflects the synthesis of information from a comprehensive article about the Moskvich 3, presented in a manner that clarifies branding, technical partnerships, and market variations across regions. The analysis emphasizes how collaboration between Moskvich and KAMAZ influences engine tuning, equipment choices, and overall vehicle positioning in different markets.