The Lada Granta car (its factory designation is VAZ-2190) was conceived from the very beginning as an inexpensive and high-quality vehicle that would meet modern safety requirements, but at the same time remain affordable for the buyer. The model was developed on the basis of the first generation of Lada Kalina cars. But so many changes were made to the basic design that the Lada Granta can be considered an original development. Before you purchase this car and independently evaluate all its advantages and disadvantages, you should familiarize yourself with the test drive data and an analysis of the main technical characteristics of the model.
General impressions of the Lada Granta test drive
Every Russian motorist has heard about the Lada Granta. For many, the release of this model caused some skepticism, which is explained by past mistakes of the AvtoVAZ concern. Nevertheless, the overall impression from the Lada Granta test drive is the most favorable . Regarding the model released in 2022, we can say that its creators managed to improve the quality of the main components and eliminate some of the shortcomings that consumers had previously reported. The operation of the gearbox has been improved.
The new Lada Granta features an increased level of sound insulation compared to previous versions. Moreover, this affected the insulation not only on the floor of the cabin, but also in the trunk and on the engine panel. Together all this makes a good impression. And if we add to this the minor changes that affected the interior design and made driving more comfortable, we can say that the new Granta can compete with more expensive car brands. Perhaps, at first glance, these changes are not so noticeable, but once you spend some time behind the wheel, you begin to appreciate them.
Prospects
These are the main configurations of the Lada Granta, but the VAZ concern did not stop there.
Observing the sales of Granta, the manufacturers came to the conclusion that the experiment was a success, and it is slowly displacing even Kalina from the market. Many companies purchase Granta in large quantities to operate as a taxi and for the official needs of their employees. Therefore, the “Lada Granta” 2013, which can be equipped in the “Standard”, “Norma” and “Lux” format, has acquired a hatchback modification. This is already a completely modern car, which is systematically taking its place on Russian roads. Young drivers, and especially women, fell in love with the Granta for its elegance and style.
Car appearance
The body of the Lada Granta has changed little in appearance. As before, there are several body styles. This is a sedan, a sport, and also another interesting modification of the Lada Grant - Liftback . The latter option is considered universal, while the sports model will certainly be of interest to those who often go out of town to the highway. The front part of the car has undergone the most significant changes - an updated radiator grille and bumper have been used here. The sedan's lights, bumper and even trunk lid have also changed slightly in shape.
The new body of the Lada Granta boasts a spacious trunk. Its volume depends on the type of model. For a sedan this is 520 liters. But in the Liftback it is a compartment with a volume of 440 liters, and if the driver folds down the rear seat backs, the trunk volume can be increased to 760 liters. In this case, its cover will open together with the rear window. Thanks to the design features, loading things into the trunk will be convenient and practical.
The company has not yet released the promised crossover. As planned, the car will be very different from all previous versions.
As for the design of the Granta, the manufacturer provides such body colors as white, orange-brown, purple, light and dark shades of blue, blue-green, gray, including those with a brownish tint.
Repeats after elders
Granta Drive Active can be easily distinguished by its low stance - the ground clearance is reduced by 18 mm, which is why it does not look as bulky as a regular sedan. And also details in the Vesta Sport style - sports bumpers with thin red stripes, door sills, flat chrome pipe, wheels with a special pattern.
The set of expressive means used by Steve Mattin is modest, but the “drive-active” car has been transformed. It would be hard to call this Lada a summer resident’s dream. The x-shaped front end and the bulges on the trunk lid “played” differently - all this appeared on the Grant during the restyling.
In blue, like an old-school sweatshirt, Drive Active looks especially advantageous, but this is not some kind of exclusive shade. The car is painted in the same colors as regular sedans, except for orange, which is signature for the Cross versions. Among them there is also a white one - it will definitely be popular in the south of Russia.
Salon - Interior - Ergonomics
The main principle that the designers implemented in the Lada Grant in relation to the interior of the cabin is minimalism, according to the principle “the simpler the better.” This approach helps both reduce costs and pay more attention to sound insulation, although the sound of a running engine can still be heard inside the car. The interior of the Lada Granta is quite spacious, so the driver does not feel cramped. The ceiling inside is quite high. This is important for tall drivers. And in general the car has become more ergonomic.
The interior of the cabin is well thought out. It is finished with high-quality plastic, and compared to previous models, it should be noted that it looks better. In addition, the casing is now made at a higher level, and its parts do not creak during operation. Inconspicuous fastening materials were used to secure the elements, and some brackets were improved.
As for ergonomics, there are no special surprises in the basic configuration of the Lada Granta. But in the “Lux” configuration there are many little things that make the trip more comfortable - these are heated seats, the presence of a sun visor, the possibility of folding the rear seat and the presence of a headrest on it.
Even the Norma Classic package already includes an on-board computer. It is located between the speedometer and tachometer. This is a convenient place to display vehicle data on the screen.
But most of the changes still remained cosmetic. In particular, the steering wheel and gearbox were redesigned. The trunk shelf is trimmed with new material. The body was strengthened in the area where the engine mount passes. Theoretically, all this should fit better into the interior than it did in previous Granta models. But, of course, it all depends solely on individual preferences.
Exterior and interior of Grants
So, the Lada Granta is presented in several versions:
- four-door sedan;
- liftback;
- sport.
Each was good in its own way, each received its share of attention. Granta also came in several configurations:
- standard;
- norm;
- lux.
Designers have worked hard to create a bright, bold, fresh design. No return to the past, no dullness and brevity, everything is as new and impressive as possible. In the image of Granta, one can trace the originality characteristic of AvtoVAZ cars, but if in the case of Kalina it was expressed in a barrel-shaped, slightly specific body, then in Granta it reached another level, where energy and grace, sophistication and charisma are intertwined.
The mid-size body received an intriguing design: AvtoVAZ finally installed large headlights and not the rectangular and recently outdated “drops”, but a more non-standard version, parallelepiped. In combination with modest foglights, skillfully built into niches, and a wide false grille, it all looks great.
In the exterior, one can note a lot of decorative elements: rear-view mirrors, a spoiler, chrome door handles and much, much more, which overall created a fascinating picture, respectable, luxurious. Tell me, was it ever possible to say something similar about domestic cars? Of course not. But life does not stand still, setting its priorities.
Let's not hide that Grante is still far from such works of automotive art as Mercedes, Volvo, or at least Hyundai models like Solaris or its analogues. Yes, here you still need to go and move forward, patiently, boldly. But still, progress is evident, and this can no longer help but rejoice.
The steering wheel is perfect, the gear shift lever works smoothly, softly, the dashboard surprises with an abundance of functions. The luxury version is especially good in this regard, it is equipped with an audio system, air conditioning, and much more, and the maximum speed of the Lada Granta luxury, according to the manufacturers, is a little, but more than that of the standard version.
Control and driving comfort
The new Lada Granta has become safer to operate - for this purpose the braking distance has been reduced. In addition, thanks to its streamlined shape, this car accelerates faster, which affects not only safety, but also good handling.
The car performs great on dry road surfaces. Its advantages include stability and the absence of the need for a sharp reduction in speed when cornering. The Granta's engine is powerful enough to quickly accelerate or climb uphill. But still, the speed in front of an obstacle should be reduced, mainly due to the high landing.
On high-speed roads, the new Lada Granta also behaves confidently and maintains excellent speed. There are no knocks when driving, but even improved sound insulation does not allow you to completely get rid of extraneous sounds like those made by cars passing by.
Speaking about the features of the Grant, it should also be noted that it has lower fuel consumption compared to previous versions of the same car. This allows you to reduce costs by about 10-15% from normal levels. This plus can be a serious savings when using the car frequently, especially in urban environments. The new model helps you brake quickly when you see a pedestrian crossing or traffic light.
A car with a manual transmission is the most practical option. If necessary, it will be possible to turn on a hint that will help you choose the right speed and switch to the desired mode for more efficient fuel economy.
In bad weather conditions, it has become easier to drive the car, since you can now choose a package that includes the installation of rain and light sensors. The adjustable steering column performed well. It is clear that the use of all these systems makes driving safer and prevents unnecessary extreme maneuvers in poor visibility conditions.
What factors influence the Grants Lux rate rate?
In some cases, the maximum speed of Lada Granta Lux may exceed the figure specified in the documentation. Motorists point to real acceleration of up to 180 and even 185 km/h. Of course, to set such records, certain conditions are needed to increase the limit. The most important factors influencing the speed gain and its increase are:
1. Quality and condition of the road surface.
2. Features of movement (in a straight line, descent or ascent).
3. Wind strength and direction.
4. Car load.
5. Radius of installed disks.
6. Tire height.
When driving on a flat and high-quality road, you can gain speed much faster. The presence of potholes or irregularities leads to jumps in the indicator and does not allow achieving a stable figure. And turns lead to its decrease and the need for further recruitment.
Going uphill sets the conditions under which any vehicle slows down. And the same downhill descent provides faster acceleration.
The presence of a tailwind also allows Granta Lux to increase the speed indicated in the passport. But a headwind increases resistance and slows down traffic.
Any precipitation or wet road can lead to skidding, even if the Granta is equipped with high-quality tires with hydroplaning protection. A slippery road is completely unsuitable for reaching maximum speed. Even the attempt itself becomes dangerous and can lead to an accident.
If the car is loaded, then the pressure on the road will be greater, and it will simply not be possible to gain the maximum. Even a couple of passengers accompanying the driver can cause a decrease in speed. Therefore, you can find out how fast a car can be by driving alone. It is worth checking only in good weather and on a good road.
Technical characteristics of Lada Granta
The main characteristics of the Lada Granta can be reduced to the following indicators:
body type - four-door 5-seater sedan (although there are other options - sport and liftback),
- external dimensions - 4260x1700x1500 mm;
- trunk volume is 550 liters, which will be appreciated by people who love traveling by car;
- wheelbase size - 246 cm;
- The front wheel track is 1430 mm, the rear wheel track is 1410 mm;
- ground clearance averages 160 mm;
- engine type - gasoline, injection type, with distributed fuel injection, which is controlled by an electronic system;
- engine displacement - 1596 cc;
- The engine power in the basic configuration is 87 hp, the torque value is 132 N∙m;
- The fuel tank capacity is 50 liters, the average gasoline consumption is 7.4 liters per 100 km, if calculated for urban conditions;
- the maximum possible speed of the model is 165 km/h, while from zero to “hundredth” the car warms up quite quickly - in 12.6 seconds.
In addition, the car is equipped with front-wheel drive and can have either a manual or automatic transmission. The front suspension is independent, the rear suspension is semi-independent, spring type.
High ground clearance is necessary for driving on bad roads, therefore, it is a fundamentally important point for the Lada Granta. This indicator depends on the model and configuration. For the Lada Granta Sedan, the ground clearance under the engine crankcase when fully loaded is 160 mm for manual transmission and 156 mm for automatic transmission. This value will be relevant for all types of equipment - standard norm and luxury. Under the gearbox housing with a manual transmission the same value will remain, but for an automatic transmission it decreases to 145 mm.
By the way, the clearance value for the Lada Granta Liftback will be slightly different from the sedan in any configuration.
It is also worth noting that when calculating ground clearance, the manufacturer takes the total weight of the car and adds an additional 400 kg to it. But in real life, the car does not receive such a load, so the ground clearance may be higher than its declared value.
Maximum speed of Lada Vesta in various modifications
The question of what is the maximum speed of the Lada Vesta interests many drivers. Of course, this is not entirely legal, but many car owners (mostly young) like to use empty highways at night to test the capabilities of their cars. The popularity of the car among this layer of car enthusiasts depends on how fast the Lada Vesta is. It is worth considering the possibilities of all possible modifications of this car - both currently available and planned for release in the future 2016.
Data on basic modifications of Vesta
First, you need to understand what exactly affects the maximum speed parameter of the Lada Vesta. The answer suggests itself - of course, an engine operated using the recommended fuel with the octane number specified in the technical passport. The transmission, although it affects the acceleration of the car (manual transmission, when handled skillfully, gives a sharper and more dynamic start than automatic transmission, with the same power indicators), cannot in any way increase its maximum speed, like other design elements.
The Lada Vesta sedan currently comes with only one type of engine. This is a sixteen-valve 1.6-liter VAZ engine, somewhat improved and with a rated power of 106 horsepower. It, like other engines that will soon (according to the designers) complement and expand the capabilities of buyers, has an electronic throttle valve (which in its performance characteristics is much better than a mechanical one) and an electronic gas pedal.
The speedometer on the analogue dial on the instrument panel is limited to 180 km/h. The basic configuration of the power unit (both manual and automatic) falls slightly short of this value. The maximum speed obtained during test drives was 178 km/h.
Future Developments
It is worth noting that Vesta’s developments do not end with this power unit. It will be interesting to find out the maximum speed of the Lada Vesta in other versions of the power unit assembly - fortunately, there is already data on them.
The two engines optionally available to replace the base one are a 1.6-liter Japanese engine from Nissan (118 hp) and a 1.8-liter sixteen-valve engine from AvtoVAZ (123 hp). Increasing the power rating also increases torque, allowing the wheels to spin faster and propel the vehicle forward even faster. For the Nissan engine, the maximum speed is 185 km/h; for the VAZ flagship, this value is not yet known. However, comparing the pros and cons of these two engines, we can predict in advance that the VAZ engine will provide more opportunities for maximum acceleration.
It is worth noting that the latter engine in the future will give the highest maximum speed of the Lada Vesta - until the advent of sports modifications with a forced engine of 140 hp. (however, it’s too early to talk about this). It is likely that the Vesta sports sedan will accelerate to 200 km/h and above - although the engine size will increase fuel consumption, the power indicator is quite good. The professional racing concept (can be seen in the photo, as well as in the proposed videos) has already reached speeds of over 280 km/h - work on its further improvement is also being carried out by the automaker's designers.
Vesta speed on HBO
As for the maximum speed of the Lada Vesta CNG, which is a new conceptual development of AvtoVAZ and beneficially complements the concern’s model range, the maximum speed indicators here are not entirely clear.
The Vesta version, equipped with professional gas equipment, will retain its main fuel tank, but will receive two built-in cylinders for storing high-pressure gas. The fact is that instead of the popular propane or butane, the designers converted Vesta to LPG to use natural gas (methane) - and it does not liquefy under normal operating conditions.
The safety of the new model has already been confirmed by successfully completed crash tests of concepts. The maximum speed on gasoline traction will be the same value as for Vesta models not equipped with LPG with the same power unit. As for the use of gas as a fuel, when burned it produces less energy and, accordingly, has a lower efficiency. There are no exact values for the maximum speed of the Lada Vesta on gas, but it is unlikely to go beyond the approximate range of 140-150 km/h.
In conclusion, it is worth saying that it will be possible to increase the maximum speed of the Lada Vesta by increasing the size of the wheels and slightly reducing the ground clearance. The first procedure will increase the distance traveled per revolution of the drive axle, the second will improve the aerodynamic properties of the car and increase grip due to the pressing action of the flowing air flow. Naturally, the price of the issue may cast doubt on the feasibility of this procedure - however, fans of fast driving will in any case appreciate this opportunity.
Prices and options
The price of the Lada Granta is perhaps the most pressing issue for potential buyers. As always, everything depends on the configuration - in the cheapest version the cost will be 329,900 rubles, and in the most expensive - over 572 thousand rubles. Moreover, even in the basic model they are distinguished by a rich selection of equipment - from a multimedia system to an on-board computer and many other devices.
The list, which includes the basic configurations of the Lada Granta , looks like this:
- “Standard” package - main characteristics: power 87 hp, manual transmission, window frames are made in body color, no bumper paint. There is a driver airbag, child seat mounts, and a rear door locking function (this is important for families with small children). Also noteworthy are the presence of daytime running lights, anti-lock brakes and a modern braking system equipped with electronics. The price ranges from 329.9 - 389.9 thousand rubles
- “Standard+” package - the main indicators correspond to those given above - the same power of 87 hp, manual gearbox5, but the bumpers are painted in body color, the door frames are made black. The price is 333.9 - 392.2 thousand rubles
- “Norma Classic” package - the main indicators are not much different from the classic package - the same 87 hp. and manual transmission5, but the rear seats have headrests, which increases the level of passenger comfort, and the car itself is equipped with an on-board computer. The price of this version is 365.6-425.6 thousand rubles
- The “Norma Classic+” package has the same characteristics as the previous package, only it additionally has air conditioning, an electrically heated exterior mirror function, and electric windows. The price is 387.7-447.7 thousand rubles
- The “Lux” package already has a power of 106 hp. and MCP5. In addition, the model offers a higher level of comfort - climate and multimedia, an additional airbag for the passenger, fog lights, a built-in security alarm system, heated front seats and many other functions that help make any trip enjoyable. The price of the Luxury version will be 443.4-519.4 thousand rubles. A “Lux” package with a robotic gearbox is also available. Its price is up to 544.4 thousand rubles
- “Luxury Navigation” package - Can be equipped with both MKP5 and RKP5. At the same time, there is a climate system, parking sensors, an audio system, a navigator and many other useful functions. The price is 547.4-572.4 thousand rubles.
Sporty on the outside and no less sporty on the inside
The gearshift lever and steering wheel are now covered with very high-quality leatherette, a seven-inch touch (!) display has appeared on the console, and the front windows are electric “already in the base.” By the way, the 2022 Lada Granta Sport is comparable in cost to a “non-sport” car, but in the “Lux” specification. However, even in the previous generation, the Granta Sport version was never cheap.
Lada Granta Sport 2022 – interior/front
Today's sports "civilian" Grant has a 1.6-liter engine, boosted to 120 horses and 160 Nm, against the "former" 145. This power unit was designed on the basis of a serial engine with the VAZ 21126 index - a very productive engine. Among other things, this version was equipped with brake components from AP-Racing with 200 mm 4-piston ventilated front disc brakes and 135 mm 2-piston rear disc brakes.
So-called semi-sports seats with pronounced lateral support are installed here. They have a long cushion, but are also designed in a “sporty” way.
Choosing a used car
Many people agree to buy a Lada Granta with mileage, that is, already used. But in this case, you need to know what you might encounter, given that these cars have been produced not so long ago, since 2011, and therefore, with a relatively low mileage, the degree of wear and tear will also be low.
Firstly, it should be noted that initially this family included only one option - a four-door sedan. Then in 2011, the Lada Granta Sport appeared on the market. Its main differences from the classics were alloy wheels with a diameter of 16 inches, an increased size of the rear and front brake discs, and a reduction in ground clearance by 20 mm. In addition, Granta Sport has gas-filled shock absorbers and low-profile tires. Another body option is the Granta Liftback, which appeared on the market in 2014. It differs from other types in the shape of both the body itself and the rear side doors, as well as the front bumper and some other small details. So even among cars that are no longer new, there are various options - Lada Granta sedan, Liftback and Sport.
Secondly, many of those who would like to buy a used Grant are primarily interested in its engine, despite its short service life. For some reason, domestic motorists are confident that the Lada Granta’s engine is its weak point. In fact, any budget car will have certain problems with the engine. In this case, it should be remembered that cars of this family can be equipped with 8- and 16-valve engines. And they behave differently during operation.
Among the positive characteristics of 8-valve engines, it can be noted that even if the belt breaks, the valves do not bend, so everything is not so bad. But 16-valve models behave worse; they require urgent replacement of a failed part. But when replacing the belt, you will need to install new tension rollers. At the same time as these breakdowns, the water pump is often replaced.
Another important point: oil smudges are typical for all variations of engines used in this family. This may bother the motorist, but in fact it does not in any way affect the operation of the power unit. But if, when starting the engine and changing the speed, blue smoke from the muffler is noticeable, this is already dangerous.
Thirdly, certain questions arise regarding the transmission in the Lada Grant. Here, squeaks in the clutch pedal are a common occurrence; there is no need to be nervous about this. However, experts recommend regularly lubricating both the bushing on the cable near the clutch fork and the place where the pedal connects to the rod.
Some experts advise filling a new car with synthetic compounds, and after 100 thousand kilometers - semi-synthetic ones. But, of course, when buying an old Lada Granta, it is difficult to say how its owner treated it in this case. In general, the figure of 100 thousand kilometers plays an important role for such cars. If before this the engine worked perfectly, then after this indicator the compression begins to drop and the power decreases. Over time, it may happen that the situation worsens, and then the piston group as a whole will have to be changed.
Gradually, of course, the clutch disc wears out, and the pedal rises higher than normal, and at the same time there is an increase in free play. In such cases, you need to change both the disk and the basket at once, and it is advisable to purchase imported spare parts for this, since their service life is much longer.
Finally, it is worth noting that the main problems with used cars occur mainly with a manual transmission. When tested, it may make noise when switching. In addition, when driving at speed, the lever may begin to vibrate quite strongly, and then the clutch will begin to creak. This sound may be heard when the clutch is depressed, which means something needs to be done to the pedal bushing. But sometimes the sound comes from the engine compartment. This means that the problem is in the tip drive. In general, most often the clutch on a Lada Grant has to be repaired after 50 thousand kilometers.
Your problems may also be related to the automatic transmission. As a rule, they are especially pronounced during rain. Usually the problem comes down to the fact that there is a special sensor in the automatic control unit, but in wet weather it works worse, and sometimes the car may not start at all because of this. So you need to contact a specialist.
Advantages and disadvantages
The exterior of the Lada Standard configuration is not impressive in any way, it is even somewhat unsightly. What's included in this version? This image of the car is created by unpainted mirrors, rear and front bumpers, and door handles. In addition, the overall picture is further aggravated by the presence of disc hubcaps and a radiator grille, but this is the most minimal configuration for you. A negative point is also the lack of tinting and the car is not equipped with electronics. One should not expect anything else, since the Lada Granta is an economy class car. Therefore, the car definitely needs tuning solutions, especially its minimum configuration.
Tuning itself is something between creating an individually unique image of your “iron horse” and upgrading the car’s control systems. In further versions, AvtoVAZ made the necessary adjustments and slightly modified the exterior and equipment of the Lada. Now the car looks more presentable and, first of all, thanks to the “casting” on 13 wheels.
What's included in the popular car? Granta is equipped according to basic modern requirements. All necessary passive safety equipment is available: AirBag for the driver, inertial belts, latches for a child car seat. The Lada Standard version has daytime running lights, a spare wheel and the ability to fold the rear row of seats. The main advantage of the standard layout of the Lada Granta in the most minimal configuration is the low price, which is affordable for many fellow citizens.
Granta is available in three versions: Standard, Norma, Lux. The Russian automaker has specially launched the production of several variants of the Lada in order to be able to satisfy the needs of different categories of car enthusiasts. Moreover, the higher the price, the safer and more comfortable the ride.
Plenty of choice
It should be noted that the configurations of the Lada Granta are different, or rather, there are only three of them: the Lada Granta Standard, the Lada Granta Norma, and the Lada Granta Luxury. The manufacturer, that is, the VAZ concern, deliberately took such a step in order to diversify the Russian automobile market. These models differ in configuration and price, but most importantly, in engine power.
The models also have different levels of security. In addition, the configurations of the Lada Granta differ in comfort. The VAZ concern specially introduced several variants of “Grants” into production so that the buyer could choose a car within his means. That is, if the main thing for a motorist is the appearance, and not the filling of the car, then he will be able to save money, and if the consumer needs “full stuffing,” then this option is available. And since 2013, hatchbacks of this model have also gone on sale.
