On April 5, 2025, the iconic Lada Niva will celebrate its 48th anniversary, coinciding with the launch of the highly anticipated Lada Niva Sport. This new sports variant, which marks a significant evolution in the Niva lineup, is set to redefine the experience of driving this beloved off-road vehicle.
The assembly of the Lada Niva Sport commenced in December 2024, under the auspices of the Lada Sport division, part of the renowned Russian automotive giant AVTOVAZ. The choice of launch date is not coincidental; it commemorates the day in 1977 when the first Lada Niva rolled off the production line in Tolyatti. Maxim Sokolov, President of AVTOVAZ, emphasized the significance of the Niva, stating, "LADA NIVA is one of the most recognizable cars in the world. It has been on all continents and has become a symbol of the LADA brand in many countries."
The Lada Niva Sport boasts an impressive 140 design changes compared to its predecessor, the Lada Niva Legend. One of the most notable upgrades is the transition from the classic 1.7-liter engine to a new 1.6-liter, 16-valve engine, which is also featured in the Lada Granta Sport and Vesta Sportline. This engine produces 122 horsepower and delivers a torque of 151 Nm at 5000 rpm, providing a noticeable boost in performance.
In addition to the engine upgrade, the Lada Niva Sport features a modernized five-speed manual transmission with reinforced gears and a redesigned clutch housing. The vehicle's acceleration has significantly improved, allowing it to reach 100 km/h in just 11.8 seconds, a substantial reduction from the 17 seconds required by the classic Niva. The maximum speed has also increased to 162 km/h, surpassing the previous model's top speed of 142 km/h.
Safety and handling have also seen significant enhancements. The Niva Sport is equipped with a reinforced suspension, wider track, and improved braking systems, including ventilated front discs and rear discs. The ground clearance has been raised from 200 mm to an impressive 220 mm, allowing for better off-road capabilities. A stabilizer bar has been added to enhance lateral stability, making the vehicle more agile and responsive on various terrains.
Visually, the Lada Niva Sport stands out with its striking design elements, including wider wheel arch extensions and two-tone 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior features a stylish red and black color scheme, leather-wrapped steering wheel, adjustable steering column, and a host of amenities such as air conditioning, heated front seats, and electric mirrors. However, due to the new engine configuration, the traditional spare wheel has been replaced with a tire repair kit.
The recommended price for the Lada Niva Sport is set at 1,699,000 rubles. In comparison, the standard Niva Legend currently retails between 1.06 and 1.21 million rubles, while the off-road variant, Niva Bronto, is priced at 1.49 to 1.55 million rubles. Initially, the Niva Sport will be available for order through selected Lada dealers, with plans for a broader rollout across the dealer network in the future.
As the Lada Niva Sport officially hits the market, it is poised to attract a new generation of drivers eager for a dynamic off-road experience. With its blend of modern engineering and classic ruggedness, the Niva Sport promises to uphold the legacy of its predecessors while offering exciting new capabilities.
In a statement reflecting on the vehicle's launch, Sokolov noted, "With the release of LADA NIVA Sport, we offer new opportunities for active driving in any conditions." This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of the Niva, a vehicle that has long been synonymous with adventure and exploration.
The first units of the Niva Sport are expected to reach dealerships in 25 regions across Russia, including major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, within a week or two following the launch. As anticipation builds, potential buyers are already lining up to place their orders, eager to experience the thrill of driving this enhanced off-road vehicle.
With the Lada Niva Sport, AVTOVAZ aims to not only celebrate the rich history of the Niva but also to pave the way for its future in a competitive automotive landscape. As the brand expands its offerings and embraces modern technology, the Niva remains a beloved classic that continues to evolve.
