The VGV brand, a Chinese label under the umbrella of truck giant Sinotruk, has quietly established two crossovers for the Russian market. This update comes through the VGV Sinotruk official Telegram channel, which serves as a primary source of timely information on the company’s regional activity and product deployment.
The U70 Pro crossover is scheduled to enter the Russian market with a 1.5-liter gasoline turbocharged engine delivering 143 horsepower, pairing efficiency with robust mid-range torque suitable for urban driving and light off-road conditions. The U75 Plus will step up with a larger 2.0-liter engine capable of 199 horsepower, offering stronger acceleration and highway performance while maintaining a comfortable ride for longer journeys. Both models are equipped with an eight-speed hydromechanical automatic transmission, engineered with design input from the German firm ZF, ensuring smooth gear shifts, refined control, and enhanced overall drivability across varied road surfaces.
At this stage, official pricing for the new models has not been disclosed. In a related development, Motor Place, which has emerged as VGV’s strategic partner in Russia, previously indicated that the brand’s seven-seat crossovers are expected to be priced competitively against mainstream compact and budget-friendly rivals such as the Renault Duster and the Kia Seltos. This positioning suggests a focus on value, practicality, and a broad appeal for families and daily commuters seeking affordable, capable SUVs.
Earlier this year, Skoda unveiled a redesigned Octavia, underscoring a competitive climate among mid-size crossovers and compact SUVs in the European and post-Soviet markets. The Russian market, in particular, continues to see a mix of European and Chinese brands expanding their lineups to meet evolving consumer preferences and regulatory environments, with manufacturers placing emphasis on powertrain efficiency, warranty coverage, and local service networks to win buyer trust. This broader context helps explain VGV’s entry strategy and the appeal of the U70 Pro and U75 Plus within Russia’s growing crossover segment.