Many car enthusiasts, when deciding to buy a car, are faced with a choice between two or three models with similar characteristics. For example, those wishing to purchase the modern generation Sandero should compare it with the characteristics of the Lada, as well as its updated second version (the simple version and the Cross). It should be noted that, although Renault's products are produced in a hatchback body, a comparative analysis is best carried out by considering the parameters of the Kalina station wagon, which is more similar in size.
Dimensions
Considering which of the cars is larger, the domestic model or the relatively foreign (produced at the Moscow plant) Sandero, it is worth noting that:
- in terms of the width of the car (and, accordingly, its interior) it is better than Renault (175 cm versus 170 cm for both Ladas);
- AvtoVAZ products lead in length (4040 mm for the first Kalina, 4084 for the second and Cross, 4020 mm for the Frenchman;
- the height, again, is better for Renault (1534 versus 1500 mm for Kalina and 1510 mm for Cross).
But as for the ground clearance, it should be taken into account that these Ladas will differ depending on the gearbox: for automatic transmission the ground clearance is 145 mm, for manual transmission – 185 and 210 mm (regular station wagons and Cross, respectively). For Sandero, this figure is stable - 155 mm for any modification.
Appearance
Most car enthusiasts, after reading the name, probably had doubts.
Of course, the issue of the car’s appearance is ambiguous. Here, both Lada Kalina and Renault Logan are low-cost cars, so savings can be seen everywhere, even in their appearance. Lada Kalina is a car that became AVTOVAZ’s benchmark when releasing the first generations, comparable to foreign cars. This car is a pioneer of the domestic automobile industry, having received an unusual exterior, a power unit that is an order of magnitude higher than its predecessors and meets European standards, and expanded functionality at the level of foreign expensive cars. Therefore, the comparison is quite appropriate here. Renault Logan is a small sedan that came out of the doors of the automaker in the early 2000s. The best option for traveling to work and for personal purposes. The modification turned out to be a success, and the price remained at the budget level, which immediately raised this sedan to the TOP of purchased cars in the Russian Federation.
Moreover, both cars boast identical appearance. Lada has a more streamlined design with rounded edges, which gives it a harmonious appearance. Of course, the appearance of the VAZ is not as bright as we would like, but the car looks quite decent, which foreign cars cannot always boast of. And here you can think about what is better to choose.
In addition to the modification of the station wagon, the model range of this car, starting from the second generation, has a Cross variant, which is more adapted to difficult road conditions, has good ground clearance, and also has functional body kits near the wheel arches and practical moldings on the bumpers. This is a good indicator when compared with other similar machines.
In contrast to the Cross option, which is being designed within the walls of AVTOVAZ, the French have nothing to provide. Renault Logan is made only as a sedan; the French did not expand the model range by creating hatchbacks or station wagons. In terms of appearance, there are complaints about the first generation of sedans - it is rather rough, cropped and not entirely proportional in some elements. In this regard, when answering the question of which is better, many give preference to a domestic car.
The French are ahead in this aspect. The designers have created a truly chic and bright car that fits perfectly into the urban lifestyle; in it you will not become the subject of ridicule from passers-by or drivers. The appearance has become more presentable than it was before, and when compared with competitors.
Inside, Renault Logan has also become more comfortable and has significantly outperformed VAZ’s creation in this criterion. Although the finish of both brands is not the best, it includes elements of rough plastic, but considering the cost, everything turns out to be quite logical. And here it’s difficult to immediately understand what to choose.
Design
Renault's appearance looks quite controversial.
In fact, the car looks shortened. It also hasn't changed much since the previous generation. Lada's progress is obvious - the updated car has become better: more proportional and more modern. This was due to the massive front bumper and headlights extending onto the side of the body. The new generation of lights themselves have also increased in size at the front and rear. The radiator grille and wheel arches have become larger.
Exterior
The exterior design of the Renault Sandero is ambiguous, as is the Stepway version. The car gives the impression of being cut off. Yes, and there is no special restyling in comparison with its predecessors.
If we compare, Lada Kalina, on the contrary, is modernized with each release - the new version looks more compact and gives the impression of good functionality. This is due to the appearance of a solid bumper at the front and the merging of the side headlights with the profile of the car. The changes also affected the size of the elements of the external lighting system, the headlights and side lights increased. The radiator grille and arches above the wheel space have also increased in size. So which is better?
Salon and options
If you look inside all the cars being compared, it is easy to see that Renault has not changed much since the series began production. The same signal is on the steering column switch and the buttons for controlling the power windows are not very conveniently located on the dashboard.
Although the interior has become a little wider, and legroom has increased. However, the luggage compartment with a volume of 320 liters is still inferior - to the first Kalina by 35 liters, to the second by 41 liters.
In addition, the interior of AvtoVAZ products has improved over time - a new multimedia system and climate control have appeared. This means that while Sandero remained practically the same, Lada became better. Although, when the maximum configurations are compared, the French brand still has the advantage - but at the same time, the difference in price, reaching 100-150 thousand rubles, becomes much more noticeable. in favor of Kalina 2 and 70–120 thousand rubles. for Cross.
Who to give preference
Lada Kalina first generation: technical characteristics of the model.
Lada Kalina station wagon weight All that remains is to make the final choice. Taking into account all the considered characteristics, features and capabilities, we can summarize.
Objectively, there shouldn’t be any serious and heated debates regarding what to choose and which hatchback is better. Renault Sandero wins here. The car is still relevant, it was recently updated, production continues, and work on modernization does not stop.
Lada Kalina is a thing of the past. Today it is more logical to compare Sandero with the new model line of the domestic automaker. Here it is much more realistic to impose a serious fight. In the meantime, Renault Sandero remains the obvious favorite in this confrontation. With all due respect to the domestic auto industry.
Chassis
Thanks to the power steering, Renault Sandero gains an advantage in handling. And the electric power steering wheel of the Lada requires more effort to control the car.
As for gearboxes, the old Kalina did not have an automatic version at all - only “mechanics”. At the same time, the speed and maneuverability parameters of the car are inferior to both its new version and Renault.
The Sandero series has modifications with automatic transmissions, but, according to consumer reviews, driving with them leaves much to be desired - given the difference in price and worse dynamics. However, when cornering, Renault practically does not roll, which cannot be said about its domestic competitor.
The new Lada is equipped with a Jatco 4-speed automatic transmission taken from the Granta model, which, although it improves the car’s performance, also noticeably reduces the ground clearance, negatively affecting cross-country ability. The mechanical gearbox has also changed - the vibration of the handle has disappeared. Kalina Cross is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission.
The Sandero's brakes do their job well, and the pedal feels better than its competitors. The braking distance of the VAZ is 10–18 meters longer - tests have shown that at a speed of 100 km/h Renault will need 41.4 m to stop, Kalina - 59.4 m, an improved domestic station wagon with reinforced suspension and updated brakes - 52 m .
Specifications
For comparison, we chose front-wheel drive modifications of cars, each of which is equipped with a 1.6-liter gasoline engine. It is worth noting that this is an ideal combination for domestic motorists, and if we also add a five-speed manual transmission, then the result is an “explosive mixture”.
Both Kalina and Sandero, after the 2022 update, received modernized suspensions, the parameters of which are the most optimal for domestic road conditions. However, a test drive over rough terrain showed that Stepway feels more confident in such conditions, while Kalina has difficulty covering even simple sections of the road. But, when entering the highway, the Russian model fully reveals its potential, and over a long distance smashes its French opponent to smithereens.
The thing is that the power unit of the Lada Kalina, even taking into account the fact that it has the same volume as its counterpart, is more powerful than the Stepway engine by 5 “horses” - 87/82 horsepower. In addition, the Russian engine can provide more revolutions per minute - 3800/2800 rpm. Naturally, this directly affects the dynamics indicators. For example, to accelerate the Lada Kalina Cross from zero to hundreds, you need to spend 0.1 s less than the Stepway - 12.2 s/12.3 s. Fuel consumption in mixed mode is also lower for the Cross - 7.2/7.3 liters, which is also a big plus for the Russian model.
If we talk about wheels, 16-inch elements are installed on Stepway, and 15-inch elements are installed on Cross.
Be that as it may, in this aspect we will give the advantage to the Russian car.
conclusions
Considering that AvtoVAZ has seriously tried to make its models better to increase competitiveness in the market, the difference between its products and Sandero has decreased. At the same time, the price of the Kalina series is much lower - at least in the middle and maximum trim levels. Basic versions differ in price less.
Conclusions can be drawn as follows: with similar parameters of size, interior volume and equipment, many domestic consumers will most likely choose the Lada. Car enthusiasts who don’t mind overpaying for small advantages can afford Renault.
ASPHALT
Auto Lada Kalina hatchback: technical specifications. characteristics of Lada Kalina hatchback
Already on the highway, the Cross can pleasantly surprise those who have driven front-wheel drive Ladas. The source of joy is the pendant! Dense, energy-intensive, but not shaking. And most importantly, there is no traditional rattling noise when driving over small irregularities and other characteristic sounds of a front-wheel drive VAZ chassis. Gas-filled struts with upgraded rebound buffers, reduced internal friction and original valve settings do their job.
The upholstery doesn't bother you with squeaking either. Of course, the noise hasn’t gone away completely: the winter tires itch, the engine grumbles, the gearbox whines. The transmission noise is not very annoying, but now stands out clearly against the general quiet background.
The regular station wagon is the complete opposite. Transmission noise is minimal, largely thanks to the Jatco automatic transmission. But the suspension is talkative, like in the good old days of all front-wheel drive VAZs. It is also quite dense, but still softer than Cross. On uneven surfaces, a slight sway of the body from bow to stern is noticeable, which we did not notice in the Cross. And the interior was upset by an inexplicable clattering sound in the rear door area, although the car is brand new. Inconsistent build quality?
Logan/Sandero
The Logan/Sandero family was developed by the Romanian Dacia under the leadership of Renault as a car for “third countries”, that is, quite simple, cheap, designed for bad roads. The cars are similar in terms of the front of the cabin, equipment and road behavior. The savings are literally everywhere here. The design is simple, without frills, which allows the use of cheaper production equipment. The front windows are controlled by buttons on the center console, the rear windows are controlled at the feet of the rear passengers, and the mirror adjustments are under the parking brake. All this saves a couple of meters of wires per car, but obviously does not add convenience. In cheap trim levels, there are even no door closing handles in the usual sense. Their responsibilities are taken over by the recesses in the door trims. The seat is simple, the cushion and back are a bit short. In rich versions there is height adjustment, but it is implemented a little strangely: to raise the seat, you need to stand up from it while simultaneously pulling the lever. The steering wheel itself is not bad, but the signal button is not in its center, but at the end of the left steering column switch. There is no point in discussing the interior design; it is as simple as possible, just like the exterior. The orange lighting of the instruments is a little annoying, but I think you can get used to it. Visibility forward and to the sides is quite good, but this is only in clear weather. When it rains, the wipers fail, leaving a decent amount of uncleaned area near the left pillar. There are also problems with rear visibility: the mirrors are too small. However, thanks for that, it was even worse before.
Noise insulation is average; the engine is audible at idle, but not annoying. The steering wheel is not “empty” or weightless; it is adequate thanks to the good old hydraulic booster. Changing manual gears is easy, vibrations on the lever are moderate. When driving, the car can be described as “calm.” Even the flagship sixteen-valve engine has good thrust, but is not particularly exciting. The biggest and, most importantly, well-deserved compliment is that the suspension allows you to move on roads of any quality without problems, shaking and breakdowns. Sometimes you can even do without them: the ground clearance is decent, there is even standard engine protection. The differences between the models start with the B pillar. The rear of the “folk” Renaults is very spacious, especially in width. This applies to the hatchback to a lesser extent, since it received a base reduced by 5 centimeters. But, all the same, the formula “it’s great for two, and a third can fit in without much damage.” It's about the same story with trunks, but here Sandero has an advantage over Logan - his sofa can be folded out.
What to buy in the end?
The final choice of which is better: Lada XRay Cross or Geely Coolray will depend on the needs and wishes of the client. Basic comfort is enough for some, but savings are important. Others are willing to raise the price tag for the sake of comfort. The latter will cost more, but the level of equipment is higher and comparable to the premium class. To receive such devices for such a price is simply a gift. On the other hand, it is too early to talk about the quality and reliability of all devices, since the model appeared on the market not so long ago. Problems may arise at the stage of searching for spare parts, although the manufacturer assures that the supply of spare parts is fully regulated.
Technical specifications also indicate a successful combination of engine power and transmission from the Chinese manufacturer. The new product shows dizzying dynamics, outperforming the Russian model in terms of performance by almost two times for a minimal engine. Even the appearance of a powerful 1.8-liter engine did not allow AvtoVAZ to reach the level of its competitor. Lada X-Ray Cross is suitable for mature drivers who do not want to drive at high speed and prove their capabilities on the road. The Cross version has increased ground clearance, which significantly increases cross-country ability, providing comfortable travel to dachas or vacation spots.
In urban realities, driving a car is comfortable, regardless of the manufacturer. Engineers took care of installing sensors and auxiliary systems, although the minimal dimensions make it possible to navigate the parking lot without additional equipment. Kullray is only available with a robot, which does not inspire confidence among the Russian public, just like the CVT that appeared for the X-Ray Cross. At the same time, the second one has an undeniable advantage - an alternative manual transmission. True, it is installed only with the older engine.
Vehicle Dynamics
Technical characteristics of the Lada Kalina cross station wagon » lada.online
Lada Largus Cross handles the road quite confidently, provided that the road surface is perfectly smooth. It is advisable to use short gears and extra-urban driving for better vehicle dynamics. It is worth noting that when driving outside the city limits, the Lada Largus Cross can reach speeds of over 100 km/h, but such a trip is unlikely to be comfortable due to too high engine speeds, which will also begin to act up, and even sixth gear is of little use here will help. If, in addition, you connect a shortened gearbox, it will not save fuel consumption.
Lada Kalina Cross has rather modest characteristics. And the engine of this car is much weaker, it has a power of only 87 horsepower.
If a buyer wants to figure out which model is better to choose, just drive the Lada Kalina Cross a little. In this case, the process of driving this car will give the driver an unforgettable experience and a feeling of comfort, because this crossover is capable of reaching a speed of 100 km/h in 10 seconds. When driving off-road, all the shortcomings of the vehicle will immediately become clear, because The engine power of 106 horsepower will clearly not be enough. And if a motorist has a choice about which engine to choose for the Lada Kalina Cross, then he needs to immediately think about what it will be used for. For trips within the city, an engine with a capacity of 106 horsepower is best suited, and for driving on country roads, 87 horsepower is enough.
Considering the extremely deplorable state of Russian roads, especially unpaved ones, the condition of the car’s suspension is a serious issue. But here Lada Kalina Cross and Lada Largus Cross are in complete order with this matter. Due to the increased ground clearance, they will be able to overcome even complete off-road conditions without any problems. If we take into account new car models, the increase in ground clearance has a negative impact on their suspension and rebound during movement. At the same time, the vehicle's handling was not affected in any way.
Car appearance
Both cars look quite modern. Moreover, each of them has its own design style and attracts the attention of others in its own way.
Take the Lada XRay Cross, for example. The domestic single-volume car has a rather attractive design. At the same time, it looks brutal and is helped in this by a powerful front bumper with aluminum inserts, a body kit and moldings made of black plastic, a rear pseudo-diffuser with a dual exhaust tip, roof rails and wheels with an original design.
One can say even more - the Russian car looks almost like an SUV, however, this opinion is partly justified, because the model’s ground clearance is an impressive 215 millimeters, which allows it to overcome deep fords, snowdrifts, etc.
As for the Renault Sandero Stepway, it has much smaller body dimensions compared to its counterpart and therefore is not perceived as a “SUV” in any way.
However, the French cross-hatchback is also quite attractive and is capable of attracting interest with its stylish headlights with laconic sections of daytime running lights, an aluminum radiator lining with a large brand logo, large roof rails and, of course, a black plastic body kit, which is an indispensable attribute of an all-terrain vehicle.
The bumpers have pseudo-metallic linings, but they look rustic and are nothing special.
The French car also has a more modest ground clearance - it is 195 millimeters. However, such figures are quite enough to feel confident in snow-covered courtyards, deep streams, and so on, but you can’t expect more from a single-wheel drive single-volume vehicle...
Final verdict
Both copies being compared are an excellent option for purchase, especially with a low price threshold. It is difficult to answer unequivocally which is better. Now it has become more or less clear to potential buyers which of the two budget cars is better, Renault Logan or Lada Kalina. The machines are characterized by high reliability, and extraordinary repairs will not be needed soon if used correctly. However, each driver can say which model is better individually. But for now, French and domestic designers continue to improve the LADA Kalina and Logan, eliminating possible shortcomings and making the cars better.
Dimensions
When comparing which of the vehicles is larger, a representative of the Russian automobile industry or a Western analogue (assembled in Moscow) Renault Sandero, it should be noted that:
- in terms of width, and therefore capacity, Renault looks like a priority (1750 mm versus 1700 mm for two VAZ models);
- in terms of longitudinal dimensions, LADA is the leader (4.04 m for Kalina of the first version, 4.084 m for the second version and Cross version, 4.020 m for Renault);
- the Renault is more promising in height (1534 mm versus 1500 mm for the Lada Kalina and 1510 mm for the Cross). The comparison here is obvious.
In terms of ground clearance, comparisons must be made taking into account the different configurations of the Lada Kalina, based on the type of transmission installed: for an automatic, the ground clearance is within 14.5 cm, for a manual – 18.5 and 21 cm, respectively, for the Cross version and station wagon. Sandero has 15.5 cm for any version, including the Stepway version.
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Renault Sander or Lada Kalina - what to choose?
Sandero is an independent model, created on the Logan platform and has no other body type than a hatchback.
Kalina is available in hatchback and station wagon body styles; the sedan has been discontinued. Kalina's hatchback and station wagon bodies are of different lengths and the station wagon is closer to the Sandero. Therefore, it would be more correct to compare which is better, Sandero or Kalina, with the Kalina station wagon, however, if you do not agree with this, then the difference between the Kalina hatchback and station wagon lies, essentially, in the trunk volume, 250 and 360 liters, respectively .
Reliability. It is this parameter that causes numerous disputes when comparing foreign cars and domestic cars; the arguments of both sides sound convincing. As in the case of comparing Logan and Priora, we can say that Sandero will be more reliable than Kalina, but not to such an extent that its advantage is overwhelming, regardless of price. Yes, Sandero is more reliable than Kalina and more reliable by about the same amount as it is more expensive, especially since the quality of Kalina is gradually increasing.
Interior dimensions. The Sandero's interior is a little more spacious than the Kalina's, but its finishing is simpler. The Kalina's trunk is slightly larger, 320 and 360 liters respectively; in terms of interior transformation capabilities, the cars are approximately equal, so that it is quite difficult to single out the best here. A universal recommendation is to come to a car dealership and determine for yourself which car has a better interior, Sandero or Kalina.
The engines installed on cars are approximately equal in capabilities. The power of Kalina engines ranges from 80 hp to 98 hp. The Sandero is equipped with engines from 74 hp to 103 hp. Since the masses of the cars are almost equal, we can say that there is no better one here, although Kalina is a little more economical.
Ride quality. In terms of driving performance, the Sandero will still be better than the Kalina, this mainly concerns the balance of the suspension. If it is quite difficult to select which of them is better based on the energy intensity of the suspension, then in terms of stability and controllability Sandero is definitely better than Kalina. The main disadvantage of Kalina is that the steering wheel is too light and empty. The light steering is good in parking lots, but in traffic it doesn’t show itself in the best way.
Options and prices. Naturally, in terms of price, Kalina is definitely better than Sandero. Prices for Kalina start at approximately 280 thousand rubles. and up to 400 tr. Prices for Sandero start from 337 tr. and end at around 500 tr. In general, for the offered price, Kalina’s equipment is noticeably richer, however, Sandero can offer an automatic transmission. BR> In addition, Sandero has an interesting “off-road” configuration - Stepway, which immediately gives it an advantage, at least in freedom of choice. True, this “all-terrain vehicle” has a drive on only one axle.
An automatic transmission for Kalina is only being planned, but an SUV based on Kalina was developed and even prepared for release, but, like all good things, it was happily forgotten. Therefore, we can say that in terms of the wealth of additional equipment Kalina is better, and Sandero takes its toll with an automatic transmission and Stepway.
But in general, the price level reflects the quality of the cars. If you want a more reliable and balanced car, then Sandero is better. If you want better equipment and a lower price, Kalina is better. But overall, both cars are worthy of their price.
Which model should you choose?
If we compare the Lada Kalina Cross and Lada Largus Cross, then the first car is most suitable for a young family. Experts came to this conclusion based on the car’s modest price and striking appearance. If you look at the Lada Largus Cross, then this car is an ideal option for those who like to go to the country and for large families, because it has good capacity.
Of course, one cannot say that any model is an order of magnitude superior to its competitor. Both cars have unique characteristics and have both advantages and disadvantages. If the cross-country ability of vehicles is important, then, alas, here the products of the Togliatti plant will be equally powerless. In particular, the cars lack cross-axle differential locks.
Salon Kalina Cross
If the buyer has serious doubts about the advisability of purchasing a Lada Kalina Cross or Lada Largus Cross, then they need to be dispelled, because cars actually have many advantages. The plastic body kit and high ground clearance can definitely be attributed to the advantages of these models. Also one of the advantages is excellent quality tires. For example, Lada Kalina Cross has Pirelli tires, and Lada Largus Cross has Continental tires. The finishing of the cars will also be interesting, which will definitely appeal to the driver. The increased ground clearance of these crossovers will not cost much, only 30 thousand rubles more than the previous version, but it is worth it.
Who to give preference
All that remains is to make the final choice. Taking into account all the considered characteristics, features and capabilities, we can summarize.
Objectively, there shouldn’t be any serious and heated debates regarding what to choose and which hatchback is better. Renault Sandero wins here. The car is still relevant, it was recently updated, production continues, and work on modernization does not stop.
Lada Kalina is a thing of the past. Today it is more logical to compare Sandero with the new model line of the domestic automaker. Here it is much more realistic to impose a serious fight. In the meantime, Renault Sandero remains the obvious favorite in this confrontation. With all due respect to the domestic auto industry.
