Russian automaker AvtoVAZ has updated the Lada Niva SUV, which has been soldering on in some markets for almost half a century. The Lada Niva is still the same 3.7-metre-long SUV with a three-door body style and has continued without major sheet metal changes since its debut in 1977. It is currently built by Lada West Togliatti, an AvtoVAZ subsidiary that was built in collaboration with General Motors.
What’s new on the Lada Niva?
The Lada Niva has received periodic cosmetic and mechanical updates during its lifetime as the SUV was also sold in some European markets. However, the sanctions imposed as an aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine war meant sales of the Lada Niva were curtailed to the Russian market alone. Additionally, when vehicle assembly resumed in 2022, AvtoVAZ removed quite a few important safety-related and other mechanical components like airbags from the SUV due to short or no supply.
Lada Niva: 47 Years of Rugged Excellence and Euro 5 Upgrade
Enduring Legacy since 1977
The Made-in-Russia SUV has been a symbol of strength and reliability for an impressive 47 years, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts.
Classic Three-Door Body Style
Retaining its timeless charm, the Lada Niva continues to boast a distinctive three-door body style, adding a touch of nostalgia to its enduring design.
Upgraded with Euro 5 Engine
Embracing modern standards, the Lada Niva receives an upgrade with a Euro 5 engine, enhancing performance, fuel efficiency, and environmental friendliness.
Unparalleled Off-Road Prowess
Known for its off-road capabilities, the Lada Niva remains a formidable choice for adventurers, offering reliability and robustness on various terrains.
Consistent Evolution
Despite its long history, the Lada Niva showcases a commitment to evolution, ensuring it remains relevant and competitive in the ever-changing automotive landscape.
Time-Tested Popularity
With its enduring appeal, the Lada Niva has maintained popularity over the years, attracting a dedicated fan base that appreciates its unique blend of vintage charm and modern enhancements.
Explore the rich history and the latest upgrades of the Lada Niva, a true testament to its enduring legacy and commitment to staying ahead in the automotive world.
But the automaker has now announced that the anti-lock braking system (ABS) os now back on the Lada Niva, in addition to an updated engine that meets Euro 5 emissions regulations. These emissions norms have been around globally since 2009, so it's already outdated. The current BS6 emissions standards came into effect overseas in 2014 and since April 2020 in India. Meanwhile, Euro 7 emissions standards are expected to be enforced around 2025. Apart from sharing the Euro 5 engine upgrade, there are no details provided on its displacement or type. Due to the shortage of components, AvtoVAZ has also incorporated engines from Chinese brands in the Lada Niva for a short period, however, more details remain elusive.
The Lada Niva was never sold in India, but there have been some sightings of a few units that have been private imports. Apart from the Niva, another Russian SUV that's popular in India is the UAZ-469, which has also served the Indian armed forces. We recently got a chance to drive it in India. . The Niva also gets an updated engine that now meets Euro 5 regulations. The standard has been around since 2009, so it's immensely outdated. Lest we forget Euro 6 was implemented in 2014, with Euro 7 to follow around 2025. When production resumed last year and up until now, the go-anywhere Lada was powered by an engine that met the Euro 2 standard, which was introduced in 1996.
Go for a high-end trim level of the Niva Travel and you'll get a lada goodies: cruise control (with speed limiter), a trip computer, a fully backlit instrument cluster, and two-tone alloy wheels. ESP is also returning later this month, according to Russian magazine Auto Pro News. Production of both models with the 2024 MY updates has already commenced. As one would expect, the asking price sees a significant increase. Previously, the Lada Niva Legend started at 829 900 rubles (,140 at current exchange rates) but the cheapest one is now 927,500 rubles (,200). The more modern Niva Travel used to be 1,198,900 rubles (,200) and it now kicks off at 1,215,000 rubles (,400). AvtoVAZ intended to launch an all-new Niva in collaboration with Renault. It unveiled a concept car back in 2018 but the future looks uncertain considering Renault sold its stake in AvtoVAZ in May 2022.