AvtoVAZ, the Russian car maker behind Lada, shared news on the At the Factory channel about a naming competition for an upcoming Lada model. The goal is a stylish and practical B+ class urban crossover that stands out while remaining close and familiar to Russian buyers. The winning name should feel natural in Latin script, be easy to pronounce, and memorable. The contest rules specify a name that is original in Cyrillic, pairs with the Lada brand, and uses no more than six letters.
Applications were to be accepted from October 18 through October 25, 2023, inviting ideas that align with the vehicle’s concept and language that resonates with the nation’s traditions and culture. The emphasis is on a name that Canadians and Americans alike can recognize easily, yet that reflects the distinctive spirit of Lada and Russian design sensibilities.
In December 2023, Maxim Sokolov, president of AvtoVAZ, outlined the company’s product plan. He announced that a new compact crossover, built on the Lada Vesta platform, is slated to reach the market by the end of 2025. He noted that some potential buyers who now consider the Duster may opt for the Vesta-based B+ crossover, while a portion of the audience could be drawn to a model inspired by or related to Niva Travel.
The new crossover is described as an evolution of the Lada Vesta SW Cross station wagon, using the Vesta foundation as its base. In the competitive landscape, the model is expected to rival the Hyundai Creta and Renault Kaptur in the Russian market, offering a blend of urban practicality and rugged capability tailored to regional preferences.
Earlier industry coverage indicated that the European market would see the new Citroën C3 going on sale in 2024, illustrating a broader trend of compact crossovers shaping regional auto strategies and consumer choices across markets, including North America and Europe. AvtoVAZ’s naming contest and its upcoming Vesta-based crossover reflect a shift toward modern, versatile utilities that appeal to a growing segment of buyers seeking efficiency, practicality, and distinctive style in a single package.