In the Russian market for pre-owned convertibles, sales showed a noticeable uptick, rising by 20 percent compared with the previous year. The Ford Mustang emerged as the most sought-after model, averaging around 3.2 million rubles in price. This information comes from a recent study conducted by Avito Auto and shared with socialbites.ca, highlighting an evolving preference among buyers for open-air driving experiences in the used car segment.
Market observers noted that the thirst for convertibles began to surge before the summer season, with a brisk climb in demand observed from mid-March through May of 2024. The period saw a 57 percent increase in activity compared to the preceding months, underscoring a growing interest in stylish, wind-in-the-hair vehicles as temperatures rose and road trips loomed on the horizon. The year-on-year improvement of 20 percent reinforces the notion that convertibles were gaining traction as a distinctive option within the broader used-car market.
Following the Mustang, two Mercedes-Benz models dominated the popularity chart in Russia. The SL class was priced at about 3.3 million rubles on average, while the SLK class carried an average price near 1.6 million rubles. These figures reflect the demand for luxury open-top models that combine performance with premium branding, appealing to buyers seeking a high-status vehicle that still offers the joy of open-air motoring in a used-car context.
Rounding out the top positions were the BMW Z4 and the two-door BMW 3 Series. The Z4 commanded an average price of roughly 4.6 million rubles, signaling strong appreciation for its sporty dynamics and compact coupe-like profile among convertible enthusiasts. The BMW 3 Series two-door variant hovered around 2 million rubles, illustrating a balance between driving pleasure and practical ownership costs within the convertible segment.
Earlier market observations also noted that the average price of Chinese cars in Russia had crossed the 3 million ruble threshold, a trend that points to the expanding appeal of value-oriented but well-equipped convertibles from Chinese manufacturers. As buyers weigh budget against feature sets, the segment continues to attract a wider array of models offering a mix of performance, efficiency, and prestige. Analysts suggest that these shifts reflect broader consumer confidence in the used-car market and a growing willingness to invest in lifestyle-oriented vehicles, even when shopping for pre-owned options. The data underscores how demand for convertibles in Russia is shaped by brand allure, perceived quality, and the ongoing evolution of pricing in the secondary market, rather than by a single factor alone. This paints a picture of a dynamic segment that analysts will be watching closely in the coming quarters as supply, exchange-rate movements, and consumer preferences continue to interact in meaningful ways.