30/07/2008 03:54. NIZHNY NOVGOROD, Russia — GAZ Group, one of Russia's leading commercial vehicle makers, announced on Monday that it has launched production of its new Volga Siber, a version of the Chrysler Sebring adapted for the local market.

The Volga Siber, a joint effort with Chrysler, is to be produced in GAZ's sprawling car plant in Nizhny Novgorod, 250 miles northeast of Moscow.

The Siber is equipped with a stiffer suspension and increased ground clearance to withstand Russia's bumpy roads and harsh winter conditions. Prime Minister Vladimir Putin test-drove a Siber late last week and, according to Interfax, said, "The suspension is a bit tough, but the car can accelerate."

The new model is also expected to withstand stiff sales competition in the booming small-sedan segment. Leonid Dolgov,... // Edmunds.com/Inside Line