Russia’s New SP7 Minivan: A Domestic Challenger to the Alphard
Russia’s automotive market is expanding its domestic lineup with the arrival of the Sollers SP7. Local production is fully localized at the company’s Elabuga plant, and pre-orders have already begun across several regions. Dealers have published a price range that signals a bold attempt to lure buyers away from established premium models by offering substantial value for money.
Pricing Snapshot Across Regions
Initial announcements show a price ladder starting at 4.69 million rubles for the most affordable configuration, with regional variations noted by dealers. For example, the vehicle is listed at 4.99 million rubles in Novosibirsk and 5.15 million rubles in Vladimir. These figures place the SP7 in a competitive position within Russia’s mid-to-upper mid-size MPV segment, especially when juxtaposed with imports in the same class.
Power, Platform, and the Two SP7 Flavors
All SP7 variants share a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 237 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Buyers will choose between two distinct configurations: a seven-seat, full-size minivan designed for family utility, and a four-seat business coupe that emphasizes comfort and acoustics with an upgraded soundproofing package, dynamic ambient lighting, and an advanced multimedia system. The partition-mounted screen and the ability to control interior functions via a dedicated tablet add a touch of modernity to the cabin experience.
Comfort and Convenience as Base-Model Highlights
Even the base SP7 comes well equipped by today’s standards. Standard features include six airbags, a digital instrument cluster, climate control, and keyless entry. Convenience is enhanced by power doors and a power-operated tailgate. Front-row occupants enjoy heated seats, and the SP7’s flexible seating arrangement allows the rear lounge to be transformed into a flat sleeping area when needed, catering to long trips or overnight journeys.
Safety Tech that Matters
Safety and driver assistance form a core part of the SP7’s package. Among the systems offered are a 360-degree camera setup, adaptive cruise control, driver fatigue monitoring, and forward collision warning. These features align with market expectations for family vehicles and business shuttles alike, helping to position the SP7 as a practical alternative to pricier import models in everyday use.
Market Context: A Russian Counterweight to Imports
Industry observers note that the SP7’s pricing and powertrain clearly aim to attract buyers who might otherwise consider high-end minivans such as the Alphard. By localizing production and offering generous standard equipment in the base package, Sollers is banking on a compelling total cost of ownership and service network advantages to win orders in a competitive segment.
Launch Timing and Broader Sollers Moves
Sales of the SP7 are planned to begin in the autumn of 2025, as the company continues to expand its portfolio. Earlier this year, Sollers also introduced the ST9 pickup, signaling a broader push to broaden product depth in key segments. The SP7’s rollout fits within this strategy of leveraging domestic manufacturing capabilities to offer competitive options for Russian buyers.
In summary, the SP7 presents a well-rounded package for a market hungry for value without sacrificing essential modern features. With full local production in Yelabuga, a range of configurations, and a competitive price ladder, the SP7 could be a notable challenger to imported Japanese models in Russia’s growing minivan space.
