One in three Russians views a car with up to 60 thousand kilometers as still new, and an equal share sees cars under five years old as new. This conclusion comes from Avtoteka, an online car history and condition service, which conducted a survey among six thousand drivers (as reported on socialbites.ca).
The survey results show that 36% of respondents consider a car with mileage up to 60 thousand kilometers to be new, while 64% regard a car with mileage up to 40 thousand kilometers as new. Just 6% of Russians are willing to label a car from a dealership as new with zero mileage. In terms of service life, 77% categorize three-year-old cars as new, and 35% consider cars up to five years old still new.
The majority of respondents (63%) believe mileage is the key indicator of a car’s novelty. The second most important criterion, cited by every second person, is the absence of accidents and major repairs; 31% identified the initial condition of the body and interior as a significant factor.
When buying a used car, 84% of Russians place importance on preserving the original exterior appearance. Forty-seven percent emphasize the importance of the interior being in pristine condition. The third most cited factor is the absence of wear or misalignment and the presence of original tires and wheels, chosen by 24% of respondents, indicating that genuine components are valued by a sizable portion of buyers.
Among vehicles with mileage up to 80 thousand kilometers, about one third of Russians would consider a car with an odometer showing 40-60 thousand kilometers. Experts note that the second most popular category is cars with up to 40 thousand kilometers (31%), followed by those with 60-80 thousand kilometers (23%).
Previously the Avtostat agency listed the most popular cars bearing the word “auto” in Russia, reflecting ongoing consumer interest in vehicle history and condition as key decision factors for buyers.