The facelifted Evolute i-Space (preview on our website) remains the most affordable plug-in hybrid on the Russian market, although it still is not popular. Even taking state support into account, which lowers the price to 2.5 million rubles, only a few hundred buyers chose the model in 2024. After the facelift, the crossover became noticeably more interesting technically, but outwardly it still remains as neutral as possible. It has a simple body without designer frills, a flat front end without a radiator grille, and a minimum of decorative elements, which makes the car easy to mistake for a regular electric vehicle.
In terms of dimensions, the Evolute i-Space competes in the class of large midsize crossovers. A length of almost 4.8 meters, a solid wheelbase, and a choice between five- and seven-seat layouts make it a competitor to the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max and Geely EX5 EM-i. For now, only front-wheel drive is available, but the Motorinvest plant in Lipetsk has already confirmed the arrival of a 4x4 version in 2026, which could significantly broaden the model's audience.
After the update, the interior has moved completely toward total digitalization. In front of the driver is a digital instrument panel, in the center there is a 15.6-inch multimedia system screen, and there are only two physical buttons. All functions, including lights and climate control, are tied to the touch interface, which takes some getting used to. At the same time, the finishing materials turned out to be unexpectedly pleasant: soft faux leather on the front panel and neat assembly create the feeling of a car of a higher class than you expect from the most affordable hybrid on the market.
The main ergonomic complaints are related to the seats. The front seats have a short cushion, a flat backrest, and lack lumbar support adjustment. The seating position ends up being high, and fatigue in the legs and back appears quickly on a long trip. Heating and ventilation partially compensate for the situation, but do not solve the problem completely. The picture is completed by periodic electronic glitches: the instrument panel may lose some information, the multimedia system may freeze, and the surround-view cameras may temporarily stop working.
There is an abundance of space in the second row. Even tall passengers have enough legroom and headroom, the floor is flat, and there is no central tunnel. The equipment is decent as well: an armrest, ventilation vents, lighting, and a USB port. However, the seat heating can only be turned on through the multimedia system, and the seats themselves are just as firm and flat as those in front. On the other hand, the trunk in the five-seat version is one of the model's main trump cards: almost 1,000 liters of volume and more than 2 cubic meters with the seats folded.
Technically, the Evolute i-Space is a hybrid in which the gasoline engine works mainly as a generator. After the facelift, the car received a new 1.5-liter engine producing 90 hp and a larger battery. The electric motor on the front axle develops up to 218 hp, which provides confident dynamics at a full charge. The electric-only range reaches 165 km, and the total WLTP range is claimed to be at 1,250 km, although in real conditions the figures are noticeably more modest.
On the move, the i-Space offers several hybrid-system operating modes, including intelligent and fuel-priority. In the "smart" mode, the crossover is capable of staying within 6–7 liters per 100 km, while with active battery charging on the highway consumption rises to 8–9 liters. A full AC charge takes about four hours, as the car does not support fast charging. With a high charge level, the dynamics are lively, but after the battery drops below 20%, the car becomes noticeably sluggish.
In terms of chassis tuning, the Evolute is focused on comfort, although balance was not achieved everywhere. The suspension handles large bumps confidently, but small defects and sharp edges of potholes are felt harshly. On undulations, body motion appears and lasts longer than expected. The steering lacks feedback, and the sport mode only reinforces the feeling of artificiality. At the same time, the crossover is stable and predictable in a straight line, which goes well with its calm character.
The Evolute i-Space is sold in a single trim level with rich equipment, including a panoramic roof, surround-view cameras, acoustic glass, online services, driver assistants, and a full set of heated features. Taking subsidies and the price of 2.5 million rubles into account, it remains the most affordable entry into the world of plug-in hybrids in Russia, offering a spacious cabin, an impressive trunk, and real fuel savings.