Niva Urban is the latest modification of the well-known SUV from the domestic company Lada. The first copies of this model left the factory assembly line in 2014, at the same time the car became available to potential buyers. After two years, it is already possible to draw the first conclusions about the advantages and disadvantages of the model, and we will talk about them in this article.
General features Niva Urban
Already from the name of the car it follows that this version of the Niva is something unusual. The car, firmly entrenched in the minds of our compatriots as an ideal option for off-road trips, mud and the famous Russian asphalt, suddenly gets the definition of "Urban", i.e. "urban".
Indeed, even the design of the new Niva, streamlined and less aggressive, equipped with a redesigned radiator grille and 16 mm rims, hints at the possibility of its use as a city car. 
In addition, representatives of the AvtoVAZ company listened to the opinion of drivers and made some adjustments to the configuration of the car, making it more comfortable and suitable for many hours of driving through traffic jams in the metropolis. Moreover, this year it is planned to redesign the main controls, which is currently being tested at manufacturing plants.
Thus, Niva Urban was originally supposed to become new page in the history of Russian SUVs. Let's see how successfully we managed to implement this concept by identifying the main advantages and disadvantages of the car. 
Advantages of the model
As we have already defined above, Niva Urban is a kind of urban SUV. Therefore, the creators decided to equip it with amenities that are mandatory for other city-class cars. They became:
- Air conditioner.
- Power window.
- Electric drive.
An addition to the air conditioner are glasses with an athermal effect, which allow you to keep cool inside the car for a longer time. 
We have already mentioned the new design above, as an advantage, we note that it has changed not only outside, but also in the cabin, the manufacturer also proposed a new one for the Niva, more comfortable shape steering wheel. In addition, it became possible to purchase a model with a metallic color scheme, which was not previously used for this type of Lada product.
Also, the SUV has a wider field of view. This was achieved by increasing the cleaning zone rear window and installation of heating on the mirrors, which is especially convenient in winter.
Main disadvantages
The main disadvantage of Niva Urban is the problem of all SUVs: impressive fuel consumption. So, the indicator of gasoline consumption (the minimum allowable brand is 95) while driving around the city is 12.1, and when traveling outside the city - 8.3. Added to this is the general weakness of the engine, which does not simultaneously pull the movement and the operation of the air conditioner.
In fairness, it is worth noting that the manufacturer intends to fix errors during 2016 (we have already mentioned the upcoming revisions of controls above). So, it is planned to bring a separate differential lock button, which, of course, will greatly simplify everything. The downshift and transfer case will also be completely removed. All this will reduce the noise level, which is now quite high in Niva Urban (and this is unacceptable for a city car), and get rid of two extra control levers in the cabin. It remains to be hoped that these developments will be implemented on time and successfully pass all the tests.
And the last (probably the most significant) minus of Niva Urban - unreasonably high price. Yes, the model has been modernized, a lot of things have appeared in it, but, alas, its own almost 500,000 rubles she's not worth it. This is the reason for such a low sales rate, which is currently observed.
Who is Niva Urban suitable for?
Of course, the main category of Niva buyers, even if modernized, are all the same summer residents, hunters, villagers and other car owners who often find themselves in off-road conditions. Now they have a chance to go there in a car with a higher level of comfort. Perhaps this model will attract young people due to the redesigned design, it may well become the first SUV for a young car enthusiast who cannot afford foreign cars in this category yet.
21.12.2016
Good day! Initially, in this review it was planned to talk about all the shortcomings and frank jambs that are inherent in the modern Lada Niva. But, on reflection, I realized that this makes no sense, well, really, as if you all do not know about the quality of cars that are produced at AvtoVAZ factories. The paint quality is terrible, so, for example, the hood can only be opened on a clean car, otherwise, you risk damaging paintwork. Headlights can crack from the fact that water gets on them, the generator, for example, is located so low that in order to kill it, it is enough to drive into a slight impassability. And, about such a concept as ergonomics, AvtoVAZ learned only a couple of years ago, but, unfortunately, this did not affect Niva. They decided to compensate for all the miscalculations at Niva Urban, but, here, too, they managed to make the cup holder so that it could only be used after turning on the lower gear range. Unfortunately, this list can be continued for a very long time, since there is no element in Vaz Niva that does not have its own drawback.
I will not list all the shortcomings of the car, and not because I am a big fan of the Niva or I am paid for PR of this model, but because the quality of the car corresponds to its price. To our great disappointment, there is no other new car on the domestic market with a price tag of up to 8000 USD, and even to be able to crawl through the swamp, like a solid SUV. Many may say that for this money you can take a good used SUV or crossover, and I completely agree with you, but we are talking about a new car. And if we talk about a used Niva, then you can take it in good condition for 2000-3000 USD, and it will be practically in no way inferior to the new Niva. Everything will also rattle the interior and howl the engine, the dynamic performance will not change much - the same 17-19 seconds of acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h, depending on the type installed rubber. And off-road, the used Niva will not be much inferior to the new one.
Therefore, today we will talk about who this machine is intended for and what it is capable of. Looking ahead, I want to say that she is capable of a lot, and today she can give odds to any modern crossover. 
What is the new Lada Niva 4×4 capable of?
However, this is not surprising, despite the fact that Niva does not have frame structure body, the manufacturer managed to equip the car with a solid rear axle, independent front suspension with permanent all-wheel drive, reduction gears and the ability to lock the center differential with 50/50 torque distribution. Vaz Niva is equipped with an ancient, by today's standards, naturally aspirated 1.7-liter engine, which produces only (83 hp) at 128 Nm of torque. And, even with him, the Niva is able to overcome very difficult sections of the road and a deep ford, and on a broken primer the car feels like a "fish in water". In cases where the Niva does not have enough engine power, and frankly, it does not go very tight (for example, on a long climb), you can always take acceleration, but more, and drive on. Fortunately, suspension and geometry allows.
The approach angle is fantastic, for a production car, 40 degrees, the exit angle is 32, the ramp is 24, and this despite the fact that ground clearance does not exceed 220 mm. It is worth noting that the lowest point (210 mm) is under the gearbox rear axle, does not inspire confidence and crankcase protection. If we talk about comfort, then we have to admit that it shakes well in Niva, but in order to break through the suspension, you need to try very hard. According to these indicators, only Suzuki Jimny and the three-door "" can compete with Niva. But it is worth noting that both cars are full-fledged frame all-terrain vehicles, and their market price is comparable to the Niv herd.
As for the Niva's ability to overcome water obstacles, a couple of points should be noted here. Firstly, the air intake is at the level of the right headlight and goes forward, it is worth noting that the manufacturer took into account the fact that the car will “float” and protected the air intake with plastic, but not so well that you could not think about it. If you fool around and make a big wave, then it will not be difficult to fill the engine, therefore, many owners solve this problem by installing a snorkel. This solution allows you to forget not only about a possible water hammer, but also problems associated with electronics, since electronic blocks car controls are hidden in the cabin. Therefore, we can safely say that Niva is well prepared for water procedures. The only thing to keep in mind is that cabin filter and the stove fan is under the windshield, so diving very deep is not worth it.
Salon
By the way, if the interior is flooded, then this is not such a big problem, the fact is that the manufacturer provided for this option and selected the appropriate interior trim materials, and also made a fairly large number of drains, so, if desired, the interior can even be washed with Karcher. 
To take or not to take?
If you talk about which Niva is better to buy, then the answer will be unambiguous - the usual Niva or Niva Elbrus, but if you plan to constantly knead the dirt, then in no case take the Niva Urban. Because Niva Urban is like an AMG Gelendvagen, that is, an SUV that really can, but which you should not drive off the asphalt. Niva Urban has the same problems as Gelik, namely road tires, large overhangs and fragile bumpers. Firstly, all this greatly worsens the geometric cross-country ability, and secondly, as for an SUV, this is done stupidly.
So, for example, if you hook a bump inside bumper, then it, like a bucket, will cling to an obstacle and will be “torn” or “torn off”. Also, on the Urban version, instead of integrated lugs, as on conventional modern cars, it is necessary to screw the hook. On the one hand, it is convenient: thanks to the high location, you do not have to crawl under the car and get dirty once again, catching the cable. But, at the same time, only two attachment points remain for the cable instead of four, which is not always convenient. However, if you are seriously going to knead the dirt on the Niva, then you need to strengthen the fastenings in any case, otherwise you risk “tearing” your pet in the truest sense of the word.
Outcome.
The general conclusion on the Niva can be drawn as follows: despite all the improvements and rebranding, this car is obsolete, but, unfortunately, it simply has no alternatives. And, if you need a car for a village or other places where many have heard about the presence of normal roads only from TV, then the best option just can't be found. For hunters, fishermen and other outdoor enthusiasts more suitable five-door Niva. But the three-door will be ideal option for off-road riding. If the budget allows, you can turn your attention to, it is 1500 USD more expensive, but it is just as comfortable, however, due to the greater weight, the lack of engine power is even more felt there.
Lada 4 × 4 Urban - is a modernized version of the legendary Lada 2121, which is still called NIVA in the common people. The main differences from the classic model are the presence of plastic bumpers, an upgraded suspension, air conditioning and full power accessories, which include electric mirrors and power windows. Although this car has been produced not so long ago, but to highlight a few problem areas at present, it is possible to know about which future owners need to know before buying this car.
Weaknesses of Niva Urban
- Transmission;
- Transfer case;
- Oil seals and cardan cross.
Now more….
Since the Lada 4×4 Urban is an urban variation of the classic NIVA, many problems for these cars are the same:
Front fenders.
This vehicle does not have high corrosion resistance, and after a couple of years, quite serious corrosion may appear on the front fenders, near the headlights. In order to check the condition of the wings, you need to take a flashlight with you and properly inspect their inner surface. To be sure, you can touch the metal with your hand.
If fresh wheel arch liners were put on the car, then most likely they tried to close the pockets of rust in such a simple way.
Transmission.
One of the weakest points of this SUV. The gearbox is checked while the car is moving. If the speeds turn on with a creak and rattle or there are other unpleasant sounds, then this is probably the gearbox is excessively worn out due to untimely Maintenance and this in turn will require costly repairs.
Transfer case.
It is imperative to check how easily the differential lock is engaged. If, while driving with the lock engaged, a strong vibration or a rattle is heard, then the car needs urgent repairs. But if a howl is heard while driving, then this is quite natural for these cars.
Oil seals and crosspiece cardan shaft.
Do not forget that the Lada 4 × 4 Urban has an impressive off-road potential, so the seals and CV joints have not disappeared. Don't expect them to be perfectly clean. The main thing is that the seals are physically intact, without cracks and smudges. The cross of the cardan shaft must also be intact, without visible damage. All this can be checked by driving the car into the simplest garage pit.
It is also worth mentioning that you should avoid buying lifted cars or cars with installed power bumpers. Such design changes seriously reduce the resource of the car and leave no doubt that NIVA was used in severe off-road conditions.
The main disadvantages of LADA 4×4 Urban
- Weak sound insulation;
- Ergonomic miscalculations;
- In some cars, downshifting is difficult;
- Cheap interior plastic for a car of this price;
- Poor-quality plastic elements of the car;
- Small luggage space.
Conclusion.
As a practical domestic car with the quality of interior trim and ergonomics in Lada Urban, not everything is so good. But if the choice fell on this car, then in any case it is necessary, with the help of specialists and the necessary equipment, to diagnose all systems, components and assemblies for the absence of defects. If this is not possible, then at least it is necessary to pay attention visually and during a test run to the performance of all elements of the machine.
Overview of Lada Urban
P.S. Dear current and future owners of Niva Urban cars! Write in the comments about weak points, illnesses and shortcomings of your car, identified during operation. Thank in advance.
Weaknesses and main disadvantages of Lada 4 × 4 Urban was last modified: March 29th, 2019 by Administrator
When it comes to domestic SUVs, first of all, most do not remember about UAZ Hunter. Moreover, for some it is still a revelation that there is an ordinary Niva, as well as Niva Urban.
Not everyone knows and understands what is the difference between the two cars, and how much one car differs from the other. If you take a quick look at the exterior, you don’t immediately notice a significant difference.
But these two cars are really different. Moreover, in both cases we are talking about an all-wheel drive domestic SUV. The only difference is that one model is quite old, and has been known since 1977, while the second copy was already created in modern Russia and offers somewhat different possibilities. How much they can influence the choice is up to you. But first you need to explore all aspects of the two presented vehicles.
General information
It's worth starting with general information, which will reveal some details and differences between the two cars, and will also help you take the first step in choosing between Niva or Niva Urban.
In this case, the emphasis will be on the most popular three-door modification, but we will also talk a little about four-door versions. The thing is that modifications to 4 side doors have not received proper distribution, they are much less popular, and therefore AvtoVAZ significantly limited the number of copies produced, concentrating the main effort on three-doors.
The iconic Niva or VAZ 2121 appeared back in Soviet times. It was launched into assembly line production in 1977, far away for many. Since 2006, the marketing policy has been changed, as a result of which the car changed its name to Lada 4 × 4. The essence of this has not changed much, because both names are correct and relevant.
The model has been mass-produced for over 50 years. Over such a long period, the car has gone through many upgrades, but the initial concept has remained the same. This is the most inexpensive and utilitarian car that has become a real legend.
The car is based on an all-wheel drive transmission. With the help of a center differential, torque is distributed between the front and rear wheels in proportions of 50 to 50. To increase cross-country ability, engineers equipped 2121 with a reduction gear in the transfer case and a forced locking of the center differential. In front stands an independent multi-link suspension, and behind the dependent beam. Brake system classic, and consists of rear drums and front discs. To make it easier for the driver to turn wheel, installed hydraulic booster.
Lada 4 × 4 Urban debuted at the Moscow Motor Show in the summer of 2014. This is the urban version of the world, let's not be afraid of the word, SUV VAZ 2121. Urban is offered in 3 and 5-door modifications, like the classic Niva. The model is produced at a subsidiary of AvtoVAZ VIS Auto. Mass production started in October of the same year when the presentation took place. Only since February 2016, Urban has been produced in a five-door body, that is, with 4 side doors.
Like the classic Niva, Urbana uses four-wheel drive With center differential. To ensure decent off-road performance, they put here transfer case with a reduction gear, as well as a forced differential lock system.
Urban has load-bearing body. Wheels are mounted with a spring independent suspension with wishbones and hydraulic shock absorbers. This is how the front part of the suspension is arranged. Rear spring-lever dependent design and hydraulic shock absorbers. Brake and steering system similar to the classics in the face of the VAZ 2121.
Exterior
If you need to look for differences between the Niva 2121 and Niva Urban cars anywhere, it is in the appearance of domestic crossovers.
The classic from VAZ has a simple and most recognizable appearance, in which you don’t even have to talk about any design frills. This is a monumental small off-road car with a square body and round head optics. Plus, Niva 2121 has extremely practical bumpers,. The situation with the simplicity and obsolescence of the car is not saved by the exterior mirrors that were taken from the Chevrolet Niva, as well as daytime running lights.
If we talk about dimensions, then 2121 can offer the following parameters:
- length 3720 mm;
- height 1640 mm;
- width 1680 mm;
- wheelbase 2200 mm.;
- ground clearance 220 mm.
The outward resemblance of Urban to the classic three-door Niva is obvious. Everyone can easily recognize this car in the model. At the same time, Steve Mattin, who worked on the Urban project, managed to make a small breakthrough. Even the usual square shapes have been made more modern. This was achieved thanks to the integrated front and rear bumpers, the original grille, large exterior mirrors, black door handles, alloy wheels and curved windshield wipers.
The desire of AvtoVAZ to make a city car out of Niva, calling it Urban, was reflected in the dimensions. As a result, the numbers are as follows:
- length 3640 mm;
- height 1640 mm;
- width 1680 mm;
- wheelbase 2200 mm.;
- ground clearance 220 mm.
This is objectively not enough to catch the difference between the two cars. Although it is safe to say that outwardly Urban looks more modern and relevant.
Interior and luggage compartment
Now it’s worth looking inside to understand what is the difference between the Niva 2121 and Niva Urban SUVs, and whether there is one at all.
Inside the classic Niva, everything is outrageously simple. But since this is a utility vehicle that is both a workhorse and a tool for getting through bad roads, buyers pay little attention to the interior.
The cabin is dominated by cheap materials, extremely hard plastic. To the surprise of many, the chairs are wrapped in a fabric that is pleasant to the touch. The assembly is far from ideal, as there are gaps and crickets everywhere. This is definitely an interior that does not apply to cars of the 21st century.
As a dashboard, a kit from Samara of the 2nd generation is used. The information content is good. The center console offers a minimum of buttons and controls. But even with such space, the engineers managed to make a serious mistake. For some reason, they decided that the ignition switch should be placed to the left, and not to the right of the steering column. And in the usual place of the castle put the emergency button. Brilliant, to say the least.
The front seats in terms of ergonomics are not impressive, but the level of comfort is not bad. There is no steering wheel adjustment. The rear sofa itself is uncomfortable, there is no legroom, plus getting to it is problematic. There are also no rear headrests.
There is no significant difference in terms of interior decoration between Niva and Niva Urban. As before, the design is outdated, dashboard from the second Samara. But the steering wheel was made smaller in diameter, and the rim added in thickness. The center console is made in the style of minimalism. On the tunnel, near the gearbox, they put a transfer lever, a downshift, as well as a panel with which the power windows are controlled, mirrors are adjusted.
Urban put the front seats from the same Samara 2nd generation. There is no need to talk about any lateral support here. But the profile has become better, and the filler has been made more dense.
The rear sofa and Urban remained cramped and uncomfortable. No one thought to put head restraints, which negatively reflects. Finishing materials are cheap, hard plastic. Even here they did not change the position of the ignition switch. But there were power window control buttons.
Summing up, we can say that AvtoVAZ did not contribute anything significant and useful in terms of interior to Urban. The car, as it was poorly assembled and uncomfortable, remained so. And this is the main mistake of the manufacturer. Calling the car Urban, and positioning it as a city car, it was worth adding much more comfort to the interior, installing good chairs, and thinking over the back sofa. There are minor changes on the background of 2121, but they do not make Urban better at all. Everything is very sad.
Separately, it is worth dwelling on the issues luggage compartment. In the three-door Niva 2121, the luggage compartment in the stowed state has a volume of 265 liters. If you fold the back row, the volume will increase to 585 liters.
As you might have guessed, there are no changes to the Urban version. These are the same 265 and 585 liters.
And if you look into the five-door modifications, then you won’t be able to see the difference either. Urban, like Niva 2131, has 420 liters in its normal state, or 780 liters with the seats folded down.
Motors, gearboxes and their capabilities
When it comes to comparing two cars, one of the key criteria is specifications. In particular, potential buyers are interested in what engines and gearboxes can be obtained, and what their tandem will be capable of. In the case of Niva 2121 and Niva Urban, I want to know what is better in this component. Let's try to find the difference.
The classic Niva or Lada 4x4 is offered with only one non-alternative 1.7-liter engine. It's an 8-valve inline-four. The motor complies with Euro 4 environmental standards and runs on AI-95 gasoline. The engine gives out modest 83 horsepower, and the torque here is 128 Nm. Selecting a gearbox also does not work. Available only standard 5-speed mechanics.
There is no talk of any high-speed driving here, and the potential buyer understands this very well. But those who are not yet familiar with the capabilities of the Niva in detail may be very disappointed. To accelerate from standstill to 100 kilometers per hour, you need an eternity. Namely 19 seconds. At the same time, the maximum speed does not exceed 137 kilometers per hour. At bad dynamics and low power, Niva is also quite voracious. For 100 kilometers in the city, you need about 13 liters of gasoline, and on the highway, consumption drops to about 11 liters for every hundred.
The same engine is installed on the Niva Urban. Whether it has been modified or not is not clear. But the characteristics declared by the manufacturer turned out to be somewhat better.
In particular, top speed raised to 142 kilometers per hour. And acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour now takes 17 seconds. In the city, the engine, along with the same non-alternative mechanical box requires up to 12.3 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers. In the extra-urban cycle, the consumption is approximately 8.5 liters.
Although the car owners themselves say that there is no such noticeable difference in dynamics and efficiency. Therefore, again, no significant differences between the cars could be found.
Passability, handling and safety
Talk about what it is safe cars, it is forbidden. Cars didn't even get headrests for rear passengers. Needless to say about all sorts of things, a wide range of airbags and electronic assistants. None of this is in cars.
Crash tests are also not impressive. Getting into an accident on such a car is scary, even at a relatively low speed. Despite a strong body, the driver and passengers usually receive serious injuries.
The handling of Niva 2121 and Niva Urban is almost identical. The usual version of the Russian SUV is more rigid and does not respond well to the active work of the steering wheel. Nevertheless, Niva Urban is conditionally more urban. But this is implemented to a greater extent due to a different steering wheel setting. The suspension is not pleasantly soft when driving over bumps. But Niva Urban, like Niva 4x4, is designed for off-road.
It is in such conditions that cars show their best side. It is pointless to make a comparison in this component. Although the 2121 certainly feels a bit more confident with simple front and rear bumpers. The modified appearance of Urban did not greatly affect the cross-country ability, but hitting such a bumper would be more offensive than in the case of a classic compact SUV.
Maintenance and operating costs
You can already perfectly see that in front of you are technically identical cars. They have the same almost everything, except for small nuances.
This does not give a reason to make Niva Urban more expensive to maintain and operate than a simple SUV version. You can only compare configurations. Urban has a more solid filling from the start. It is the failure of those components that are not available in a conventional Niva that can conditionally make Urban a little more expensive in terms of maintenance and operation costs.
Niva 2121 is as simple as possible in filling and equipping. So it's probably fair to say that it's a bit cheaper. To a greater extent, this concerns the correction of external defects, the replacement of bumpers or optics. These parts will be more expensive just on Urbana. Plus, the car is not as common as the classic VAZ 2121.
Complete set
On the Russian market Lada 4x4 is offered only in 2 equipment options. This is the Standard and a more advanced version of the Suite.
If you take the initial version, you will get:
- fabric salon;
- power steering;
- folding back sofa;
- steel discs;
- immobilizer;
- isofix;
- fabric salon.
If you spend a little more, but take the Lux version, then you can additionally count on the installation of air conditioning in the car. The minimum price tag for the VAZ 2121 is currently 488 thousand rubles. Top equipment can be purchased for about 545 thousand rubles.
Urban's package looks a little more convincing. But she is the only one. As equipment, everything is available here as in the case of the standard Niva. Plus you can get:
- ABS, EBD;
- additional vibration isolation;
- heated seats in front;
- electric drive of external mirrors;
- heated exterior mirrors;
- air conditioner;
- power windows;
- alloy wheels 16 inches;
- athermal glasses;
- metallic paint, etc.
The minimum cost of Urban is from 550 thousand rubles. Maximizing the level of equipment, you will have to pay almost 600 thousand rubles.
Summing up
It is extremely difficult to draw conclusions in the case of the usual Niva and Niva Urban. Given all the information received, you can clearly see that there is practically no difference between the two domestic SUVs.
The main problem is that AvtoVAZ released new car, Urban called it, began to position it as a more urban SUV, but in fact did practically nothing in this direction. Yes, there are changes in appearance. But inside it remained the same old, sometimes kind, Niva. Absolutely no technical changes. An exact copy of the current version of the VAZ 2121.
Only the prettier and more modern speaks in favor of Urban appearance, as well as an extended list of available equipment. But the price has increased accordingly. It's just hard to say what the consumer should overpay for.
If you decide that you need a car of the Niva level, that is, you are going to drive, do all sorts of things that require driving on bad roads, take a regular Niva with a 3 or 5-door body. And in maximum configuration. It will still be cheaper than the initial version of Urban.
Whether it makes sense to take exclusively Urban's version is an ambiguous question, and one that needs a more detailed and thorough analysis. Overpaying for some options that actually do not affect anything, not taking into account minor improvements in comfort, in the case of a car like the VAZ Niva, not everyone will want to. What you should not spare money for is air conditioning. Moreover, in the case of such machines, it is always possible to independently install the interior cooling system. It will cost less than buying an air conditioner from the manufacturer. Plus, you can deliver a better and more efficient system.
In any case, the buyer himself must make the final decision. You can praise AvtoVAZ for trying to make something more modern and relevant out of the old Soviet Niva. But this attempt frankly failed. Too few changes have been made to talk about any significant differences and look for a difference between Urban and Niva 2121.
No matter how motorists scold the domestic automotive industry, it, albeit not too quickly, but qualitatively responds to changes and fresh trends in this market. So, in 2012, AvtoVAZ began to realize that it was urgent to improve the VAZ-2121, or simply Niva.
Over the three decades that this model has existed, it has changed many times. This car showed itself perfectly in the Far North.
Lada 4x4 Urban - updated "Niva Urban"
Large-scale statistical studies were carried out at AvtoVAZ. And only after this work, designers and engineers began to modernize the legendary domestic car high permeability.
The business began with surveys of motorists, or rather, owners of VAZ-2121 SUVs. Further, the factory took into account all the reviews. And so the new or updated Lada Urban appeared. The car was delivered to the assembly line in October 2014.
Exterior changes
The exterior has changed a bit though. This is easy to see. The car received a completely new grille frame. Now it also captures the main headlights. The frame is made of highly durable and wear-resistant plastic. The side windows are also framed in plastic. The bumper is painted to match the body color and equipped with plastic overlays.
increased and side mirrors, a doorknobs now a slightly different shape. Engineers slightly increased the wheel arches.
Otherwise, the new Niva Urban did not receive any special changes in the exterior, and its body is almost the same as that of the ordinary Niva. Its geometry has not changed at all.
At the same time, the car itself is already perceived better. At AvtoVAZ, they realized what this car lacked in order to gain great popularity.
In the cabin
Let's continue the review (Lada 4x4 Urban) and see the interior of the car. There are interior changes. There aren't many, but it's better than nothing. So, the very first thing is the steering wheel. It has shrunk in diameter and become a little thicker. As for the reviews, motorists unanimously say that now the steering wheel is much better in the hand.
Another change is the floor tunnel. There are two cupholders for glasses of different sizes, as well as an ashtray. In addition, this block housed the control keys for power windows and side mirror adjustment. The power package also includes heated seats.
The manufacturer presented the chairs as completely new. They are stitched with orange stitching, but there is one thing. Experienced drivers will notice that these are chairs from Samara. And not only the appearance will remind you of this. This is directly screaming sensations from landing in this chair. The crossbar still obsessively presses on the lower back. But due to a different upholstery material and a modified profile, the fit seems more comfortable.
What do owner reviews say? Lada 4x4 Urban ("Niva") has become more comfortable. On long trips and in the city, the back does not get tired from sitting in a chair, although the landing is unusual. Motorists say that the sensations can be compared to sitting on a stool rather than lying on a couch. Sitting in the back will be comfortable only for children.
The trunk can hold 265 liters with the standard rear seat. If the back is folded, then the volume will double.
New "Niva Urban" - now with air conditioning
The main and almost imperceptible novelty inside the car is a button to start the air conditioner. Air conditioning in this car was needed for a long time. And, according to the owners of this car, it works pretty well.
In the announcements, AvtoVAZ specialists reported that it would not turn out to be too noisy, and at work it would not eat away at the dynamics of the engine. And this is a plus, because power unit not very powerful.
Air conditioning is very, very good, but the owners' reviews of the Lada Niva Urban say that not everyone can adjust the air flows, their direction, and volumes using the old sliders.
What's under the hood?
Here everything is the same, native and familiar to everyone. Under the hood of this car is a 1.7-liter gasoline engine. The unit is in-line, four-cylinder and produces 83 hp. With. This, of course, is a small figure, but the high torque of 129 Nm is able to compensate for the lack of power. The engine accelerates the car to 100 km/h in just 17 seconds.
Transmission
At the stage of creation for the manufacturers of the Niva 4x4 Urban SUV, the feedback from the owners was crucial. At first glance at the transmission levers, it seems that the interior has not changed at all. This is one of the features that are unique to Niva.
The strange thing here is that in this modification they had to remove and give the differential lock to the electronics. As a result, one gearshift lever should have remained, there was a significant decrease in vibration and transmission noise.
But while the car is equipped with the usual production model transmission system. Perhaps in 2015 a new Niva Urban will be released. Owner reviews are literally begging developers to remove these levers.
According to Steve Mattin, such a system will be implemented if it performs well on test cars.
Geometry
The wheels remain the same, and the clearance has not changed. Although the head of this project has repeatedly stated that the car will be 20 mm lower. This will slightly lower the center of gravity of the Niva Urban car. Feedback from the owners of this model makes it clear that the geometry is the same - nothing has changed.
Suspension and ride quality
The suspension is the main and main advantage of the old Niva (after high cross-country ability). According to the notorious Russian roads you can really ride on it. However, it is worth leaving on good asphalt, as the car immediately "goes out". "Horses" is not enough.
What are car owners saying?
Many people think that the car is perfect for traveling around the city, as well as for fishing or summer cottages. Due to the design of the suspension "Niva" is suitable for driving on dirt roads. However, most owners are sure that the technologies have long been outdated - about 15 years of commercials. Many people bought the Niva only because affordable price and the complete absence of analogues.
You can talk for a long time about the shortcomings of the Niva Urban car. Owner reviews, however, are very enthusiastic. For example, many of them claim that this is a great off-road domestic car c Motorists believe that the car is not inferior to some models of all-terrain vehicles. "Niva" is equipped normal engine, transmission system, has reliable brakes. The seats are soft, the design is also good. But the bumper could be stronger. It also pleases motorists with low fuel consumption. In addition, there are no more cars in the Russian automobile industry that can also be used to drive through swamps. In general - not a car, but a fairy tale.
However, there are other reviews as well. So, some owners believe that the car is a guest from the past. Small trunk, small rear seats, which are convenient only for children. Archaism of most solutions and technologies. Low quality components, as well as a low level of security. It is impossible to turn into a new one only with the design from Mattin.
Yes, Urban is not a modern comfortable crossover. Nevertheless, he has a brutal appearance, and the content is quite serious. Everyone who was behind the wheel of the Niva will forever remember the vibrations, the noise of the wind, the sound of the box.
Driving an Urban is a bit of a romance. Many car owners look at the car from this angle, not paying attention to minor inconveniences, annoying breakdowns, panel creaking. Here she is, "Niva Urban". The reviews of the owners, as is already clear, are very ambiguous about her.
However, a competent motorist gets his hands on vehicle, which allows you to open the fourth dimension on the road. The car rides great on snow, mud, gravel.
Who will buy Urban?
New bumpers, the presence of air conditioning and the name did not make any fundamental changes. Many will remember the Niva as a car for fishing or hunting trips. This modification is of interest to those who previously drove a Lada 4x4 car. These are the real fans of this model. The car will not suit those whom AvtoVAZ marketers were counting on.
Prices and equipment
What is the price for the Lada 4x4 Urban SUV? The characteristics of the model are different, but the price starts from 438,000 rubles for the version with air conditioning, electric mirrors and power windows.
You can expect the Niva to go on sale soon with a 16-valve engine of 90 hp. With. Here the price will be higher (until it is regulated), but this model is worth buying.
What's next?
In 2016, we can expect a powerful interior update. Here, motorists are waiting for a new climate system. Also, the statistical departments of the manufacturer are still conducting surveys about what else is missing in the car.
Some changes are also possible in the near future. In addition to the transmission, optimized for the city, they promise new wheels, towbar mounts.
As a conclusion
Now we can finish the review of Lada 4x4 Urban. It's hard to tell anything else about this car. And the conclusion is this: the modernization could not make the Niva a city car, as can be observed with imported analogues such as Kia, Hyundai, Volkswagen, and so on. But it is also passable, and has other enviable characteristics.
The machine is struggling with off-road, reliable, hardy. It is worth believing that Urban is not latest model in that model range. AvtoVAZ constantly analyzes the information received from the owners and does everything to satisfy all requests. The SUV of the Urban series is a very successful attempt. This all-wheel drive car is considered the best that has happened to the Niva over the past 30 years.
So, we found out what Niva Urban has owner reviews, design, interior and initial cost.