Russians Snub Domestic Luxury: Lada Aura Sales Barely Crawl Off the Line

In the December chapter of Russia’s automotive sales saga, the leading role is played by the Lada Aura, whose sales figures paint a—let’s say—modestly disinterested picture. AvtoVAZ managed to sell a grand total of 190 units of this sedan in just one month. Yes, only 190, despite the fact that the car made its grand debut in showrooms back in November. And no, there were no long lines of eager customers clamoring to get their hands on it. Let’s face it—perhaps it has something to do with the fact that the Aura’s price tag rivals that of a well-maintained foreign used car or a perfectly decent all-wheel-drive Chinese SUV.

But fret not—there are always a few grateful buyers. In this case, the Lada Aura found its niche among Russian government agencies. For instance, 17 units were proudly added to the Russian State Duma’s vehicle fleet. Word has it that a few Auras also made their way into the garages managed by the Presidential Administration and the Ministry of Finance, though the exact numbers remain shrouded in mystery. It seems that, at the very least, the sedan has become a hit among bureaucrats.

According to statistics, AvtoVAZ has significantly outperformed its 2023 sales numbers in 2024. Of course, this dazzling success can largely be attributed to the “low base effect,” as the previous year was, let’s say, a little turbulent for both production and sales.

Lada Aura production hums along at a pace of 76 cars per day, with two variants available: the Aura Premier, starting at a modest ₽2,599,000 (about €25,500), and the Aura Status, priced at a mere ₽2,799,000 (roughly €26,500). Both models feature a 1.8-liter engine, 122 horsepower, and a CVT gearbox, promising "smooth and comfortable driving." Whether these attributes are enough to justify the price tag, however, is another question entirely.

It seems that for the average Russian consumer, luxury has its limits—especially when it comes with a Lada badge.