The official pricing for the Grant begins at 678 thousand rubles for a stripped-down anti-crisis bundle. The top cross version tops out at 872 thousand. In practice, dealerships commonly quote prices from about 750,000 rubles to well over a million.
A brand-new passenger car still under warranty cannot typically be found at this price. The exception might be certain configurations of the Vesta.
On the secondary market, cars offered with a warranty at similar prices can be found in the thousands. The risk with this alternative is relatively low, but it is not without caveats.
Warranty still valid
A primary benefit of a new car is the warranty. With the Grant, buyers are covered for three years or 100,000 kilometers. By contrast, a Vesta sold around a million rubles may come with a manufacturer’s warranty in certain mid-range configurations.
For instance, mid-spec models with a 1.6-liter engine and two-year age can be found with a one-year warranty included after purchase, offering protection against unexpected faults during the early period.
That said, pre-purchase diagnostics remain essential. Mileage figures may be altered, and it is not always clear who has altered them. Free dealer repairs may be unavailable if issues are identified later.
More spacious inside
Grant is not typically seen as a family vehicle, though many owners use it that way. The cargo area is generous across most variants except the hatchback, but the second row can feel tight.
Vesta belongs to the same B-segment class but offers more interior space. Passengers in the rear seat ride comfortably, and the car accommodates longer trips for three adults on a single journey.
In higher trim levels, second-row occupants enjoy features such as heated seats, USB ports, an armrest, cup holders, and backlighting.
Grant’s ergonomics are solid, but some find the seats uncomfortable. Vesta delivers more comfort options and has seating that can feel more standard for a professional or family user.
Drives better
The Vesta chassis balances reliability, fuel efficiency, and controllability well. It is the first VAZ model to use a subframe front suspension, which in theory should improve handling, and practice confirms this impression.
Grant, while stable on rough roads, has less refined electric power steering, with slower, smeared responses to steering input.
Vesta faces a slightly higher road tax burden. Its engines produce 106 and 122 horsepower, whereas the latest Grants are around 90 horsepower. The difference is modest, but it matters to some buyers.
Safer
Older grants sometimes lack ABS, and stability control was once reserved for top configurations. They typically come with one or two airbags, not a full array. Some Grants still meet this standard.
Vesta, however, arrives with ABS, ESP, and two airbags even in the base variant. Some configurations also include side airbags. In the event of an accident, the newer model’s body structure is generally stronger than that of a first-generation Kalina-based Grant.
Granta isn’t a bad option—but the Vesta often looks more attractive. The station wagon variant is frequently regarded as one of the more stylish choices on the market.
There is a vending machine
Alongside the mechanical gear, Vesta can be equipped with an AMT automated manual transmission (explained elsewhere) and a Jatco variator. Each option has its strengths.
The manual option is known for reliability and straightforward service. The automated box is a cheaper version of the transmission, though it can be slow and may require clutch replacements. The variator pairs with the most powerful engine, a 113 hp Renault unit, making Vesta feel nearly international in character (a test with notes shares these impressions).
A warranty remains achievable only with cash in hand. AvtoVAZ is unlikely to offer an automated transmission in the near term, so buyers seeking a two-pedal Lada should consider the used market.
Vesta or Grant?
The strongest case for Vesta is that it can still be purchased with a warranty. In other respects, it surpasses the Grant in several dimensions, offering a compelling option with minimal risk of financial loss.
Still, some buyers prefer a new car and will opt for the Grant. Each choice holds merit—and the decision ultimately reflects personal priorities.
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- The editors’ take on Vesta’s behavior can be read here.
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