Upgrades Coming To The Russian Lada Niva
by AutoExpert | 5 December, 2023
Despite its inception in 1977, Lada Niva continues its production, and there's even a 2024 update in the works. AvtoVAZ, the manufacturer, has reintroduced anti-lock brakes, a feature that was discontinued due to sanctions against Russia.
Upon resuming assembly in mid-2022, the Niva omitted airbags, ABS, and other standard features. Now, for the 2024 models, anti-lock brakes make a return for both the classic Niva Legend and the Niva Travel.
As a reminder, Niva Travel was originally introduced as the VAZ-2123 in 1998 and later became the Chevrolet Niva in 2003. After the GM-AvtoVAZ collaboration ended in 2020, the SUV took on the name Niva Travel. The Niva now sports an updated engine meeting Euro 5 standards, despite Euro 6 being established in 2014 and Euro 7 being scheduled for 2025.
Last year, production resumed with an engine conforming to the Euro 2 standard from 1996. Opt for a high-end trim level of the Niva Travel, and you'll enjoy added features like cruise control, a trip computer, a fully backlit instrument cluster, and two-tone alloy wheels. According to the Russian magazine Auto Pro News, ESP will likely return later this month.
Production for both models with the 2024 updates is already underway. As anticipated, the price sees a notable increase. The Lada Niva Legend, previously starting at 829,900 rubles ($9,140), now begins at 927,500 rubles ($10,200). The more modern Niva Travel now starts at 1,215,000 rubles ($13,400). AvtoVAZ had plans to collaborate with Renault on an all-new 2024 Niva, as unveiled in a 2018 concept. However, with Renault selling its stake in AvtoVAZ in May 2022, the future of this venture remains uncertain.