Russian automotive giant AVTOVAZ is set to launch its new model, the Lada Iskra, on April 19, 2025. This date marks the 55th anniversary of the iconic VAZ-2101, which hit the production line on the same day back in 1970. The Lada Iskra will be available in three body styles—sedan, station wagon, and Cross variant—offering versatility suited for both urban commutes and leisurely country trips.
The new model boasts several engine options: the base version features a 1.6-liter engine with 90 horsepower paired with a five-speed manual transmission, and there’s also a more powerful variant producing 106 horsepower which can be combined with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission for those who prioritize comfort.
Maxim Sokolov, the president of AVTOVAZ, expressed the significance of April 19, 2025, stating, “On April 19, 1970, the first universally beloved ‘Kopeika’ rolled off the assembly line, and we are grateful to our veterans who created this factory and continue to assist us with their invaluable experience. 55 years later, on April 19, 2025, we will celebrate this day by starting the industrial production of our latest model—the Lada Iskra.”
The Lada Iskra promises to be a worthy successor to the Lada lineup, with its variety of body styles, engine choices, and transmissions making it appealing to a wide array of consumers. Enthusiasts foresee it as potential competition though it occupies the budget car market, boasting modern design and reliability.
Interestingly, the VAZ-2101, which began production 55 years ago, was based on the successful Italian Fiat 124. Over the years, it became one of the most well-loved cars not just in the Soviet Union but across post-Soviet states.
While the basic sedan version of the Iskra is expected to have an initial price of around 1.2 million rubles, economic fluctuations may lead to adjustments. Estimates suggest prices could potentially rise to approximately 1.3 million rubles by the time sales launch this summer, which is anticipated to be shortly after production starts.
Photos of pre-production models, captured recently, show sedans and wagons available in two colors: the classic 'Glacial' white and the darker 'Borneo' gray metallic. The base models will have features like standard audio preparation, front electric window lifts, two airbags, ABS, ESC, and automatic headlights.
Higher-end versions of the Iskra will feature climate control, parking sensors at both the front and rear, multimedia systems with 8-inch touchscreens, Yandex services, and full alloy wheels, establishing the connections between traditional values and modern innovations.
By June 2025, AVTOVAZ is also planning to reveal its new crossover built on the Vesta platform, signaling its commitment to future developments, with production set for 2026. Currently, the collective team at AVTOVAZ was awarded the Order of the “For Valorous Labor” by presidential decree, recognizing their significant contributions to the automotive industry.
All eyes are now set on the April release of the Lada Iskra. Will it once again capture the hearts of car enthusiasts as its predecessor did over five decades ago? Only time will tell, as consumers gear up to embrace what promises to be another significant chapter for Russian automotive history.