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Moskvich 8: a mid-sized crossover from Moscow, its platform and engine
Moskvich 8 — a mid-sized crossover assembled in Moscow by the revived Moskvich factory. We explain the technology it's based on, the engine it has, and what you need to know if you come across one in the used market.
Moskvich 8 in brief
Moskvich 8 is a five-door crossover built on the platform of the Chinese company JAC's X8 model (formerly known as the Sehol X8). This isn't old-school Moskvich: the brand has been revived by Moscow's authorities, and the cars are assembled in the former Renault factory in Moscow.
This model is larger and more expensive than the smaller Moskvich 3 — it's a family crossover with a spacious interior and a larger screen. It's not officially sold in Lithuania, so it's rarely found in the used market, usually from private imports.
Platform and related models
In China, the X8 went on sale in 2020 as a five, six, or seven-seater crossover. In 2022, a slightly longer and more luxurious version, the X8 Plus, was introduced, and in 2023, the Sehol brand was dropped, with models rebranded under JAC.
Therefore, searching for parts and technical information often relies on the JAC X8 name. Differences between the Moskvich version and the Chinese original may be minor, but always check the exact specification in the car's documents.
Engine and transmission
In China, the X8 is sold with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, with power quoted at around 184 hp (135 kW). The Moskvich 8 is advertised with a similarly sized turbo engine, but it's best to verify the exact power figures from the manufacturer's documents.
The Chinese version offered a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. For the Moskvich 8, check the gearbox type and number of gears in the specific car's documents, as we don't have confirmed specifications for all versions.
What to check when buying a Moskvich 8
First, find out how the car was imported and whether it can be legally registered in Lithuania: you'll need proper manufacturer documents and compliance with EU regulations. Ask about the warranty and parts supply — there's no official representative in Lithuania.
Inspect the body, wheels, and suspension, and check if the multimedia screen, cameras, and assist systems work. Since the model is new, there's not much long-term reliability data, so scrutinise the history and service records carefully.
Trim levels
The trim names for this model depend on the market and year, so here we describe just the general equipment level.
Pilnos įrangos versija
From 2025Often seen with a larger screen, cameras, and convenience features.
- A larger multimedia screen
- Often — surround-view cameras and parking sensors
- Often — lightweight alloy wheels
The Moskvich 8 and related models
| Moskvich 8 | Moskvich 3 | JAC X8 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body | A mid-sized crossover | Compact crossover | A mid-sized crossover |
| Who it's for | For families and road trips | For city driving and daily use | For those who need the Chinese version |
| Base model | JAC X8 | JAC (Sehol) X4 | Original Chinese model |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | € | €€ |
The Moskvich 8 is worth considering only if the car's origin is clear and there's a chance of getting parts. If parts availability is crucial, it's often more sensible to look at models officially sold in Lithuania.
Pros
- Spacious interior and family-friendly body
- Turbocharged petrol engine with ample power
- Modern interior with a large screen
- The technology is based on the widely-used JAC model
Cons
- There is no official sales and service in Lithuania
- Parts supply and registration can be tricky
- The model is new, with little long-term reliability data
Frequently asked questions
Is the Moskvich 8 the same as the JAC X8?
Technically, yes: the Moskvich 8 is based on the JAC X8 (formerly Sehol X8) and assembled in Moscow. Differences may lie in the exterior, interior, and software.
Can the Moskvich 8 be bought in Lithuania?
Officially, it is not sold here. If such a car is offered, check its origin, documents, and the possibility of registering it according to EU rules.
What engine does the Moskvich 8 have?
It features a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The X8 sold in China with this engine has around 184 hp, so check the Moskvich version's specifics in the car's documents.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
