Iranian Auto Show Features Familiar Models for Israeli Consumers

The 7th Tehran International Auto Show, which opened on September 13th, is showcasing a variety of new car models, some of which are well-known to Israeli consumers. Despite Iran being under severe Western sanctions, the exhibition features 80 new models from 35 manufacturers, including local ones. The Iranian automotive market is currently experiencing significant production of cars without demand, suggesting high inflation, as reliable sales data is unavailable until the end of the Iranian calendar year in March.

Among the displayed vehicles are models familiar to Israelis, such as the Luxzedo L5, which is essentially the Chery Arrizo 5 (Jac J5) exported from China to Iran as part of a deal where Chery supplies cars in exchange for metals, helping China bypass sanctions. The Iranian version uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 147 horsepower.

The Bahman Fidelity Prestige, a top-tier SUV from Iranian manufacturer Bahman, is also featured. Previously producing Isuzu vehicles, Bahman now assembles Chinese cars, with the Fidelity Prestige being a rebadged Chery Tiggo 7 Pro. It is equipped with a 197 horsepower turbocharged gasoline engine and is available in five or seven-seat configurations.

Another notable exhibit is the Sapir R7, an upscale SUV produced by Iran Khodro, which is a rebranded Hongqi HS3 from China. The flagship version boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a plug-in hybrid system, delivering a combined 292 horsepower.

The Tigard G700, an Iranian-assembled Chinese vehicle (Chery Tiggo 8 Pro), is also presented. This plug-in hybrid SUV features a 2.0-liter gasoline engine and two electric motors, producing approximately 900 horsepower. Its price has not yet been released, indicating it may be beyond the reach of most Iranians.