The Legend Reborn

Rugged enough for rural roads and ready for weekend adventures,  this budget-friendly SUV is designed to do more with less

Review Features

Brand History

The design originated after
the Korean War, when the eastern bloc saw a need for small off-road vehicles comparable to the American Jeep,
to supplement the overly-large and
-heavy GAZ-69s then in service.

Run through the Luaz history >

The SUV, as It Was Meant to Be

The LuAZ Hoomac concept reimagines the legendary LuAZ-696 SUV as a modern, affordable truck built for both outdoor adventure and rural utility. At its core is the minimalist DriveCore UI — a functional yet straightforward interface operated by the rugged MotionTwist control.

Off-Road Capability

Whether you're crawling through mud, climbing steep trails, or hauling heavy loads off-road, it ensures all wheels stay engaged and power is distributed where it matters.

36°

Approach

26°

Breakover

28°

Departure

36°

Rollover

40°

Ascent

As simple as possible, but not simpler

One dial to rule’em all

Perfect budget SUV for families and explorers alike. Perfect budget SUV for fa

Learn about the UX behind the control >

Need more screens?

Just attach your own devices to smoothly enlarge the entertainment real estate

Study about the UX behind the multimedia >

Roomier than it looks

Cargo

Towing

Raised

210 L

Folded

320 L

1300 kg

maximum braked towing

Tow-Ready, 
Straight Off the Line.

1300 kg

maximum braked towing

Tow-Ready, 
Straight Off the Line.

From Battlefield Repair to Iconic Off-Roaders:

The Legacy of LuAZ

Born in the aftermath of World War II, the Lutsk Automobile Plant—better known as LuAZ—evolved from a humble military repair workshop into one of the eastern bloc’s most distinctive automotive manufacturers. Known for its rugged, compact off-road vehicles like the legendary LuAZ-969, the factory carved out a niche in rural mobility and military utility. This page traces the journey of LuAZ through decades of innovation, adaptation, and resilience—from Soviet beginnings to post-independence Ukraine.

1951

The history of the Lutsk Automobile Plant began in February 1951. It was then that the country's leadership decided to organize a new plant in Lutsk. At that time, the city already had auto repair shops that serviced trucks and tractors.

1955

An automobile workshop was built, where they initially began repairing GAZ-51 and GAZ-93 trucks, as well as producing components for these models of vehicles.

1959

The Lutsk Auto Repair Plant was renamed the Lutsk Machine-Building Plant: the enterprise produced its first own vehicle – the LuMZ-825 trailer-shop.

1965

LuAZ begins independent vehicle production.
First original model: the LuAZ-967 — a lightweight amphibious vehicle designed for the military. It was used for evacuating wounded soldiers, equipment transport, etc. It had a fiberglass body, small wheels, and a simple design. Low profile made it ideal for front-line service.

1971

First mass-produced civilian off-road vehicle LuAZ-969. Simple, rugged 4x4 design meant for rural and agricultural use. It was known for its front-wheel drive layout, which was rare at the time for off-roaders. Used the MeMZ engine (often a 887 cc or 1.2L engine), produced in Melitopol.

1977

Introduction of the LuAZ-969 - a modernized version of the 969 with better suspension, improved design, and minor comfort upgrades. It was extremely popular among rural populations and geologists. Sometimes nicknamed the “Ukrainian goat” for its quirky looks and climbing ability.

1990s: Transition

After Ukraine’s independence in 1991, LuAZ struggled with economic instability, competition, and outdated designs.
Tried several collaborations and rebrandings, but with limited success. In the mid-1990s, the plant became part of Bogdan Corporation, a larger Ukrainian auto group. LuAZ plant shifted focus from original vehicle development to assembling foreign cars under license, including Hyundai and Kia models. Vehicle production under the LuAZ name effectively ceased.