VAZ completed a long transfer of production from the Izhevsk plant to the main facility in Tolyatti, a move aimed at boosting capacity to meet growing demand. Management believes the new site better aligns with the market and ensures more efficient, scalable output.
With the relocation nearing completion, the final fine-tuning of manufacturing processes is underway. The plan calls for the first batch of mass-produced vehicles to roll off the Togliatti line in May, marking a new stage in the company’s production strategy.
This material originates from a source with foreign-agent status in the Russian Federation.
Observers will soon see these cars in showrooms at official Lada dealerships. What kind of vehicles will they be? Maxim Kadakov, editor-in-chief of Behind the Wheel, shared his expectations with the editorial team.
Expert assessment
Maxim Kadakov, editor-in-chief of Behind the Wheel, explains that despite the NG badge, the lineup represents a restyling rather than a completely new model. The update features redesigned bumpers and grille, and headlights have shifted to LED illumination. Inside, buyers will notice a redesigned instrument panel, steering wheel, and door panels.
Initially, the refresh will not bring new technical features to the engine bay. The lineup will offer a 1.6-liter, eight-valve engine producing about 90 horsepower. This engine was not previously offered in the NG family, marking the first strategic shift in powertrain for this generation.
Later in the season, versions with 16-valve engines are expected to appear, bringing more options for performance and efficiency. The return of a variator-equipped modification is not planned until the following year, according to the editor.
Spring prospects: five additional models anticipated in Russia
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