History of the model
Chevrolet Niva has been produced since 2002 at the AvtoVAZ plant in Tolyatti. Equipped with a 1.7 liter injection engine producing 80 hp. (borrowed from the VAZ 2123 and adapted for the Chevrolet Niva - a variation of the VAZ-21214 engine). It has all-wheel drive, which fans of CUV cars call “honest” (implemented through a transfer case, not a robot or automatic).
Until 2002, before the merger of AVTOVAZ PJSC with a subsidiary of General Motors, the same plant produced a similar car, the VAZ 2123. The Chevrolet Niva was created on its basis, since General Motors representatives considered the Russian development promising for promotion in other markets. There are minimal differences between the VAZ 2123 and the Chevrolet Niva - the components have been improved, newer units have been used, the spare wheel is “hung” on the trunk door, which in a Chevrolet opens not upwards, but to the side.
In 2006, the manufacturer proposed a new modification of the Niva - with a 1.8, 122 hp engine, borrowed from Opel. The cost of this version turned out to be unreasonably high, according to motorists, and accordingly the demand turned out to be low. The crossover in this configuration has ceased to be produced.
The new Chevrolet Niva appeared in 2009. This is still the first generation (technical capabilities remain the same), but after restyling. Below we will look at how significant the changes turned out to be.
An impressive concept car for the second generation of the Chevrolet Niva (2017) is already ready, but the manufacturer is delaying the release of the new product.
How many horses are under the hood of the Chevrolet Niva?
The next thing you need to know about the domestic Chevrolet Niva SUV is how much horsepower the engine produces. The car has a classic 21214 gasoline engine, which was inherited from the LADA 4x4.
The power unit is no different from it in terms of characteristics and design:
- type – in-line, 4-cylinder, with distributed fuel injection;
- power – 79.9 l.;
- volume – 1690 cubic meters. cm;
- toxicity standard – EURO 5.
Unlike its predecessor, the engine has been slightly modernized. Hydraulic compensators were installed on it, thanks to which the valve adjustment procedure is no longer required.
A plastic cover has also been added to the engine compartment, reducing noise during operation and providing additional protection.
AvtoVAZ produced the Chevrolet Niva with a 1.8-liter Opel engine - this limited edition FAM1 was very rare.
This “heart” is a little more powerful. But due to its installation, the design of the transmission and exhaust system had to be slightly changed, which negatively affected off-road driving.
Description of the model before restyling
To judge the Chevrolet Niva, let’s study its characteristics inherent in the model both before and after restyling.
Specifications
The crossover is “built” on the platform of its predecessor, the VAZ 2123. The suspension is independent multi-link at the front and dependent at the rear. Disc brakes in front, drums in rear.
The engine is neither powerful nor reliable, but its resources are enough for 200 thousand kilometers, and its power is enough to climb steep mountains where there is no way for passenger cars and SUVs. The cylinder block is made of high-strength cast iron. Peak torque – 128 Nm at 4 thousand rpm. Power steering – hydraulic.
Driving performance
The Chevrolet Niva is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, supplemented by a transfer case. It is the latter that comes to the rescue in difficult situations (towing, difficult road sections). With its help, all-wheel drive is connected, torque is distributed equally to the front and rear axles. Increased traction allows you to get out of difficult situations (mud, sand, snowdrifts), and drive through difficult sections of the road (steep ascents and descents). And forced locking of the center differential increases the vehicle's maneuverability in areas with different road surfaces.
The maximum speed of the crossover does not exceed 140 km/h, acceleration to hundreds is possible in only 12 seconds.
Fuel and oil consumption
But, since we are talking about a real “SUV” (albeit a compact one), there is no need to talk about low fuel consumption (as well as oil), and yet it is not the largest in the class - on average 10-12 l/100 km (in city driving). cycle can reach 14.2 outside the city 8.9 l). Tank volume – 58 l.
Jeep exterior
Experts in their reviews of the Chevrolet Niva repeatedly mention “good body geometry.” The exterior of the Russian SUV, produced under the American Chevrolet brand, is truly distinguished by its angularity and originality. No design tricks, only harmonious integrity.
At the same time, the appearance clearly reveals that it belongs to the CUV segment (“strict” radiator grille, teardrop-shaped headlights, powerful rear).
Dimensions of Chevrolet Niva
The Chevrolet Niva, due to its “modest” dimensions, belongs to the class of crossovers:
- length – 3.9 m (excluding the spare wheel mounted on the trunk door),
- width – 1.77 m (excluding side mirrors),
- height – 1.65 (without roof rails),
- weight - equipped 1400, full 1860 kg.
Salon
The wheelbase of the Chevrolet Niva is 245 cm, so five adults can easily fit in the cabin (unless, of course, these are five tall men - the back seat will be a bit cramped).
In front of the driver is a multi-spoke steering wheel, speedometers of the usual type, and many buttons on the right hand on the entire surface of the vertical panel. The trim of the panels is plastic, the seats are fabric. Between the seats is the handle for the manual transmission and transfer case.
The front seats can be moved forward, and the angle of the backrest can be changed (manually).
Shipping
The trunk is small but roomy – 320 liters. The rear seats are retracted almost to the floor (60/40), releasing up to 650 liters. You can fit a boat, a small tent, an air mattress (folded) and other things necessary for trips out of town.
Larger cargo can be placed on the roof, on the roof rails (although they are not available in all trim levels).
UAZ or Niva: differences in suspension design
The UAZ Hunter has a dependent leaf spring suspension, which is distinguished by its reliability when driving on mud and stones, but on the other hand, there is a complete lack of comfort. That is why this car is called the “goat”.
Compared to the Hunter, the ride on the Niva is softer, since the suspension here is different: independent in the front and dependent in the rear. In addition, the Niva also has power steering, ABS brakes and emergency brake assist.
The interior has a fabric interior and power accessories have been added to the front doors, but otherwise the car remains the same as it was 20 years ago. Among the options is only a cigarette lighter, and what else is needed for a comfortable ride on the harsh Russian off-road.
As for the UAZ Hunter, its finishing is even more modest, but there is an opportunity to make tuning based on your taste preferences. Typically, Hunter owners purchase a winch, a protective bumper or a guardrail, and also install an additional trunk or gas tank. Since this is an off-road vehicle, it is usually made as functional as possible for off-road driving.
Restyling 2009
After restyling, the Niva grew in size: its length was 4048 mm, it became 4056, its width became 1800 instead of 1770, and its height “rose” by 38 mm. And I gained 10 kg (1410). This is how the Chevrolet Niva appeared in a new body with a slightly “tweaked” exterior and many trim levels: different levels of equipment, comfort and external design. The designers replaced the bumpers (they got a rubber lining), mirrors, slightly modified the grille, installed new lens headlights, the lights got a rounded shape and a different pattern, and the rims got a different design.
In the interior, changes affected the shape of the steering wheel (it became three-spoke) and the handle (slightly enlarged, covered in leather). There are cup holders, a box for storing small items and an eyeglass case. The seats are upholstered in higher quality material. The door seals were made thicker (to increase sound insulation). A new audio system was also installed.
In 2010, engineers replaced the driveshaft crosspieces with CV joints and modernized the hinge joints in the front suspension.
Another small modernization was carried out in 2015. Engineers at the GM-AvtoVAZ plant worked on the engine. As a result of their efforts, fuel consumption decreased: on average 10.2 liters, in the city - 13.2, on the highway - 8.4 liters). And in order for the engine to comply with Euro-5 standards, the amount of emissions into the atmosphere was reduced. Now the car accelerates longer – in 19 seconds. The torque has changed slightly - 127.4 Nm at 4000 rpm.
Features of luggage compartments
To summarize, let’s say that the Niva’s trunk is really small in volume – less than 400 liters. But due to the space freed up after the rear seats are removed, it becomes more spacious. Railings became a bonus for some models. You can finish the conversation about the features of the Chevy trunk with a simple comparison with the Granta liftback.
With a volume of 440 liters in the Granta's trunk, its capacity, as practice shows, is significantly lower due to the peculiarities of the geometry of the space. The square trunk of the Niva turns out to be much more rational to use than the Grant one, which is more voluminous in terms of technical characteristics, but is “cut off” by the inclined glass of the door.
The car does not have a truly spacious trunk. Therefore, before purchasing, you should decide how important this criterion is for you, and choose a car model based on this.
The car is still produced today. During this time, its image, starting in 2002, when the presentation of the production version took place, has not changed much. A minor restyling was carried out only in 2009. And then it was a so-called facelift, i.e. the manufacturer slightly changed the appearance of the Niva - to integrate with the general style of Chevrolet cars.
After restyling, the car received slightly modified bumpers at the front and rear, and new head-lensed optics (for low beam). The rear lampshades have changed slightly, and decorative trims have appeared on the body. Of course, it is impossible to say that the Chevrolet Niva has changed significantly, but the exterior has become more practical and attractive.
Externally, the Chevrolet Niva has compact dimensions with correct body proportions. One of the main advantages of the car is its high ground clearance, which improves off-road performance.
The overall dimensions of the Chevrolet Niva are as follows:
- length is 3.919 m, not including the spare wheel at the stern;
- The width of the SUV is 1.8 m, and including the rear-view mirrors, the width increases to 212 cm;
- wheelbase 245 cm, front overhang 721 mm, rear overhang 748 mm;
- Shnivy height 1650 mm;
- car weight is 1410 kg;
- Ground clearance at full load is 20 cm under the rear axle gearbox, without load, ground clearance is 24 cm.
- Fuel tank capacity is 50 liters.
At the front, the car received a different grille, which is now integrated with the front bumper. Thus, the problem with a large gap between the bumper and the grille, which was on the version before the facelift, was solved. Other air intakes were also installed on the radiator grille. The front bumper also received changes. The holes for installing fog lights became round instead of rectangular, and a protective cover appeared in the central part.
Black plastic linings began to be installed on the wheel arches. The decorative moldings on the doors have expanded. The body pillars are painted black. Changes have also been made to such small details as turn signal repeaters: they now take the shape of a wedge.
The rear has also undergone minor changes. The headlights received a block of direction indicators and reverse alerts in a round rather than rectangular shape. The bumper has been modified and has special ventilation grilles equipped with check valves. The loading area on the bumper has increased, albeit slightly.
Available configurations and prices
The new, 2022 Chevrolet Niva is sold in 8 trim levels, including the maximum (710 tr.) and luxury (725 tr.). A wide choice, considering that until 2009 the Niva was produced in 3 trim levels, and until 2006 - in one. Prices for new cars are presented on the official website: from 553.5 tr.
The base includes: heated feet, electric windows and exterior mirrors, some modern security systems, 15-inch alloy wheels, isothermal glass.
The top versions are even different in appearance: the bumpers, arch trims, canopy over the spare wheel and door handles are body-colored, roof rails can support up to 75 kg, 16-inch wheels are installed, and the rear windows are tinted. The luxury version is not just a little better equipped and more comfortable, but is also designed to overcome more serious water obstacles (fords more than 40 cm deep).
Also, the Niva Chevrolet LE (630-660 TR) configurations are considered the most prepared for off-road conditions (fords up to 50 cm). Special versions are equipped with a snorkel to overcome water obstacles.
On the secondary market you can purchase any of the configurations up to 2019, including the Niva with a 1.8 liter engine and 122 hp, as well as the VAZ 2123, produced until 2002. Prices vary from 120 tr. up to 600 tr.
Malfunctions of VAZ-2123
| Causes | How to fix |
| Engine won't start | |
| There are several main reasons for problems with starting the Chevrolet Niva VAZ-2123 engine: 1. Severe contamination of the fuel line, which caused insufficient fuel to enter the engine; 2. The filter in the connection between the gasoline supply pipe and the engine has not been replaced for a long time; 3. Problem with the feed pump (does not pump, does not pump enough fuel). | Basically, you can fix the problem yourself: 1. To prevent clogging of the fuel system, you need to rinse with water or blow with compressed air; 2. Repair or replace the fuel injection unit; 3. Clean or change the filter. |
| Constantly stalls while driving or idling | |
| 1. Lack of the required level of pressure in the gasoline supply system (also true for a field with a diesel engine); 2. Problems with the idle control device; 3. Air getting into the fuel supply hoses, unstable operation of the crankcase ventilation, air getting into the brake boosters, which should be sealed by default. | 1. Check the serviceability of the pump, repair or replace it with a new one; 2. It is quite difficult to repair the idle air control yourself, so an easier solution would be to completely replace it with a new one; 3. If air is trapped in places where it should not be, it is worth checking all the clamps, tightening them, and making sure that there are no damaged hoses and fasteners. |
| Engine power is not rated | |
| 1. Problem with the throttle valve, its incomplete opening; 2. Also, due to a malfunction of the electronic component, namely the throttle position sensor, problems may arise with supplying the required amount of gasoline to the engine; 3. Inoperative or faulty ignition system in the car. | 1. Carry out diagnostics and adjustment of the throttle. To do this, you do not need to have any special skills, which allows any car enthusiast to cope with the task; 2. If there are problems with electronic sensors, the best solution is to completely replace them; 3. Check the serviceability of the spark plugs and the presence of a working battery. |
Main competitors
In its niche and price segment, the Chevrolet Niva is the undisputed leader. When choosing a car that costs 400-800 rubles, car enthusiasts consider, in addition to the Niva, only the Lada and Renault Duster, and sometimes the Japanese Suzuki Grand Vitara. They also look at Chinese and Korean SUVs, but much less often: Ssang Yong Actyon, Chery Tiggo, Great wall H3.
If you choose between Niva Lada or Niva Chevrolet. The choice will fall on the first model only if there are insufficient financial resources. Since the Chevrolet looks more modern and is more comfortable inside, its trim levels have more options, especially in the restyled version.
If you choose between a Chevrolet Niva or Renault Duster, then you should choose the latter if you are not a hunter or fisherman and do not travel through impassable places, and if the level of comfort is more important than the level of cross-country ability.
Are common
Permissible total weight of the towed trailer, kg
| Number of seats equipped with seat belts | 5 |
| Total weight, kg | 1860 |
| Weight in running order*, kg | 1485 |
| Load capacity, kg | 420 |
| Luggage compartment volume, l | 320 |
| - with rear seats folded | 650 |
| Turning radius, m | 5.7 |
The main advantages of the car
The first thing I want to say when looking at the Chevrolet Niva is:
- compactness (does not cause any special problems when parking),
- stability on difficult road sections,
- high cross-country ability (fording is possible, and if you know how to use the transfer case, the Chevrolet Niva will allow you to get out of difficult situations without outside help - from any mud, slush and snowdrifts),
- engine power is enough to climb steep mountains,
- high landing,
- spacious salon,
- The increased heat resistance of the linings on the clutch discs comes in handy during friction and rocking.
Competitive advantages
The main competitive advantage of the Chevrolet Niva is its ability to cope with any negative road conditions. It was possible to achieve high cross-country ability due to a ground clearance of more than 20 cm (varies from 20 to 24 cm), not wide overhangs, and most importantly due to a reliable transmission. Ground clearance can be increased by installing 17-inch wheels rather than 16-inch ones. Cross-country ability and stability on the road in adverse weather conditions will be higher if you purchase wheels with high-profile tires.
Video: Chevrolet Niva GLC Multimedia - is it worth buying in 2019?
Cross-country ability of Chevrolet Niva
The SUV has permanent all-wheel drive - rotation is transmitted to all 4 wheels and cannot be turned off.
Using the transfer case, you can select several modes to overcome mud barriers and snowdrifts:
- there are low and high gears to change the torque;
- The ability to lock the center differential increases the vehicle's cross-country ability.
The high ground clearance of 200 mm adds convenience. Thanks to him, he can confidently move off-road. The car can be equipped with 205/75R15 or 215/65R16 tires. They will provide excellent cross-country ability under any conditions.
What problems might you encounter?
The Chevrolet Niva has only one main and significant drawback. When the car is actively used for its main purpose (with frequent off-road trips, in the most inaccessible places, with frequent trips along the highway at maximum speeds), the main systems often fail. You have to shell out a considerable amount for repairs.
In other cases (with rare outings and moderate driving, in compliance with the speed limit), the SUV demonstrates maximum reliability; frequent and expensive repairs are not required.
Where to look for the body number
When registering a Niva with the traffic police, the problem is finding the factory markings. The body number is located in the engine compartment:
- Open the hood of the car.
- On the front mount of the load-bearing support, find a special plate with information about the car.
- Next to this plate you will find the VIN number.
- The marking is duplicated under the floor lining in the trunk.
Niva Chevrolet overall dimensions
The overall dimensions of the Chevrolet Niva SUV are considered quite compact, and its length is no more than four meters. But despite this, thanks to its high ground clearance, which is more than twenty centimeters, it is ready for any obstacles associated with difficult to pass places. The picture below shows all the characteristics, but I would like to note that they may differ slightly from the sizes indicated by official manufacturers, since in fact they are different. For example, clearance can be indicated from 20-24 cm, since it depends on where the measurement is made. It is measured at the lowest point and is located in the rear of the car, and usually under the bridge, but they can indicate the distance from the engine protection to the ground and therefore the readings will be different. The SUV also comes from the factory with 15 and 16 inch wheels, which also affects what the ground clearance will be.
Dimensions and technical characteristics of the vehicle
Dimensions are determined by three main dimensions: length, width and height of the body. Length is measured from the front bumper to the rear bumper. The width is measured where the widest place is, and as a rule these are the wheel arches, as well as along the central pillars of the body, the height is measured from the roof to the ground, and if there are roof rails, then the measurement is made with them.
The interior is no larger in size and if, for example, five adult men go on a trip, it will be uncomfortable. The wheelbase, which plays a decisive role in the spaciousness of the cabin, is 2450 millimeters. Therefore, if you decide to ride it long distances with a larger group, this may cause you great inconvenience.
As for the trunk of the Chevrolet Niva, it is small and its size is 320 liters, but if you fold the rear row of seats, it increases to 650 liters. The problem with the lack of space for luggage can be solved by installing roof rails and placing an additional box on them. The factory equipment does not include roof rails, so when purchasing this SUV you need to immediately decide whether you need them or not.
Conclusion
To summarize, we can conclude that this is a compact car, which can rightfully be classified as an SUV, which meets all modern requirements, and is ideal for:
- Residents of villages and towns where there are no good roads
- Who loves extreme holidays
- Also for people involved in construction and agriculture who tour their sites
Despite its compactness, this car is a universal compact all-wheel drive SUV with increased cross-country ability, which has a durable supporting structure and reliable components and assemblies.
expertniva.ru
Technical characteristics of Chevrolet Niva
For residents of the Russian outback, you probably won’t find a better car than the Chevrolet Niva. Of course, there is such a legendary car as the Lada 4×4, but unlike the Niva 212300, it does not have such comfort and convenience while driving, so this car is the best on the Russian market.
History of appearance
This SUV first appeared back in 2002, although this could have happened even earlier, since AvtoVAZ back in 1998 prepared a project according to which the VAZ-2123 was supposed to replace the outdated Niva 2121. But since there was no money for mass production of the new product its license was sold to the foreign concern General Motor, after which a year later more than a thousand changes were made and in 2002 the first generation cars were released.
This Chevrolet Niva SUV was restyled in 2009, thanks to which it received a more modern look and began to look more like Chevrolet’s corporate style. Of course, it’s difficult to call this SUV a standard of beauty, although overall this car looks quite decent, practical and recognizable. Despite the fact that the car is compact, it has a high ground clearance, which increases its off-road properties, as well as the presence of a well-balanced body proportion.
Of course, the interior of this car is not entirely spacious, this is especially felt when you sit in the back row, where there is very little space in the legs. However, for the driver there is a very ergonomic space, where the center console is located at a convenient angle, and thanks to the larger expanse of glass, it has excellent visibility and a comfortable seating position, this is especially felt in the Chevrolet Niva released at the beginning of 2014. Thanks to the fact that the SUV has modern seats with a new headrest and little lateral support.
Significant advantages of this car include the trunk, the size of which is 320 liters, and if you fold the rear seats of the second row it will reach 650 liters. Due to the fact that there is no threshold in the trunk and a wide doorway, loading and unloading luggage occurs without any difficulties.
Technical characteristics of the Chevrolet Niva:
At the moment, one power plant option is proposed. It is a conventional naturally aspirated gasoline engine with four cylinders with a total volume of 1.7 liters with a sixteen-valve timing belt and a five-speed manual transmission. Thus, the car fits into all Euro standards. Gasoline consumption in the city is approximately fourteen liters, on the highway - eight and a half, in the combined cycle - about ten.
It is worth adding that in the period from 2006 to 2008 there was a modification that was equipped with a 1.8 liter engine with 122 horsepower.
The basis of the Chevrolet Niva is a monocoque body with an independent front spring, an independent five-rod rear spring and a suspension with double wishbones. A disc brake is located on the front axle of the SUV, and conventional drum brakes on the rear axle. The brake system is complemented by a vacuum booster, and newer ones already have an ABS system. The rack and pinion steering mechanism works in conjunction with the power steering. All modifications are equipped with permanent all-wheel drive, with a two-speed transfer case based on a center locking differential. High ground clearance and compact dimensions, coupled with all-wheel drive, provide excellent maneuverability, as well as excellent stability on corners and slippery roads.
Key Features:
- This model uses 30 teeth on the sprocket in the oil pump, while the old one uses 38.
- The front suspension is independent with a pair of transverse wishbones on both sides. But the rear suspension is already dependent. This suspension is distinguished by its high long-travel and energy intensity, it is perfectly balanced, but due to the greater mass of the car, it fails more often than its predecessor.
- Particular attention is paid to step bearings, which must be lubricated every thirty thousand kilometers, and their tightening levels must be monitored. Since when the bearings fail, there is no characteristic hum, so in addition to replacing them, you may have to change the hubs themselves, as they begin to be eaten.
Description of design advantages:
- The presence of rubber-plastic moldings on the lower parts of the doors, thereby protecting the body from gravel or branches from under the wheels.
- Thanks to the enlarged radiator grille, air flow into the engine compartment increases.
- Modified head optics form an even light beam.
Chevrolet Niva technical characteristics and shortcomings in the interior:
- Lack of simultaneous windshield and foot blowing.
- The side mirror control unit is inconveniently located.
- A high niche for small items makes it difficult to access the handles that adjust the tilt of the chair back.
- In the restyled version, due to the volumetric protrusion on the ceiling, the noise level in the cabin has increased; due to the resonator, during rain, and also at speeds of fifty to seventy kilometers per hour, there is strong vibration, which is caused by the operation of the driveshaft.
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