Tank Debuts and Chinese Models Targeting Russia in 2023

The tank will arrive in 2023

Great Wall Motor, the Chinese automotive maker behind the Tank sub-brand, announced its entry into the Russian market in 2023. Russia would become the second overseas destination for the Tank lineup after Saudi Arabia, with a focus on crossovers and SUVs built in China.

In the initial phase, the Tank 300 and Tank 500 are set to reach Russia. Both are frame-bodied vehicles known for strong off-road capability. Preliminary details indicate two gasoline engines will be offered: a 2.0-liter unit rated at 220 horsepower and a V6 delivering 299 horsepower. The Tank 300 lineup includes a robust all-wheel-drive system featuring a solid rear axle, an independent front suspension, a reduction gear, and locked cross-axle differentials.

The larger Tank 500 shares size and capability comparable to premium models from Japanese brands. Notably, it stands just 7 cm shorter than the latest Toyota Land Cruiser 300 when spare tire on the tailgate is excluded. Its equipment list includes LED matrix headlights, four-zone climate control, and a panoramic roof. Inside, wood trim and an analog clock evoke a sense of refined styling seen in upper-tier brands.

New sedan and youth crossovers from Chery

Chat about the Arrizo 8 sedan’s arrival in Russia pointed to a debut in February or March 2023, with pricing aligned to the Tiggo 4 Pro crossover. The Tiggo 4 Pro is currently offered around the two million ruble mark.

The Arrizo 8 measures 4780 mm in length and competes in the D-segment against rivals such as the Toyota Camry and Kia K5. The base Arrizo 8 features fabric upholstery and 10 airbags, while higher trims add stylish blue or green interior accents. Standard options include a head-up display, dual instrument and media displays, and a panoramic roof. Power-adjustment controls for the driver seat are mounted on the doors, a design cue reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz interiors.

Rumors also suggested that Jetour, a brand established by Chery about four years ago, would enter the Russian market the following year. Jetour’s lineup targets younger buyers, with the updated X70 crossover taking the spotlight in China since October. The X70 Plus adds a two-liter engine producing 254 hp. In China, the Jetour X70 Plus starts around 89.9 thousand yuan (roughly 764 thousand rubles) depending on configuration.

Skywell to expand product range in February

Skywell, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, announced a Russian representative office would open by the end of September, with plans to broaden its model lineup in February. The ET5 crossover is expected to be priced around 4.5 to 5 million rubles, and a variant called HT-I will be introduced. In China, Skywell markets the HT-I as a hybrid under the Skyworth name.

The HT-I is offered to Chinese buyers at a price starting near 147 thousand yuan, which is over 1.2 million rubles. It measures longer than typical mid-size C-class crossovers at 4720 mm and sits in the same general size class as SUVs like the SsangYong Rexton. Inside, a two-story instrument panel features a pronounced lower shelf with wooden trim and a large tablet-style display for the media system, complemented by Huawei smart-home elements. The hybrid powertrain uses a 1.5-liter turbo engine with electric propulsion options that enable driving on electricity alone for short distances, depending on battery capacity. Local details for the Russian version of the HT-I remain to be announced.

GAC GS8 second generation – in the future

The flagship GAC crossover entered a new generation about a year ago, with domestic sales beginning in December 2021. The brand has signaled intentions to bring the second-generation GS8 to Russia in the future. The newer model grows in size, approaching five meters in length, and sits in the same size category as Hyundai’s Palisade.

The seven-seat SUV is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo engine delivering 248 hp and an 8-speed automatic transmission from the Japanese supplier Aisin. All-wheel drive comes standard. Modern features include diode headlights, with adaptive headlights available on higher trims. A traffic-sign recognition system and parking assist are among the available options for the GS8.

Changan Uni-V

Early October sightings on the Avilon dealer site suggested a recall notice for the Changan Uni-V, listing a Russian price and a 1.5-liter engine producing 188 hp in a model expected to arrive soon. The publication Chinese Cars reported the catalog showed 14 units priced around 2.8 million rubles, though official confirmation had not yet been issued.

In the same class as the Skoda Octavia, the Uni-V features an active rear spoiler that enhances downforce. Top speeds exceed 200 km/h. Under the hood sits a 1.5 turbo engine delivering 188 hp, paired with a 7-speed gearbox.

Geely Monjaro keeps trying

Late September brought fresh photographs of the Geely Monjaro with Moscow license plates, suggesting ongoing efforts to enter the Russian market. Geely had previously announced plans for a 2021 launch under the KX11 index, and the necessary vehicle type approval has already been granted for sale in Russia.

The Monjaro showcases a 238-horsepower 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired with an 8-speed Aisin automatic and all-wheel drive. The engine is tuned for AI-95 gasoline. Requests for comment from Geely Russia regarding upcoming premieres remained unanswered.