Maxim Sokolov, the president of AvtoVAZ, reiterated his belief that the iconic Lada Niva, which has been part of the company’s lineup since 1977, is on track to mark a historic milestone with its 50th year of continuous production. In a detailed conversation with Kommersant, he shared this optimistic outlook and explained that the vehicle has become a symbol of the brand’s resilience and engineering tenacity. Sokolov’s remarks underscore the enduring appeal of the Niva, a model that has earned a lasting place in the hearts of customers across Russia and beyond, thanks to its rugged capability and proven performance in demanding conditions.
He noted that AvtoVAZ’s strategy emphasizes strong domestic development, with a high content share of at least 90 percent for several platforms and models. Among these, the Lada Granta and the Lada Niva Classic stand out as core examples of the company’s commitment to homegrown engineering and local manufacturing. According to Sokolov, these vehicles are part of three main pillars that support the brand’s self-sufficiency and long-term viability, reinforcing AvtoVAZ’s reputation for producing reliable cars with a distinctly Russian heritage. The Niva Classic, in particular, has a dedicated following that continues to demand updates and improvements while preserving its original spirit and rugged charm.
The executive also highlighted an upswing in Lada Niva sales, a trend that suggests growing consumer interest despite ongoing market challenges. Looking ahead, AvtoVAZ plans to equip the Niva with a modern, more powerful engine featuring higher torque to enhance performance in a range of driving conditions. This upgrade is positioned as part of a broader modernization program designed to elevate dynamics, efficiency, and reliability while maintaining the vehicle’s beloved off-road DNA. The path forward blends heritage with incremental technical advancements to meet contemporary expectations without compromising the vehicle’s core identity.
Additionally, Sokolov confirmed that automatic transmissions would return to Lada models at the start of 2024. He acknowledged that the transition from previous automatic systems had not yet been fully adapted, but the company has been addressing these integration challenges. The renewed emphasis on automatic transmissions reflects AvtoVAZ’s effort to broaden the model lineup, improve ease of use for customers, and expand the appeal of its cars in markets where automatic gear shifting is highly valued. By reintroducing automatic options, AvtoVAZ aims to align its offerings with modern preferences while continuing to honor the practical strengths that have defined Lada vehicles for decades. The changes are presented as a natural evolution for the brand, balancing traditional durability with contemporary convenience and performance expectations.