An analysis by Avtoteka researchers paints a detailed portrait of the very first car owned by Russian drivers, based on a nationwide survey of motorists who purchased a vehicle within the last five years. The study reveals patterns across regions, ages, and budget choices, offering a nuanced picture of beginner car ownership in modern Russia.
Among responses, 46% of first-time buyers selected a sedan, while 20% opted for a hatchback or liftback. Crossover and station wagon choices each accounted for 9% of the sample. A strong preference emerged for buying a used car among new drivers, with 66% believing that a previously owned vehicle can effectively support the learning curve established in driving schools.
In contrast, 34% of participants reported purchasing a brand-new car as their initial vehicle. The data also show an age-related split: older drivers tended to favor new cars for beginners, whereas younger cohorts leaned more toward used options. Specifically, among respondents aged 65 and older, 62% chose a new car as their first vehicle, compared with 28% in the 25-34 age group. This divergence is often explained by differing expectations: younger drivers anticipate upgrading to newer models as experience grows, while older drivers emphasize long-term reliability and value.
What price range do beginners typically start with?
Pricing reveals a wide spectrum. About 30% of new buyers started with vehicles priced up to 200 thousand rubles, while 42% chose models in the 200 thousand to 700 thousand ruble bracket. Another 19% owned vehicles costing between 700 thousand and 1.5 million rubles. The remaining 9% gravitated toward cars costing more than 1.5 million rubles.
What criteria guide the first-car decision?
Reliability and budget head the list. These two factors attracted 44% and 41% of votes, respectively. Economy and low fuel consumption mattered to 37% of respondents, underscoring the desire for efficient running costs. Safety was a priority for 29%, and about one-fifth highlighted spaciousness as an important attribute. Design and color captured 16% of attention, while power and performance were cited by 13% of respondents. Cross-country ability and off-road usability registered at 12%.
Other practical considerations included maneuverability, ease of parking, and brand prestige, though these were each mentioned by fewer than 10% of respondents. The survey also pointed to brand familiarity and service networks as practical factors that influence decisions during the early years of owning a vehicle.
For the record, the five most popular first-car brands among the respondents were Lada, Toyota, Kia, Hyundai, and Nissan, reflecting a balance between affordability, reputation, and the availability of service options. The survey reached 10,000 participants from diverse regions who bought their first car between 2017 and 2022, providing a broad snapshot of early ownership trends across the country [citation: Avtoteka survey data].