The Moskvich 3 1.5T is a compact crossover SUV (CUV) introduced in December 2022 by the revived Moskvich automobile manufacturer. Representing a significant step in the brand’s re-establishment, the 3 is positioned as a modern, accessible vehicle for the Russian domestic market, filling a gap left by the departure of several Western automotive brands. While not currently sold in the United States, understanding the Moskvich 3 provides insight into the evolving automotive landscape in Eastern Europe and the adaptation of vehicle technology in a changing geopolitical climate. The vehicle aims to offer a balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and modern features within its segment.
Moskvich 3 1.5T: Overview and Market Position
The Moskvich brand has a long and storied history in the Soviet and Russian automotive industries. After a period of dormancy, the brand was revived in 2022, initially through the assembly of vehicles using components sourced from China. The Moskvich 3 1.5T is a key model in this revitalization effort, designed to appeal to families and individuals seeking a versatile and affordable vehicle. It competes with other compact CUVs in the Russian market, offering a five-seat configuration and a focus on everyday usability. The 1.5T designation refers to the turbocharged 1.5-liter gasoline engine, which is the primary powertrain option.
Engine & Performance
The Moskvich 3 1.5T is powered by a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 210 Nm (154.89 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2,000 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to improved engine efficiency and power delivery. Power per liter is rated at 100.1 hp/l. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle and is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio is 9.6 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.9 kg/Nm. The Moskvich 3 1.5T has a maximum speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The inclusion of a Start & Stop system further enhances fuel economy by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
Design & Features
The Moskvich 3 1.5T features a contemporary CUV design with a five-door body style and seating for five passengers. Its dimensions are 4410 mm (173.62 in.) in length, 1800 mm (70.87 in.) in width, and 1660 mm (65.35 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2620 mm (103.15 in.), providing a reasonable amount of interior space. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1440 kg (3174.66 lbs.), with a maximum permissible weight of 1815 kg (4001.39 lbs.). Trunk space is a practical 520 liters (18.36 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 1050 liters (37.08 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The vehicle incorporates standard safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Ride height, or ground clearance, is 170 mm (6.69 in.). The front suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut setup, while the rear suspension employs a torsion beam configuration. Steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance. The vehicle is equipped with 215/50 R17 tires mounted on 17-inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Moskvich |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | December, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | CUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 2000 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1440 kg (3174.66 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1815 kg (4001.39 lbs) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4410 mm (173.62 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Height | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17° |
| Departure angle | 23° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The Moskvich 3 1.5T represents a significant undertaking for the revived Moskvich brand. While its long-term success will depend on factors such as build quality, reliability, and market acceptance, it demonstrates the ambition to re-establish a domestic automotive presence in Russia. The vehicle’s specifications and features position it as a competitive offering within its segment, catering to the needs of a broad range of consumers.
