Recent industry observations from Socialbites.ca show Russian automotive retailers listing new Chinese Roewe iMAX8 minivans, expanding the family-focused lineup available in the market. Advertisements for these models appear in classified sections with prices roughly between 3.7 million and 5.6 million rubles, signaling a pricing tier that positions the iMAX8 as a premium choice within the MPV segment. The development indicates a growing willingness in post-Soviet markets to embrace Chinese brands, with buyers weighing price against features, space, and modern infotainment capabilities.
The Roewe brand comes from SAIC Motor, a major Chinese automaker, and the iMAX8 family has been built for domestic sales since 2020. In the Russian market, buyers are presented with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivering around 234 horsepower and 360 Newton-meters of torque. This powertrain is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, offering a practical setup for both city driving and highway cruising. The vehicle stretches about 5016 millimeters in length with a 3000 millimeter wheelbase, and its interior is laid out to seat up to seven occupants, making it well suited for larger families or shuttle duties.
Standard equipment for the minivan marries comfort, convenience, and contemporary technology. Inside, buyers can expect leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and second-row captain’s chairs for enhanced passenger separation and comfort. A digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch multimedia display anchor the cockpit, while seats include massage functions and ventilation for added long-haul comfort. A climate-controlled rear console houses a compact refrigerator, which can be relocated between seating rows to keep beverages at the desired temperature. At this price point, buyers also evaluate advanced driver assistance systems and connectivity options that enable seamless integration with smartphones and home networks.
Earlier coverage highlighted that Russian dealers are also introducing the Roewe Marvel R, a fully electric crossover created to attract environmentally conscious buyers seeking performance and modern design in a single package. This shift underscores Roewe’s broader market strategy to diversify its footprint in the region, offering both traditional internal combustion powertrains and electric options. Consumers weighing these models often consider charging infrastructure, total cost of ownership, and the availability of aftersales support, factors that influence purchase decisions in markets that are still expanding their EV ecosystems. [Citation: Socialbites.ca]”