The Moskvich 6 is a compact liftback automobile introduced in October 2023 by the revived Russian automaker, Moskvich. Representing a significant step in the company’s attempt to re-establish itself in the automotive market following a period of dormancy, the 6 is positioned as a modern, relatively affordable vehicle aimed at urban drivers. While the Moskvich brand has a long history in Russia dating back to the Soviet era, the current iteration represents a new beginning, utilizing a platform and components sourced from Chinese manufacturer JAC Motors. The 6 is primarily intended for the Russian domestic market, filling a gap left by the departure of several Western automotive brands.
Moskvich 6 1.5T GDI: Overview and Market Positioning
The Moskvich 6 1.5T GDI is the initial offering in the new Moskvich lineup. It’s a five-seater, five-door liftback designed to appeal to consumers seeking a practical and reasonably well-equipped vehicle. The “1.5T GDI” designation refers to the engine – a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine paired with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This powertrain combination is central to the vehicle’s performance and efficiency characteristics. The liftback body style offers a blend of sedan-like aesthetics with the added practicality of a larger rear opening for cargo access. The vehicle aims to compete with other compact cars available in the Russian market, offering a combination of features and price point designed to attract a broad customer base.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Moskvich 6 1.5T GDI is a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated HFC4GC1. This engine utilizes turbocharging and direct fuel injection to produce 174 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,800 and 3,500 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler work in tandem to enhance engine efficiency and power output. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is rated at 8.5 kg/Hp, or 117.2 Hp/tonne, indicating a respectable level of performance. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle and is coupled with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This DCT provides quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to a more engaging driving experience. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The inclusion of a Start & Stop system further enhances fuel efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
Design & Features
The Moskvich 6 adopts a contemporary liftback design, characterized by a sloping roofline and a rear hatch that provides access to a spacious cargo area. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4,770 mm (187.8 in.) in length, 1,820 mm (71.65 in.) in width, and 1,492 mm (58.74 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2,760 mm (108.66 in.). Inside, the Moskvich 6 offers seating for five passengers and boasts a trunk capacity ranging from 540 liters (19.07 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1,650 liters (58.27 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard safety features include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The vehicle utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, designed to provide a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance. The vehicle is equipped with either 17-inch or 18-inch wheel rims, and tire sizes are 215/50 R17 or 225/45 R18, respectively.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Moskvich |
| Model | 6 |
| Generation | 6 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T GDI (174 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | October, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 188.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 174 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 116.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1800-3500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1800-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HFC4GC1 |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1485 kg (3273.86 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1650 l (58.27 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4770 mm (187.8 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Height | 1492 mm (58.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| 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; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
The Moskvich 6 1.5T GDI represents a significant undertaking for the revitalized Moskvich brand. Its success will depend on its ability to deliver a compelling combination of value, reliability, and features to the Russian automotive market.
