The new car market in Russia has undergone radical changes, and brands that were once among the top sellers are facing serious challenges. Brand Škoda, which is part of the Volkswagen Group, has officially suspended official deliveries and production at the plant in Kaluga. This event divided the history of the Czech automaker's presence in the country into “before” and “after,” creating a unique situation for owners and potential buyers.
Now the situation is characterized by duality: on the one hand, the flow of new cars from the official dealer channel has dried up, on the other, the demand for used cars and parallel imports has reached unprecedented heights. The consumer must clearly understand that official support in the previous format has been discontinued, but the service and spare parts market infrastructure continues to adapt to new realities.
Current brand status and official position
After the company left the market, the very philosophy of interaction with clients changed. Official dealers who previously sold models Kodiaq, Superb and Karoq, repurposed or began offering cars through “gray” import schemes. This means that now buying a car requires the client to participate in the process of delivery and customs clearance, which significantly increases the final cost.
Financial instruments such as car loans and state programs, are no longer available for new copies of the brand directly from the manufacturer. Banks continue to issue loans for used cars, but conditions have become stricter and rates are higher. It is important to take into account that the manufacturer's warranty for cars imported through parallel imports is often not valid or requires a complex recognition procedure.
Price dynamics in the primary and secondary markets
Car pricing Škoda Now it depends on many factors: year of manufacture, configuration, mileage and method of import. If earlier Octavia in the basic configuration it cost about 2 million rubles, but now the price for a similar new copy brought from Europe or Kyrgyzstan can exceed 3.5 million rubles.
There is a paradoxical situation in the secondary market. Demand for cars with mileage up to 5 years remained consistently high, which led to rising prices. Owners planning to sell their car can count on liquidity models, since the shortage of new offers spurs interest in the used segment.
- 📈 Rising prices in the secondary market ranged from 30% to 50% compared to 2021.
- 📉 Liquidity crossovers Kodiaq and Karoq remains the highest in the class.
- 💸 Speculative growth prices for new cars through intermediaries makes the purchase unprofitable for many.
- Price
- Availability of spare parts
- Comfort
- Brand image
Availability of spare parts and service
The most pressing issue for owners remains the provision of technical maintenance. The situation with spare parts is heterogeneous: consumables and simple components (filters, pads) are available in abundance, since they are interchangeable with Volkswagen and Audi models. However, complex units, body parts and electronic components may be in short supply or unreasonably expensive.
Delivery logistics have changed: instead of direct deliveries from a warehouse in Germany, parts now go through Turkey, the UAE or China, which increases the waiting period. For some owners, the wait for a body part can take several months. Independent service stations take on the role of main service centers, offering repair services, often using refurbished or Chinese equivalents.
☑️ Checking spare parts before purchasing
⚠️ Attention: When ordering body parts through intermediaries, be sure to request a photo report of the actual condition of the part before shipment, since the risk of receiving a used or damaged item in transit is extremely high.
Experts note that electronics repair requires professional equipment, which has also become more difficult to find. Diagnostic software may be blocked or require updates that are not available in the Russian Federation.
Diagnostic problems
Many dealer VAS-PC and ODIS scanners now require a license, which is not sold in Russia. Independent repairmen use emulators or hacked versions, which can lead to errors in the operation of car security systems.
Model range: What cars are popular?
A steady demand for certain models has formed in Russia. Crossovers remain top sellers on the secondary market due to their cross-country ability and versatility. Model Kodiaq It is considered one of the best representatives of its class, offering a spacious interior and reliable engines.
Sedans and liftbacks such as Octavia and Superb, are losing popularity due to high maintenance costs and competition with Chinese brands. However Octavia still holds its position thanks to its huge owner base and the availability of consumables.
| Model | Popularity (used) | Difficulty of repair | Average price (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Octavia A7/A8 | High | Low | 1.8 - 3.2 million rubles |
| Kodiaq | Very high | Average | 2.5 - 4.5 million rubles |
| Superb | Average | High | 2.0 - 3.8 million rubles |
| Karoq | High | Average | 1.9 - 2.9 million rubles |
| Rapid | Average | Low | 1.2 - 1.8 million rubles |
Parallel Import: Risks and Opportunities
Parallel import has become the only legal way to get a new car Škoda without an official dealer. This mechanism allows you to import cars from countries that have not imposed sanctions, such as Kazakhstan, China or Türkiye. However, the procedure comes with risks.
It is necessary to take into account that cars may not comply with Russian environmental standards (Euro-5) or have differences in configuration. In addition, the lack of an official warranty means that any breakdowns in the first years of operation will place a heavy financial burden on the owner.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure that the car has gone through the procedure for obtaining SBCTS and EPTS before concluding the transaction, otherwise you will not be able to register it with the traffic police.
- 🌍 Supplier countries: Kazakhstan, Belarus, Türkiye, UAE, China.
- 📑 Documentation: A full package of customs documents and certificates of conformity is required.
- ⚙️ Adaptation: Sometimes it is necessary to re-flash electronics to Russian standards.
Before purchasing a car through parallel import, check the VIN code in the database of insurance companies and the traffic police for hidden accidents or liens.
The future of Škoda in Russia and prospects
Many car enthusiasts are wondering whether the brand will return to Russia. There have been no official statements about the resumption of production or direct deliveries yet. The situation depends on the geopolitical situation and decisions of the Volkswagen Group management.
In the near future, the market will be filled with Chinese analogues, which will occupy the niche vacated by the departure of European brands. Competition from Haval, Geely and Chery makes a comeback Škoda in its previous form is unlikely in the coming years.
The Škoda brand in Russia has transformed from a mass product into a niche brand for connoisseurs, available mainly through a complex parallel import mechanism and the secondary market.
Practical advice for owners
If you already own a car, it is important to organize maintenance correctly. Don't be afraid to contact independent specialists who have experience working with VAG models. They can often offer solutions that are cheaper and faster than going to official centers.
Owners should purchase consumables and popular spare parts in advance to avoid downtime in the event of a breakdown. It is also recommended to keep all receipts and repair documents, as this increases the liquidity of the car upon subsequent sale.
Questions and answers
Will new Škodas be officially sold in Russia in 2026?
No, official deliveries and dealer sales of new cars have been stopped. Only options available through parallel import or used cars.
Is it difficult to find spare parts for the Škoda Octavia now?
Consumables and simple spare parts are widely available. Complex components and body parts may be in short supply, and waiting times are increasing.
Is the warranty valid for cars imported through parallel import?
The manufacturer's official warranty does not apply. Some companies offer breakdown insurance, but this is not the same as a factory warranty.
Is it possible to register a car imported from Kazakhstan?
Yes, if you have SBCTS and EPTS, as well as pay a recycling fee in accordance with Russian legislation.
Nuances of recycling
Recycling fee rates for individuals and legal entities vary. For cars older than 3 years, the rate is significantly higher, which may make import economically unfeasible.
⚠️ Attention: Be sure to check the customs value of the car during customs clearance, since underestimating this figure can lead to large fines and confiscation of the vehicle.