AvtoVAZ, the Russian carmaker behind Lada, is planning to begin manufacturing the Lada Niva Travel and Niva Legend with a new 1.8-liter engine in 2025, according to Avtostat, which cites statements from Maxim Sokolov, the company’s chief executive. This marks a strategic step as the plant updates its powertrain lineup to meet evolving market and regulatory expectations. The precise engine variant slated for debut remains unclear, with Avtostat noting that Sokolov did not specify whether the engine will be the recently introduced 1.8 Evo family or another 1.8-liter powerplant. What is definite is that the plan excludes any move to fit the current 16-valve 1.6-liter engine to the Niva models. Presently, the SUVs are equipped with 1.7-liter units delivering around 83 horsepower. The move signals a continuous modernization of the Niva range while preserving the rugged character that defines these compact off-roaders.
Historically in Russia, the Niva Legend and Niva Travel have been upgraded to include features like anti-lock braking systems and engines that comply with the Euro-5 environmental standard. In a broader local effort, engine calibrations and control units aligned with Euro-5 were developed domestically, ensuring compatibility with a range of trims. The inclusion of ABS and Euro-5 compliance in all trim levels underscores AvtoVAZ’s commitment to safety and emissions standards for its flagship SUV lineup, aligning with market expectations for modern crossovers and off-road models while maintaining the practical, affordable appeal that has characterized these vehicles for years.
Previous statements from AvtoVAZ suggested that sales momentum for the Niva range could accelerate in the near term, with projections indicating growth in the year ahead. Analysts and enthusiasts watch closely as the company navigates supply dynamics, evolving regulatory requirements, and the need to balance new powertrain technology with the enduring versatility that has made the Niva Travel and Niva Legend popular in the country and among global enthusiasts who prize rugged capability and straightforward engineering. The forthcoming 1.8-liter option is expected to bring updated performance characteristics while retaining the accessible price point and straightforward maintenance profile that have long defined these models. Industry observers anticipate that the 2025 refresh will help sustain demand for the Niva family as buyers weigh urban practicality against off-road aptitude, especially as emissions and safety considerations continue to shape purchasing decisions across Canada and the United States.