The restyled Evolute i-Space (preview on our website) remains the most affordable plug-in hybrid on the Russian market, although it is still not popular. Even with government support, which reduces the price to 2.5 million rubles, only a few hundred buyers chose this model in 2024. After the restyling, the crossover has become noticeably more technically interesting, but externally it still remains as neutral as possible. It has a simple body without design frills, a flat front end without a radiator grille, and a minimum of decorative elements, which makes the car easily mistaken for a regular electric vehicle.
In terms of dimensions, the Evolute i-Space plays in the class of large mid-size crossovers. A length of almost 4.8 meters, a solid wheelbase, and the option to choose between five- and seven-seater configurations make it a competitor to the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max and Geely EX5 EM-i. So far, only front-wheel drive is available, but the Motorinvest plant in Lipetsk has already confirmed the appearance of a 4x4 version in 2026, which could significantly expand the model's audience.
After the update, the interior has completely shifted towards total digitalization. In front of the driver is a digital instrument panel, in the center 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 trim materials turned out to be unexpectedly pleasant: soft leatherette on the front panel and neat assembly create the feeling of a car a class above what you would 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 back, and lack lumbar support adjustment. The seating position is high, and fatigue quickly appears in the legs and back on long journeys. Heated and ventilated seats partially compensate for the situation, but do not completely solve the problem. The picture is complemented by periodic electronic glitches: the instrument panel may lose some information, the multimedia system may freeze, and the surround view cameras may temporarily fail.
There is plenty of space in the second row. Even tall passengers have enough leg and headroom, the floor is flat, and there is no central tunnel. The equipment is also decent: armrest, ventilation deflectors, lighting, USB port. However, the seat heating is only activated through the multimedia system, and the seats themselves are as hard and flat as in the front. But the trunk in the five-seater version is one of the main trump cards of the model: almost 1000 liters of volume and more than 2 cubic meters with the seats folded down.
Technically, the Evolute i-Space is a hybrid where the gasoline engine mainly works as a generator. After the restyling, the car received a new 1.5-liter engine with a capacity of 90 hp and an increased battery. The electric motor on the front axle develops up to 218 hp, which provides confident dynamics when fully charged. The range on electric drive reaches 165 km, and the total range according to the WLTP cycle is declared at 1250 km, although in real conditions the figures are noticeably more modest.
In motion, the i-Space offers several operating modes of the hybrid system, including intelligent and fuel priority. In "smart" mode, the crossover is able to stay within 6-7 liters per 100 km, and with active battery charging on the highway, the consumption increases to 8-9 liters. A full charge from alternating current takes about four hours, as the car does not support fast charging. With a high level of charge, the dynamics are brisk, but after the battery drops below 20%, the car becomes noticeably sluggish.
In terms of chassis settings, the Evolute is focused on comfort, although it has not been possible to achieve balance everywhere. The suspension confidently handles large bumps, but small defects and sharp edges of potholes are felt harshly. Rocking appears on the waves, which drags on longer than expected. The steering is devoid of feedback, and the sport mode only enhances the feeling of artificiality. At the same time, the crossover is stable and predictable on the straight, which goes well with its calm character.
The Evolute i-Space is sold in one configuration with rich equipment, including a panoramic roof, surround view cameras, acoustic glass, online services, driver assistants and a full set of heated seats. Taking into account subsidies and a price of 2.5 million rubles, it remains the most affordable entry into the world of plug-in hybrids in Russia, offering a large interior, an impressive trunk and real fuel economy.
