In September 2024, Russia absorbed about 104,200 new cars, a figure tracked by Avtostat and echoed by industry observers. The import volume signals a market where buyers increasingly turn to parallel imports to access newer models and favorable pricing. The season’s numbers sketch a picture of a market leaning on cross-border routes to keep shelves stocked and options open for consumers across the country.
Among the September inflow, roughly four-fifths came from China, with 7.7 percent originating in Kyrgyzstan, 6.4 percent from Belarus and 4.2 percent from Kazakhstan. These shares reflect a heavy reliance on non-traditional distribution channels that help preserve variety and affordability for buyers in a wide geographic spread.
The most imported models to the Russian Federation in September were Geely Monjaro, Geely Atlas, Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and Haval M6, illustrating a clear tilt toward Chinese-made SUVs and crossovers that appeal to practicality and value seekers.
In recent years, Russia has repeatedly seen vehicles arrive through parallel import channels, offering buyers the chance to purchase vehicles at prices that sometimes align with or even undercut comparable models offered in the Chinese market. This pattern highlights a persistent price-sensitive dynamic in the consumer auto sector.
One of the popular parallel-import options is the Suzuki Baleno, a third-generation hatchback that has been in production since 2022. In 2025, its listed price hovered around 2.5 million rubles, making it a cost-conscious choice for compact-car enthusiasts.
An Uzbek-made alternative is the Chevrolet Onix sedan, available for roughly 1.7–2.2 million rubles depending on configuration and supply circumstances, presenting another affordable option within the parallel-import framework.
The Hyundai Santa Fe, now in its fifth generation, remains a favored choice. Official sales occur in Korea and Kazakhstan, and samples are imported into Russia with prices starting at about 5.7 million rubles, appealing to buyers seeking a larger, modern crossover.
The Samsung QM6, also known by Renault Koleos in some markets, received its third generation in June 2024. The design lineage mirrors the Geely Monjaro, and in Russia prices begin near 3 million rubles, offering a mid-size option with contemporary styling and features.
Earlier discussions also touched on a methane-powered transition within Russia’s automotive landscape, signaling broader shifts toward alternative propulsion as part of the market’s evolution.