Renault Losing Ground in Russia: Return in Question

The French automaker has lost ground to both Chinese and AvtoVAZ in the market. Once a popular brand in Russia, Renault could permanently lose its presence in the Russian market. According to automotive expert Egor Vasilyev in an interview with the Prime agency, the chances of the French automaker returning to Russia are extremely slim, with the already negative brand image exacerbating the situation. Russia used to be the second most important market for Renault after France, but interest waned almost completely after the company’s departure in 2022. Only 13 new Renault cars were registered in the country in the first nine months of 2025.