AvtoVAZ dealers have begun offering what is described as a “simplified” version of the Vesta sedan that ships without airbags. This development has been publicly reported by Avtograd News, with confirmation circulating on the VKontakte social network where many customers and observers share updates about first-hand experiences at the dealership level.
In a published message, observers note that Vesta Sedan cars without airbags have appeared on sale at least at certain Togliatti dealerships for several days. The price cited in that message is 1.46 million rubles, a figure that has attracted attention given the reduced equipment level and the ongoing conversations about the supply chain constraints facing AvtoVAZ. This situation highlights how manufacturers sometimes adapt inventory and product configurations in response to parts shortages, a move that can help keep production lines active while matching supply with demand in a fluid market. (Source: Avtograd News, VKontakte discussion thread)
As of December 11, 2023, AvtoVAZ publicly acknowledged that Vesta models were being produced without airbags due to parts shortages. The decision to implement this workaround was described as a necessary measure to prevent conveyor downtime and to avoid creating a backlog of shortages across the factory floor. The company indicated that this option would continue to be offered on Lada Vesta models into 2024, underscoring a pragmatic approach to maintaining output while navigating difficult supply conditions. Observers point out that safety implications and regulatory considerations are part of the ongoing conversation, with the understanding that the airbags are a critical safety feature. (Source: AvtoVAZ production updates, industry coverage)
The Vesta models configured without airbags are reported to come with a gasoline engine producing 106 horsepower and a manual transmission in the most basic configuration. This trim level, while more affordable, prioritizes core mobility features over certain passive safety components. Consumers weighing these vehicles should consider how the omission of airbags affects overall safety performance, the potential impact on insurance terms, and the reliability of the remaining safety and structural systems in place. (Market analysis and consumer guidance, independent automotive observers)
In related market news, there have been discussions about other models entering the Russian market, including the Jetour T2 SUV, which is expected to be priced around 3.76 million rubles. This comparison provides a broader context for how automakers are positioning new and legacy models in a market that balances cost, safety requirements, and evolving consumer preferences. The Jetour T2 entry serves as a reference point for what buyers might expect in terms of feature packages and value propositions at similar price tiers. (Market update commentary, automotive press)