AvtoVAZ has expanded the Lada Vesta lineup with a new 1.6-liter engine paired with an automatic transmission. The information comes from the company’s press service. The move is aimed at broadening the model range and giving buyers a smoother, more affordable automatic option in the compact sedan segment. The 1.6-liter powerplant delivers 106 horsepower and is designed to provide a balanced blend of performance and economy for everyday driving. This addition aligns with the brand strategy of keeping the Vesta family up to date with modern transmission choices while maintaining an approachable price point in markets across Russia and nearby regions, including potential considerations for North American readers curious about global model options.
Lada emphasizes that this is a new, more accessible modification of Vesta equipped with an automatic gearbox. The company confirms that a 1.6-liter engine producing 106 horsepower, paired with an automatic transmission, now sits in the model family. The combination promises easier daily driving and a more comfortable experience for buyers who want an automatic without paying a premium. The introduction of this version reflects a broader strategy to offer practical, user-friendly options within the Vesta lineup while staying true to reliability and efficiency that have defined the model for years, a point that resonates with buyers seeking value in both Canadian and American markets.
The model is promoted for efficiency, with a claimed mixed-cycle fuel consumption of 7.3 liters per 100 kilometers. That figure places the new automatic variant among economical choices in its class. For readers in North America evaluating compact sedans, this level of efficiency translates to manageable operating costs in daily use. The design focuses on delivering a calm, predictable driving experience with smooth gear shifts and an emphasis on economical performance on both urban streets and open highways. Overall, the goal is to offer a compelling balance between convenience and cost of ownership.
From the basic Comfort trim, the 1.6-liter engine paired with an automatic transmission is available for both the Lada Vesta sedan and the Vesta SW wagon, with an incremental price tag of fifty thousand rubles. This pricing approach makes the automatic option accessible within the Vesta line without forcing buyers into higher trims. The move broadens the appeal of the model, offering a practical choice for customers who value ease of use and modern transmission dynamics while keeping the overall price attractive in a competitive market.
Earlier reports have noted that in Vesta models equipped with a CVT there were service checks for transmission oil level and the condition of the control electronics. This history reflects the attention paid to CVT variants and the need to monitor wear, oil condition, and potential issues. For drivers in various climates, regular maintenance and careful monitoring of the transmission system were advised to ensure reliability in varying driving conditions. The narrative around CVT reliability has influenced how buyers approached maintenance and purchase decisions for older variants, especially in markets where extended ownership is common.
Previously, the CVT was offered only with a 1.8-liter engine producing 122 horsepower. That configuration offered a different balance of power and efficiency compared with the new 1.6-liter automatic variant. The shift highlights how the Vesta lineup has evolved to meet different priorities such as drive feel, fuel economy, and price. The older configuration remains part of the model’s history and helps explain the context of the current expansion within the brand’s global strategy.
Automotive observers noted that a Chinese CVT option known as WLY CVT18 had been proposed as a practical substitute for the Vesta. The assessment stressed reliability when proper installation is performed and maintenance routines are followed. Ensuring smooth acceleration, avoiding overheating, and performing timely oil changes were highlighted as keys to long-term performance. This discussion illustrates how buyers weigh third party or aftermarket solutions in the broader landscape of transmission options for compact sedans.
The latest CVT option bears similarities to the Jatco JF015E unit that was used in Lada cars during the Renault era. The connection to Renault engineering provides a reference point for technicians and enthusiasts considering service options, parts availability, and the general behavior of the transmission in different driving scenarios. This parallel helps explain why CVT-based drivetrains have held appeal for quiet operation and efficient feel among owners as the model moved through multiple generations.
Earlier, owners of older Lada Vesta models began to upgrade their cars, seeking newer configurations that paired modern engines with automatic transmissions. The evolving lineup and ongoing model refreshes have encouraged some owners to explore updated variants that blend contemporary powertrains with familiar chassis dynamics. This trend mirrors a broader market move toward convenient, fuel-efficient options in the compact sedan segment, shaping both ownership experience and potential resale considerations for the Vesta family.