Russian Used-Car Prices Rise Significantly Through 2023

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In late October 2023, the average asking price for a used car in Russia stood at 1.52 million rubles, marking ongoing growth in the secondary market. The rise follows a clear upward trajectory documented by Avtostat, the analytical agency known for tracking price movements in the pre-owned segment across the country. The data reflects offers currently listed in the market rather than completed sales, providing a snapshot of asking prices rather than realized volumes.

Looking back, the trend becomes more evident when comparing year-over-year levels. In January 2023, the average listed price was about 1.32 million rubles, and by October 2022 it had reached roughly 1.22 million rubles. These figures illustrate a sustained climb in the price of used vehicles as the year progressed, with each milestone contributing to the broader narrative of a tightening market for second-hand autos.

Between January and October 2023 alone, the average listed price climbed by approximately 203 thousand rubles, which equates to a 15.4 percent rise in that nine-month window. Extending the lens from October 2022 to October 2023 reveals a more pronounced gain of 24.4 percent, underscoring a substantial shift in the valuation of non-new cars during this period. This broader surge aligns with general market dynamics observed in several consumer sectors where supply constraints and demand strength converge to push prices higher in the used-car segment.

One important caveat in interpreting these numbers is the method of computation. The Avtostat figures are derived from ongoing monitoring of offers in the secondary market and do not account for the volume of sales. As a result, the data reflects listing prices rather than realized transaction prices or the actual pace of turnover in the market. This distinction matters for buyers and sellers who may experience different price pressures depending on the balance of supply and demand at any given time.

Across the market, certain models have drawn particular attention during the year. For example, a notable increase in prices was observed in popular crossover and SUV segments, driven by consumer preference shifts and fluctuating supply chains. While the overall average provides a broad view, individual cars can deviate significantly based on condition, mileage, trim level, and regional availability. In short, buyers should consider both the headline figures and the specific attributes of each offer when evaluating value in the used-car market.

Market observers also point to broader economic forces influencing pricing in the secondary sector. Inflationary pressures, currency dynamics, and changes in import policies can all feed into the cost of used vehicles, especially when newer models have limited supply or higher initial price points. For buyers, this often translates into a window where negotiating power and timing can affect the ultimate purchase price. For sellers, understanding seasonality and market sentiment helps tailor listing strategies to maximize exposure and potential returns.

Overall, the trend in Russia through 2023 indicates a meaningful uplift in the listed prices of used cars, with the nine-month period showing a solid double-digit percentage increase and the year-over-year span revealing a broader acceleration. Whether the market continues on this path will depend on a mix of macroeconomic factors, consumer demand, and the evolving landscape of vehicle availability. The Avtostat monitoring remains a key source for those tracking how the secondary market evolves over time, offering a transparent view of price behavior in the non-new car segment.

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