Industry experts at AvtoVAZ have addressed a long-standing concern among Lada Vesta owners: excessive oil consumption by the 1.8-liter engine. The information comes from the Quto portal, which summarizes the engineering work that tackled the issue head-on. By revisiting the engine’s design and applying targeted modifications, the company has charted a clear path to improved reliability and reduced maintenance costs for the model lineup.
Leading the Vesta project was Oleg Grunenkov, who explained that the core fix involved redesigning the VAZ-21179 engine. The changes were aimed at stabilizing oil clearance and reducing oil burn during regular operation. In the 2024 update cycle the redesigned engine began to find its way into the upgraded Lada Vesta, marking a significant milestone in the model’s evolution. This shift demonstrates AvtoVAZs commitment to refining existing platforms rather than pursuing an entirely new vehicle family.
Historically, owners of the 1.8-liter variant reported needing to top up oil every 2,000 to 4,000 kilometers, a burden that translated into more frequent maintenance and higher running costs. A portion of the owner base also noted a noticeable rise in fuel consumption, estimating roughly 1 liter per 1,000 kilometers in some driving conditions. The company had previously attempted an upgrade in 2018, but the remedy stopped short of fully eliminating the oil burn issue. The most recent redesigns build on that experience, delivering improved sealing, lubrication flow, and engine calibration to minimize oil use while maintaining performance and efficiency.
Separately, AvtoVAZ has continued to promote the updated Lada Vesta with a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine as a more economical option. This version is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and is offered in configurations that price it between approximately 1.24 million and 1.69 million rubles. The aim of offering both engines is to provide buyers with a broader choice that aligns with different driving needs and budgets. The company emphasizes torque delivery, reliability, and straightforward maintenance as core selling points for the 1.6-liter family, while the 1.8-liter variant remains a compelling choice for customers who prioritize higher power output and robust highway performance. Across the range, the focus remains on balancing affordability with long-term ownership satisfaction and proven engineering.”