AvtoVAZ, the Russian carmaker behind Lada, has secured a new airbag supplier for the Lada Granta and Lada Vesta models, according to the company’s press service. The switch marks a critical step in stabilizing production and ensuring that the popular compact sedans can be manufactured with fully functional safety components once more. The announcement notes that the new supplier has cleared the necessary testing and qualification processes, allowing for the restart of production of fully functional versions of both the Lada Vesta and Lada Granta in 2024. [Source: AvtoVAZ press service]
In late 2023, AvtoVAZ faced a disruption in airbag supply when a foreign partner halted shipments due to sanctions. The company moved quickly to identify an alternative, and the selected supplier has since completed an end-to-end testing cycle, confirming compatibility and reliability with the vehicle platforms. This change aligns with the broader industry pattern of adjusting supply chains to maintain production continuity amid geopolitical and regulatory headwinds. [Source: AvtoVAZ press service]
Historically, the Granta and Vesta families have been central to AvtoVAZ’s lineup, with iterations like the Lada Vesta SW Sportline drawing attention for their sport-oriented adjustments. The Sportline variant is equipped with a 1.6-liter gasoline engine delivering 118 horsepower and a five-speed manual transmission. It reaches a top speed close to 190 km/h, and acceleration from zero to 100 km/h is reported around 10.9 seconds. This model combines a reduced ground clearance with a retuned suspension and updated shock absorbers to deliver a more engaging driving experience while maintaining everyday practicality. [Source: AvtoVAZ press service]
Sales channels have continued to evolve as well. Earlier information indicated that the Lada Vesta family had been offered with discounts, including a notable reduction of around 200,000 rubles in some configurations. Those incentives illustrate how AvtoVAZ has balanced demand with evolving production realities, emphasizing value alongside safety and performance. [Source: AvtoVAZ press service]
From a broader perspective, the restart of fully functional airbag-equipped Granta and Vesta variants underscores AvtoVAZ’s commitment to meeting safety standards while adapting to a shifting global supply landscape. For potential buyers in markets where Lada models are distributed or discussed, the news signals improved predictability in availability and compliance with important safety components. The transition to a new, tested supplier reduces risk for both manufacturers and customers and supports continuity of service and parts supply across Canada and the United States. [Source: AvtoVAZ press service]