Russia's 2026 car prices shift as recycling fees reshape the market

Russia’s car market is experiencing significant changes in 2025–2026. A new recycling fee system came into effect on 1 December 2025, altering prices across different vehicle types. The revised recycling fee now depends on a car’s age, engine size, and power. Vehicles with engines over 160 horsepower face higher costs, pushing prices up for many models. The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has risen by about 11.5% since 2025 because of the fee.

Newer cars from 2025 and 2026 no longer qualify for preferential import terms. This makes the standard customs duty rate a better option than importing older 'eligible' models from 2022 or 2023. The Toyota Camry, at 173 hp, saw its price climb from 3.9 million rubles in 2025 to 4.5 million in 2026. The Toyota Harrier has also gone up by 12–13% on average.

Not all prices are rising. The Mazda CX-5, with 155 hp, has dropped by 15–16% compared to last year. This fall follows an increased supply of locally assembled Chinese vehicles. Meanwhile, demand for cars under 160 hp in the preferential segment has kept prices high. The new fee system has reshaped pricing in Russia’s automotive market. Some models have become more expensive, while others have fallen in value. These shifts reflect changing import rules and supply dynamics.