In 2014, the Russian concern AvtoVAZ presented an unusual new product. We are talking about an “off-road” modification of a passenger station wagon, which became known as the “Lada Largus Cross”. Reviews from real owners, all the pros and cons of this car – that’s what I’d like to talk about. The car was actively advertised, and two full years have already passed since it went on sale. Many people have become owners of the Largus Cross model, and most of them actively leave various reviews. And they should be given attention.
Interior decoration
A person spends most of his time inside the car; many reviews of the Lada Largus Cross begin with comments regarding the interior. The designers tried to make the interior as attractive as possible, decorating it with bright orange accents. But car owners do not primarily note the aesthetics of the interior. Much more important for them is trunk volume and ergonomics.
One of the advantages is the presence of normal full-fledged handles on the driver's seat, which replaced the strange recesses in the armrests. And a large trunk, which in normal condition can accommodate 560 liters of cargo, and with the seats folded down about 2350 liters. In general, there is plenty of space inside. If you fold the back row of seats, you can sit comfortably and sleep with your legs stretched out. Largely thanks to the space, the pseudo-off-road station wagon “Largus Cross” gained recognition.
Owner reviews also include all disadvantages regarding the interior decoration of the car. Many people do not like the left steering column light switch. It interferes when turning on the turn signals. It’s simply impossible not to hurt him. Because of this, the headlights turn off, which causes inconvenience to the driver, especially in the dark.
Another disadvantage is that the horn button, which is located on the steering column switch, is too sensitive. If the driver needs to take out the mat to shake off the snow, he will definitely hit it with his head.
Reviews
Mikhail Krasov, 31 years old, Murmansk.
After the acquisition I was extremely pleased with Cross. The car passed a difficult test. Our whole family drove it to Georgia in the summer to visit relatives. In total there were 6 people in the car. The car, despite such a load, calmly overcame all the ups and downs; the suspension, despite its relative noise, perfectly smoothed out road unevenness. We covered about 5 thousand kilometers, as we stopped in many cities along the way.
Oleg Belov, 34 years old, Moscow.
The only thing I didn’t like about the Cross was the lack of a cabin filter inside the stove. When the motor is turned on, all the dust from the street and from the air duct system rushes into the cabin, which is very unpleasant. I would also like the instrument panel (on-board) to show the temperature outside the car. Otherwise, it is a quite suitable device, especially for long but rare trips.
Konstantin Churbanov, 43 years old, Kostroma.
I bought a Lada Cross for work, since I have my own small business. And you know, everything about this car is great, except for one “but”! It is impossible to drive continuously for more than two hours. It's all the fault of the seats, which, as if on purpose, were made for dwarfs. The headrest rests almost on the shoulder blades, and the lower back constantly dangles from side to side.
Evgeny Batrushin, 44 years old, Moscow.
Less than six months after the purchase, the upper part of the plastic threshold on the right side of my Cross has already peeled off. At first I didn’t notice, but when I noticed it, it was too late. After removing the trim, we found 3 through holes in the threshold, through which water first flowed in a thin stream, and after they were picked apart, dirt also poured out. The conclusions suggest themselves, as for me, it’s immediately clear that AvtoVAZ didn’t give a damn about the build quality.
Mark Vilnov, 26 years old, Mariupol.
Overall: I'm happy with the car. Cross copes with its tasks perfectly, carrying loads along country roads. I took it at the start-up of my business, when I just started small-scale production of my own cheese. On Cross, I carry large cans of milk, since suppliers do not have their own delivery, and I don’t really want to pay logistics companies. Thanks to its unpretentiousness, when things started to take off, the car quickly paid for itself. So I advise everyone who is going to develop a small business, especially in rural areas.
Ergonomics
Information about it is also contained in the owner reviews left about the Largus Cross station wagon. All the disadvantages, of course, relate to the interior decoration, but they were worth highlighting separately.
All buttons and switches are located in places that defy logical explanation. Including buttons for heated seats, power windows and mirror adjustments. The car also lacks armrests and containers for storing all sorts of small items. As a result, everything has to be stored in the driver's door pocket, and this is inconvenient. No one yet sees practicality in the passenger shelf on the ceiling.
Many people criticize the main tailgate that doesn't close well. To lock it, you need to make a special effort. Otherwise, only the bottom hinge of the trunk will be caught by the lock. As a result, the driver has to close the door again, which causes his hands to become dirty and dusty, which is not pleasant.
And if you want to try to close the door with the glass down, you will have to deal with loud rattling of the entire window structure.
Comfort
This nuance is noted by many people when leaving their reviews. Many car owners are not satisfied with the Lada Largus Cross. For example, the front seats. Their profile is not expressed at all, as is the lateral support. Sitting is extremely uncomfortable.
About the same applies to the rear sofa. But there is another problem, and it lies in short small pillows. They do not create comfort for passengers. Many say that it would be better without them. Additional inconvenience is caused by statically fixed seat belt buckles. To ensure that passengers sit comfortably in the back, they need to try.
In addition, there is very little space in the legs. Most motorists agreed that the rear sofa should be made sliding in the future. But this applies to 5-seat versions - in models designed for seven, there is enough space.
Behavior on the road
It is impossible not to note this nuance when talking about the Largus Cross station wagon. Owner reviews list all the pros and cons in this regard in detail.
The car does not shake on the road, the ride is not bad, and it steers obediently. It rides perfectly on poor surfaces, “absorbing” a lot of unevenness. And all thanks to the improved, redesigned suspension. They say that the regular Lada Largus behaves worse on the road. Among the disadvantages, motorists include the poor placement of the rear wheels. Their developers have placed them as close as possible to the end of the body, which leads to collisions with curbs when turning. Also, many people do not like the checkpoint. In general, it does not cause any inconvenience, with the exception of the short fifth gear. At a speed of 100 km/h it shows more than 3000 rpm. If you accelerate to 120 km/h, the engine begins to roar, which causes some discomfort.
In general, sound insulation leaves much to be desired. The cabin becomes especially noisy at high speeds. But, again, in comparison with Granta, the sound insulation is on par.
Largus Cross everything about this version of the model
This version of the station wagon was first “introduced” to the public at the dawn of 2015. The all-wheel drive Largus was initially classified by the manufacturer as an all-terrain model. The all-wheel drive station wagon has been miraculously transformed into a small crossover thanks to a clever facelift. So the body of the new product acquired most of the attributes characteristic of crossovers.
Among them:
- modified bumpers that do not have a factory color;
- protective plastic body kit located around the entire perimeter of the body;
- door frames in black.
When building the modification that received all-wheel drive, AvtoVAZ engineering divisions were fully involved. The suspension has undergone significant changes. Also, the focus of attention was projected towards ground clearance, as a result of which the clearance reached an enviable figure of 170 mm, and this is at full regulatory load. This approach has really increased the off-road potential of the new product, allowing the Lada Largus 4x4 not only to confidently park at the curb, but also to demonstrate agility on potholes and other country obstacles. In addition to the specified arsenal, the developers used 16-inch wheels, “shoeing” them with high-profile tires.
In the interior, changes are minimal. The interior panels have been subjected to a so-called stylistic refresh thanks to the use of contrasting inserts on the door panels. The carpets now have edging, and the stitching on the seat material is now colored. What will happen to the 2022 model in the new body?
Engine
Reviews from the owners of Lada Largus Cross can tell a lot of interesting things about him and his work. Car enthusiasts know that under the hood of this pseudo-off-road station wagon there is a 1.6-liter 105-horsepower engine. Manufacturers presented it as a unit with excellent traction at low speeds.
Reviews from Lada Largus Cross owners make it clear that the engine for such a car is rather weak. At first, when running in a new car, it seriously “slows down”. And it takes a lot of kilometers for it to start working as expected. About 5000, according to the comments. At first, the dynamics will be greatly missed. Many believe that for a car with such a weight (1300 kg), a more powerful engine should be developed, and at least a 2-liter one.
However, in contrast to such recommendations, there are comments from other owners. Which claim that for a price of 650-700 thousand rubles. the engine is not bad. The Duster, which is considered by many to be a conditional alternative to the Cross, has a 2-liter engine, but it also costs about a million. And if you want dynamics, then you should buy a more expensive car, and with more “horses”. The Lada Largus Cross has a slightly different purpose.
Summing up
This model is one of the most affordable offerings on the market, both commercial and civilian station wagons. The car has a large number of variations, ranging from a regular station wagon to a Cross version, which significantly expands its audience coverage. Its popularity is due not only to its wide range, but also to its reliability, which has been confirmed by years of operation of units and vehicles in various climatic and road conditions. These are not sweeping words, this has been proven by many summer residents, taxi drivers and representatives of small businesses. Its closest competitors are about a third more expensive, and for the same money they offer about the same thing. It would be very interesting if the Cross version received the Lada Ride Select system and electronic differential lock. Most likely, this version would gain popularity among people living far from standard roads, and who know what snowfalls or mud are like, certainly for a reasonable price.
Consumption
Many people take its indicators into account when buying a car. What can the owner reviews about the Lada Largus Cross tell us about this nuance? There are some disadvantages. Compared to the Lada Kalina station wagon, which weighs only 80 kilograms less, the Cross consumes 1.5 liters more fuel. And in general, a new car uses a lot of fuel. 13 liters per 100 “city” kilometers, although the description states 11.5 liters. But this is at first. Over time, after running in, the consumption remains at 11 liters. And if you drive along the highway at a speed of 60-80 km, the engine will consume only 7.2 liters.
On average, if you fill a full 50-liter tank with 95-liter gasoline, you can forget about refueling for the next 600 kilometers. For many people who switched to the new Lada from older foreign cars, this expense seems unusually modest.
Equipment
In all respects, with the exception of ground clearance, the cars are absolutely identical. This model, regardless of what brand it is produced under, was designed on the B0 platform. Dimensions are equal to L-W-H: 4470-1750-1670 mm. The ground clearance varies for the regular version: 175 mm when unloaded, 150 mm when loaded; for the Cross version the ground clearance is 195 mm. The trunk volume is also very variable, from 135 liters in the seven-seater version with the seats folded down. Then 560 in a five-seater, and 2350 liters, although only with two seats. The fuel tank volume for gasoline versions is 50 liters and the gas tank volume is 90 liters for CNG versions.
The range of engines is represented by both Renault and AvtoVAZ engines. The weakest in the range is the French-developed inline four, factory code K7M. The volume of this engine, like other Largus engines, is 1.6 liters. Power is around 82 horsepower at 5500 rpm and torque of about 124 Newton meters. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle is 9.3 liters, in the city 12.3, on the highway 7.5.
The second most powerful engine is a Russian one with the same volume and number of cylinders. The VAZ engine code is 11189, essentially the same K7M, only with slightly different attachments and modified engine mounts. Its power has increased to 87 horsepower, and torque to 140 Newton meters.
The third engine is the 1.6 installed on Megan and Logan with sixteen valves and a power of 102 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 148 Newton meters at 3750 rpm. The code for this motor is K4M. Fuel consumption: about 9 liters in the city and 7 on the highway.
The fourth power plant is the VAZ-21129, essentially the same engine as was installed on the Priora, only it complies with Euro-6 emission standards. Power is 106 horsepower at 5800 rpm, torque is 148 Nm at 4200 rpm. The consumption of such an engine in the city is about 11 liters, on the highway 6.4. In the combined cycle, consumption fluctuates between 7-8 liters per hundred. The chassis is presented with an independent McPherson-type suspension with anti-roll bar at the front. At the rear there is a U-shaped beam with programmable deformation zones. The brakes are disc at the front, drum at the rear. Steering mechanism, rack and pinion, at extra cost or in more expensive trim levels with power steering.
Equipment
Considering the owner reviews with photos left about the Largus Cross car, one cannot help but pay attention to such a topic as the equipment. Most comments regarding the equipment are positive. Because the Cross has everything that AvtoVAZ can offer - from heated seats and ABS to electrical accessories, a climate system and Bluetooth.
Some car enthusiasts note with dissatisfaction the lack of an automatic transmission option, but at least they don’t have to change the oil every 30,000 km. But if this is an amateur question, then the lack of a multifunction steering wheel really upset many. And people also criticize the radio with a non-removable front panel. The Hands-free option is convenient, the speakers of the audio system are not bad, the sound is clear, there is enough bass. The signal-sensitive receiver is especially good.
But the air conditioning in the car is rather weak. If the street is not hotter than +30 °C, then it will cope with cooling the interior adequately. But with higher thermometer readings, its power is not enough for such a large space.
Suspension
One of the most important parts of the Largus Cross is its suspension. Despite its apparent simplicity, it is quite energy-intensive. At the front, as on any modern front-wheel drive car, a McPherson-type system is installed. Unlike Logan, the front suspension arms are reinforced and stamped from 3 mm metal. The rear axle is supported by a semi-independent beam, attached to the body using shock absorbers removed from springs. This configuration, under unfortunate circumstances, for example, a strong impact, allows the springs to freely shoot out from under the bottom of the car, due to which the Cross simply “lies on its belly.” But for such an effect you have to try very hard.
All step bearings are protected by boots. In addition, models with the Cross signature have reinforced shock absorbers, allowing you to load several kg more cargo than a standard station wagon. Due to the improvements made by Russian engineers, there are practically no problems with the Largus Cross suspension. The main thing is to change the CV joint boots on time, otherwise the owner of the car will have to replace the part along with the axle shafts.
Largus Cross is especially proud of its ground clearance. Unlike the standard 180 mm, the buyer of this car receives 210 mm of ground clearance. Such indicators are achieved due to the fact that the front spring cups are welded to the body 30 mm lower than those of conventional Largus. But in the rear part of the suspension you can even notice the difference with the naked eye, both between the springs and between the shock absorbers. At the same time, when empty, the rear of the car rises above the ground by a distance of up to 270 cm.
Visuality
The process of driving involves several human senses. Eyes too. Therefore, visuality plays a huge role when choosing a car. And reviews of Lada Largus Cross cars left by their owners also note this nuance.
And they say the driver's view in the outside mirror leaves much to be desired. Because the front right pillar “takes away” part of the mirror. The size of which, by the way, is already too small for a car of this size.
People also speak unflatteringly about the red backlighting of devices. The shade is too bright and hurts the eyes. The lighting should have been neutral. White, for example.
But these are the only unpleasant moments concerning the Largus Cross car in this aspect. All the disadvantages, in contrast, have advantages. Owners note the excellent optics in the Lada. With the fog lights on, the light remains bright, but if you turn on the high beams at night, you get the impression that it’s daytime outside.
Operation in winter
People also talk about this, leaving reviews about the Largus Cross car. All the disadvantages listed earlier are important to take into account, but how the car behaves in winter is one of the most important nuances. Why do many people decide to buy this car? Because for the Russian winter - a car made in the Russian Federation. But Largus is not the best option, as the owners say. The interior is heated very poorly - even at a low temperature of -10 °C, the driver and his passengers can freeze. Especially in a spacious 7-seater car. Plus, the side windows freeze, and you have to stop to thaw them. And, by the way, there is no temperature sensor.
In cold weather it doesn’t start right away, you have to wait. But not for long. Then you have to drive slowly, preferably for several kilometers, until the engine warms up completely.
Other disadvantages
Reviews from owners about the 7-seater Lada Largus Cross can reveal a lot of important information. If, for example, you need to fold the rear seats to transport any large cargo, you will have to deal with the inconvenience of an uneven floor. Because of the seat fasteners sticking out of it. And in this case, you need to contrive to load the luggage without damage.
The location of the spare wheel also leaves much to be desired. It is located on the street side, under the trunk floor. Another inconvenient thing is that the developers have placed the seat belt mounts for the middle passenger of the 2nd row - on the ceiling, right next to the trunk door. And some discomfort is caused by the dashboard, which creaks and rattles when driving.
Comparison of versions
The car has only three trim levels: Standard, Norma, Luxe. But these trim levels, with the exception of the very first, come in addition to three packages: Climat, Comfort, Prestige. The simplest Standard package is equipped with safety systems: ABS and EBD, these systems are supported by a driver airbag, Isofix child seat mounts, and the Era-Glonass emergency warning system (more recently, this system is required for installation on all cars that drive on the territory of the Russian Federation), child locks of the rear doors (allow you to block the interior door handles when the outside ones are active).
Among the functions that increase comfort and ease of control, there is a steering wheel height adjustment, a 12-volt power socket, a cabin air filter, audio preparation, roof rails and a full-fledged spare wheel. There is no add-on package available for this configuration. The second version on the list is Norma, which adds to the list of equipment, including power steering, a 60:40 folding rear seat, central locking, and front electric windows. The appearance is complemented by moldings around the perimeter of the body and bumpers in body color. There are also two option packages to choose from. The first is a simpler Climat package, it includes heated front seats and air conditioning, the second is a slightly richer Comfort package, it adds a shelf in the ceiling above the luggage compartment, and a floor covering the trunk, an audio system with two speakers (supports Bluetooth protocol, and also has USB and AUX ports).
Photos of the interior of Lada Largus 2016 (2017)
The most expensive Luxe package is equipped with a front passenger airbag, also has: an on-board computer, central locking with remote control, rear electric windows, electrically adjustable and heated rear-view mirrors, rear parking sensors, and a driver's seat with lumbar and height adjustment, the audio system receives two additional dynamics. But even the most expensive trim level has its own Prestige package of additional equipment; this package provides: leather steering wheel trim and alloy wheels with a diameter of 15 inches. The Largus Cross version is equipped with only one trim level: Luxe and no optional packages are available to it. But it has access to alloy wheels of a larger diameter and different tires, due to which it becomes even taller.
Price
And a few final words should be said about her. The new 5-seater “Cross” costs 665,000 rubles. For the version designed for seven, you will have to pay an additional 25,000 rubles. Price is one of the main reasons why people decide to buy Largus Cross. Many people really prefer a new car from AvtoVAZ to a more “mature” used foreign car. By the way, for an additional 12,000 rubles, potential buyers are offered metallic body paint.
Who is this car for?
So, these are the main points that you need to know before your planned purchase about the Lada Largus Cross car. Reviews from the owners clearly demonstrate all the disadvantages. But despite them, the car is popular. In fact, this car is ideal for people who want to buy a roomy, simple station wagon with authentic style. All the disadvantages that it has are related to the budget of the machine. And this is a functional city car, adapted for driving on light off-road conditions and transporting large cargo, which can often be found on our roads today.
