Lada Kalina Cross - the main differences from the regular Kalina

In this post, I collected available information about the differences between Kalina Cross and its closest relative - Kalina Universal in the Norma configuration.

As you will see from the table, something was not reported to Cross, but something was added. Now you can figure out for yourself whether it’s worth overpaying 25 thousand for Cross.

In addition, from various reviews we were able to glean the following information about the changes made to the Cross version (relative to the Universal):

11) The Cross has different seats - they have different upholstery, cushion density, side support bolsters and even different headrests. (So ​​be careful when purchasing cases)

12) Longer shock-absorbing struts were used (based on gas-filled shock absorbers of the 21928 family).

13) The springs on the Cross are the same as on a regular station wagon, but their support cups are shifted by 16 mm.

14) At the same time, to compensate for the increased center of gravity, the wheel track was increased by 4 mm by changing the offset of the disks.

15) Cross has an iron “boot” under the engine crankcase - thin, it’s better to put something like a sheriff on the VAZ-2111 if you plan to attack “off-road”. A simple station wagon does not have protection (in automatic transmission versions) or has a plastic boot. (I haven’t found any official confirmation, so I’m waiting for your feedback).

But it’s also worth remembering that the simple Station Wagon is now offered in the “Lux” version for 479,700 rubles, and there are even more good options:

— Power windows for rear doors; — Electric drive and heated exterior mirrors; — Adjustable driver's seat height; — Multimedia system (7" display with TouchScreen, FM, USB, SD card, Bluetooth, Hands free), external antenna, 4 speakers; — Cast wheels 15"; - Fog lights.

And this is already very good.

After all, the dealer offers to install foglights on the Cross for 14,000 rubles (prices including labor). Install electrically adjustable mirrors - another 14,000 rubles. The absence of rear electric windows in the cross is the easiest to cope with - after all, there is a climate, which means there is no reason to open the windows.

For myself, I decided that these new Crosses are worth the requested 25 thousand (relative to the station wagon in Norma) and I don’t regret it at all.

Many fans of the AvtoVAZ model series know that the Kalina Cross was created on the basis of the Kalina 2 station wagon. Car enthusiasts are still arguing whether this was a rational decision, and how much the two cars differ from each other. To be honest, the appearance of the VAZ-21946 (aka Kalina Cross) immediately shows that the car is clearly an all-terrain vehicle. But is that really where the differences end? Let's look into this issue by comparing: Kalina 2 and Kalina Cross.

Specifications

The first place to start comparing two cars is, of course, the main technical characteristics. In this regard, Lada Kalina 2 and Kalina Cross are very similar in some aspects of consideration.

The engines, components and their gearboxes are approximately the same, the differences here are not significant:

• Kalina 2: VAZ-11186 (87 hp, 8-valve, 1.6 l) is equipped with only manual transmission 5; VAZ-21126 (98 hp, 16-valve, 1.6 l) and VAZ-21127 (106 hp, 16-valve, 1.6 l) are equipped with both manual transmission-5 and automatic transmission-4 (optional).
• Kalina Cross: VAZ-11186 (87 hp, 8-valve, 1.6 l) is equipped with only manual transmission 5; VAZ-21127 (106 hp, 16-valve, 1.6 l) is equipped with both manual transmission-5 and manual transmission-5 (works) - also to choose from.

As a result, consumption, maximum speed and acceleration to 100 km/h are approximately equal; the Cross may have a slight advantage of a slight 0.1-0.3 seconds. Data characteristics:

• acceleration to “hundreds”: 11.2-13.7 seconds;
• consumption per 100 km: combined cycle - 6.7-7.7 liters;
• maximum speed: 167-177 km/h.

Both cars fully comply with EURO-4 environmental standards.

However, significant changes to the Kalina Cross from the “station wagon” lie in a heavily rebuilt suspension/transmission, for example:

• strengthened anti-roll bars;
• the gear ratio of the main transmission pair has been increased (from 3.7 for the station wagon to 3.9 for the Cross);
• increased ground clearance;
• shock absorbers were modernized;
• Many suspension components have been strengthened, for example, the rear beam.

In other nodes, the two models are completely identical and have no differences.

Prices for all LADA cars

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Dimensions and exterior

Important parameters in comparing two cars are size and appearance. It is impossible to single out something in them and say that this is the only correct conclusion, since different people have individual opinions on this matter: some need a larger car, some need a smaller one, not to mention the exterior. However, it would be useful to present these characteristics.

So, the dimensions of Kalina 2 and Kalina Cross are as follows:

• length: 4084 and 4104 mm;
• width: 1700 and 1700 mm;
• height: 1504 and 1560 mm;
• wheelbase: 2476 and 2476;
• ground clearance: 185 and 208 mm;
• weight: 1075-1160 and 1125-1160 kg.

There is no need to be an expert here - Cross is slightly larger than his “comrade”. The main thing worth highlighting here is the ground clearance, increased by as much as 23 mm. Kalina Cross will be a clear leader in cross-country ability, which will be discussed below.

Interior

The design of the cars inside, despite their general similarity, is certainly the most “copied” aspect of all Kalinas. The main differences between the Cross and the “station wagon” are such features as:

• completely redesigned seats, more sporty in nature (many note that they are also more comfortable);
• in some places, the reinforced design of the fastenings of the entire upholstery (for example, on the arches);
• in cars of bright orange color there are inserts of the same color on seats, doors, etc., in more restrained colors the bright inserts are replaced with gray ones.

The remaining elements of the interior are completely similar; you will not find any innovations, except for the branded inserts of the “Cross” name.

The trunk volume has not changed - 355-361 liters in the stock position and 670 with the seats folded. By the way, the tank capacity also remained the same – 50 liters. The decoration is made of standard materials for VAZ: plastic and fabric.

Despite the fact that the Cross has been slightly reworked in the interior, the interior is almost the same. So in this aspect, choosing between cars is pointless.

Design

Lada Kalina Cross 2019-2020 in a new body, of course, with a relatively new prefix, since it essentially has not changed since 2014. And judging by the available news, it is not possible to see any update to the cross-country version of Kalina in the future.

Therefore, in our minds there will only remain the memory of a slightly “dressed up” Lada Kalina in a plastic body kit along the contour of the sills, wings, arches, bumpers, windows, and radiator grille. Kalina Cross in the photo without body kit is a simple “civilian” version, due to additional protective plastic, which has become only a little more aggressive and “toothy”.

Exterior

Photos of the new Lada Kalina Cross indicate its great similarity with the universal version of the regular Kalina. The hatchback differs mainly in the structure of the optics, rear bumper, and trunk lid.

The standard body kits are retained; here they chose to use not only newfangled matte plastic, but also standard metal along the contour of the bumpers. Someone claims that this is chrome, but excuse me, this is still a budget class, especially domestically produced, what kind of chrome can we be talking about. Regular painted aluminum and nothing more.

The 2019-2020 Kalina Cross in the new body remains streamlined, it’s not for nothing that Kalina from the entire Lad family has more sporty and elegant contours. Rolled-over pillars improve aerodynamic performance, along with the beveled edges of the front bumper, simulating “gills”.

Roof rails, high overhangs, reliable protection of bumpers and sills already speak of a certain off-road potential, which, with effort, can be developed even with an unprepared car.

Interior

The new Lada Kalina in the Cross version made quite an impression in terms of equipment and interior design. Serious and eye-catching changes have taken place here, primarily affecting the perception of the car. By analogy with the “civilian” versions, the same sets of equipment for the multimedia system and “climate” were introduced. The dashboard has a similar shape and equipment. The steering column is standard in shape, also without a choice of keys and options.

But, the most important thing that characterizes the difference between the Lada Kalina “civilian” and the Lada Kalina Cross 2019-2020 from the photo is the presence of catchy color inserts. Bright decorative “cuts” of yellow and orange colors make the interior brighter and more attractive.

By the way, I would like to note one point regarding the seating and comfort of passengers. Despite the manufacturer's statement, nothing has been fundamentally changed in the seats. Amorphous chairs both in front and a sofa in the back, free of any support or comfort. Over long distances it will be difficult primarily for the rear passengers.

The luggage compartment of the cross version is quite modest, for such a segment, does not exceed 355 liters in the stowed position. This is one of the worst indicators in the class. With the rear backrests folded, it is possible to expand the space to 670 liters. But, you need to understand that in any case we will not get a level area and correct geometric shapes.

Patency

Increased throughput parameters – that’s what Kalina Cross was created for. Without any doubt, the cross-country ability of this car is higher than that of a station wagon. As noted earlier, the ground clearance of Kalina Cross is 23 mm higher, this result was achieved thanks to:

• increase in the suspension itself - plus 13-17 mm;
• installation of 15-inch disks, instead of 14-inch ones - plus 5-8 mm.

Experienced drivers are in no hurry to rejoice at the increased ground clearance, because the higher the car, the less stable it is. Yes, this is true, but that is why the suspension was strengthened and the only correct center of gravity was set. It is worth understanding that Kalina Cross is not an SUV, but an all-terrain station wagon, aimed at overcoming average off-road conditions. It copes with its task quite well, judging by the reviews of the owners.

In addition, the increased ground clearance reduces the risk of sitting on the “bottom”, which happens all the time in Russian rough terrain. Definitely, Kalina Cross has higher cross-country ability.

Lada Kalina Cross - differences in the interior from the regular Kalina

One of the modifications of the Lada Kalina Cross all-terrain station wagon is equipped with seat upholstery with orange accents. These orange accents also appear on the door panels, steering wheel and air vents. In the cabin you can find signs with the name of the Lada Kalina Cross model. The front seats in the all-terrain station wagon differ from the regular model. They have more pronounced lumbar and lateral support.

In addition, the all-terrain station wagon model features improved sound insulation. For this purpose, the power unit supports were even changed. The steering rack received new mounts, which reduced vibration in the cabin and on the steering wheel. In terms of equipment, the regular Lada Kalina outperforms the all-terrain station wagon. So the Lada Kalina Cross does not have a multimedia system with navigation and a rear view camera.

Options

Almost the main guideline for many people when choosing a particular car is the availability of functional equipment, that is, useful options. Everyone knows that this aspect depends on the selected configuration. How are Kalina 2 and Cross doing with them?

When choosing a basic configuration, a station wagon helps you save a significant amount, since it includes a set of the most necessary options:

• electric power steering;
• adjustable seat belts;
• electric window lifts and more.

More “cool” options are present in the Norma and Lux ​​trim levels; there are quite a lot of them and you can get acquainted with them at the official dealer. However, in choosing a certain configuration, as noted earlier, Kalina 2 is much better. Due to what? Due to a more flexible selection of add-ons, since using various add-ons. packages, you can choose whatever your heart desires. If we take each addition and each configuration as a separate configuration option, then there are as many as 7 of them, versus 2 for Kalina Cross. A significant advantage, right?

The cost of the cars is approximately equal: from 450,000 rubles to 600,000. However, Kalina Cross has a slightly lower limit and is 550,000 in the maximum configuration. This is due to the fact that in the maximum Luxury the station wagon has an automatic transmission, instead of the cheaper “robot” of its brother.

What exactly did Mattin create?

English designer Steve Mattin is a leading specialist of the LADA brand, having previously collaborated with foreign companies. Under his leadership, promising projects were developed, such as X-Ray and LADA Vesta. If we talk about the interior of Kalina Cross, here the only element that belongs to the English master is the appearance of the standard radio. By the way, a similar device appeared in the available “Grant” and “second Kalin” trim levels.

Crossovers produced with an 87-horsepower and a more powerful engine will receive the same set of options. And in a configuration more expensive than the Norma, we will see a push-button radio, and not a media center with an LCD screen.

The interior elements of the crossover are designed in the same style, they correspond to each other and form a coherent composition. The color of the inserts corresponding to the enamel called “Orange” will be used in the design for the first time. Then other options may appear, although there are serious doubts about this.

Sitting in the driver's seat, you can see in front of you a dashboard equipped with an on-board computer. There are no distractions like bright displays or shiny chrome dials. However, the driver can quickly change the station on the radio, select the climate control mode, and turn on the heated seats. And the presence of unoccupied indicator buttons located above the cigarette lighter makes it possible to add a new option.

Results

Comparison is a subjective concept, so it is irrational to give a definite answer to the question Kalina Cross or Kalina 2. Based on the information presented above, everyone can draw a certain conclusion for themselves. The only thing that can be stated objectively is that Kalina is good both in the city and off-road, but Kalina 2 in a station wagon is a more urban, parquet car, but more convenient in terms of choice. Decide for yourself what is your priority. Good luck on the roads!

Comparison of clearance of Kalina 2 and Cross:

The appearance of the VAZ-21946 station wagon (this) immediately makes it clear: it is created not only for driving on asphalt. It’s a long way from a full-fledged all-terrain vehicle, but it should wipe the nose of its passenger cars! So why not compare it with the regular VAZ-2194 station wagon?

LADA > Kalina

Photos of the salon

Let us remind you that Kalina with a black roof does not have fog lights, but you can install them yourself. In addition, you can modify the trunk of the station wagon so that the lid opens automatically.

Keywords: Lada Kalina Cross

ASPHALT

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?

Features of controlling the Kalina Cross model

Normal driving on a flat road can give the driver a feeling of pleasure. This was made possible thanks to a modified suspension. The characteristic clanking sounds when going over bumps are now a thing of the past, although the regular Kalina is still characterized by extraneous sounds from the chassis, which makes it different from the Cross for the worse.

The only drawback that the manufacturer has to correct is the “humming” standard tires. In both versions of Kalina, the noise of tires on the road surface at speed can quickly cause discomfort to the driver.

During testing, the “Cross” suspension showed its elasticity, as evidenced by the absence of swings. Only some clattering noises were occasionally heard from the stern door. What was it? Perhaps a minor assembly flaw, which is unacceptable for crossovers.

On icy surfaces, the Cross brakes quite loudly. We cannot remain silent about ABS, since the correct configuration of this system allows you to maintain confident control not only when driving uphill, but also when descending from an incline.

Also a good addition to the safety complex was the electronic system responsible for stabilizing movement on slippery surfaces. This is a significant difference between the “cross” performance. The electronics skillfully “restrain” the driver from sudden maneuvers or switching, the purpose of which is to “derail” the car from the given trajectory.

The question of which modification has the best and most predictable behavior when driving in snow no longer requires a detailed answer. Of course Cross! The above modification preferences can quite clearly emphasize all the advantages. When driving in the snow, the stones under its cover are unlikely to be able to harm the body, since its lower perimeter is reliably protected with black plastic linings. If we compare, the regular version of Kalina is not able to cope with snow obstacles so confidently, so once again it loses the championship to Cross.

If we compare it with other models, then this car is quite capable of meeting the basic criteria for models in the budget segment. During slipping, the electronics do not completely “strangle” the engine, thereby giving it a chance to “break through” the “snow captivity” that suddenly appears on the way.

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