The select period in April 2024 marks the restart of production for AvtoVAZ’s Lada Granta Cross, a decision confirmed through public channels including Avtograd News on VKontakte, the widely used social network. Industry observers note that the company signaled a plan to resume assembling the Granta Cross station wagon after a temporary pause tied to supply chain disruptions. At a recent gathering with factory staff, Granta Prokaev, the deputy production director, outlined the schedule and confirmed that the workday would return to normal for the Cross variant in April. The formal communication described a restart that would bring back the model to the production line, addressing both manufacturing continuity and the needs of buyers awaiting a practical compact wagon with capable off-road credentials. The pause, which occurred in December 2023, was attributed to shortages of certain components essential to the assembly process. This halt underscores the sensitivity of modern automotive production to supply chain dynamics and the impact these swings can have on product timelines and dealer inventories.
The Granta Cross distinguishes itself from the standard Lada Granta through practical enhancements designed for light off-road use and everyday versatility. Key changes include a body kit constructed from durable plastics, which helps protect the paint and underlying panels during routine off-pavement driving and when negotiating rougher routes. The model also benefits from new tires selected to safeguard the wheel housing and body surfaces in conditions that may see more gravel, dirt, or uneven terrain. A higher ground clearance further improves approach and departure angles, allowing drivers to handle rough roads the way a small crossover would, without sacrificing on-road ride comfort. Together these elements give the Granta Cross a more rugged character while preserving the familiar dimensions and driving footprint of the family sedan family that many motorists rely on for daily errands, commuting, and weekend trips.
Under the hood, the Granta Cross continues to offer dependable power options that align with value-minded buyers. The lineup includes a 1.6-liter gasoline engine, delivering horsepower figures in the modest range suitable for urban environments and country roads alike. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission, the powertrain emphasizes simplicity and resilience, with performance characteristics that favor predictable throttle response and ease of maintenance. This configuration remains aimed at delivering efficient fuel economy and reliable operation for owners who prioritize straightforward mechanical design and cost-effective ownership. For Canadian and American customers, such a combination translates to low maintenance costs, straightforward parts availability, and robust, long-term usability in diverse driving conditions.
Looking ahead, the restart of Granta Cross production is expected to influence dealer allocations, customer lead times, and potential test-drive opportunities across regions where AvtoVAZ vehicles have established a following. Analysts and enthusiasts will watch how the revived model integrates with the current market landscape, where compact wagons and crossover-styled sedans continue to attract buyers seeking practical space, all-weather capability, and a favorable balance between purchase price and running costs. In the broader context of the Russian automotive sector, the Granta Cross represents a practical example of adaptation and continuity in response to supply chain challenges, while preserving recognizable design language and feature sets that have appealed to buyers looking for a compact, capably equipped daily driver. The revival also signals a return to steady production rhythms after a temporary downturn, reinforcing confidence among suppliers, distributors, and potential customers who were awaiting more predictable manufacturing schedules.