Logan’s evolution and the expectations for the next generation
The first generation Logan made a strong impression in the Russian market thanks to a spacious cabin, reliable performance, and price parity with local models. It offered generous interior space and dependable insurance of quality, which left little room for serious rivals within the same budget range.
Soon, competition intensified. The second generation Logan preserved the same roomy layout and straightforward design, yet it could not keep pace with newer rivals. In Russia, its sales fell to the higher end of the market, struggling to maintain excitement against newer offerings.
By mid-2022, anticipation turned toward the next generation Logan on the CMF-B platform. The team behind the model has intimate knowledge of the current Logan, having tested it extensively and observed every potential weak point in everyday use and editorial reviews. This deep familiarity informs plans for the upcoming model.
Inside the older Logan, the atmosphere felt basic and a touch dull. The finish appeared budget-minded, soundproofing was modest, and equipment stayed lean. Essential conveniences such as a central armrest or a dedicated phone space were often missing. Critics frequently noted the lack of adjustable steering reach as a notable shortcoming.
By contrast, the interior for the European Logan is expected to be more polished and is unlikely to diverge dramatically for the Russian market. Rich configurations are expected to add features like keyless entry, push-button start, blind-spot monitoring, and an eight-inch multimedia display. For more cost-conscious buyers, a Media Control system with smartphone connectivity is anticipated. The steering wheel should offer two-plane adjustability, and the car is projected to include six airbags, surpassing the four airbags of the earlier Logan.
What will the exterior look like?
Based on variants prepared for other markets, the base models are likely to use straightforward analog instruments. There is a desire to simplify the instrument cluster by removing an unnecessary second arc on the dials, as it can be confusing to read.
In terms of design, the Logan is expected to depart from the Romanian Dacia look and align more with the Turkish market version sold as Renault Taliant. It would feature a distinctive headlight design and avoid the X-shaped side outlet accents. The Turkish base measurements show a longer wheelbase, a slightly longer overall length, and a wider body, while the overall height is reduced compared with earlier iterations.
Engine options
A notable strength across Renault’s Russian lineup is the protective shield guarding the engine compartment. The next Logan is expected to keep ground clearance high to retain capability on rough roads. The current clearance of 172 millimeters is a benchmark, with only a handful of rivals matching or exceeding it. Leaks from Togliatti hint at a version with improved ground clearance, and a sister model similar to the Sandero Stepway could appear as a separate model within the lineup.
Initial powertrains will likely involve familiar engines for the local market, without adopting the European trio of three-cylinder engines. The atmospheric 1.6-liter engine, producing around 113 horsepower, should remain available with manual and CVT transmissions. This will replace older European engines with 82 and 102 horsepower. Local engines from VAZ, delivering about 90 and 106 horsepower, are expected to be offered. European Logan variants have shifted to six-speed transmissions, a move that would align with market expectations. The question remains whether top-end versions will receive a strong 1.3-liter turbo engine carried over from Renault crossovers.
The most serious problems
In comparison to rivals, the second-generation Logan faced handling issues, feeling sluggish and inert in cornering. The steering sometimes produced vibrations on uneven surfaces. Renault has addressed similar problems in other models by switching to electronic power steering, which reduces jolt and improves ride quality. The Logan should maintain its comfortable ride and impressive energy efficiency, which remain among the best in its class. Rear drum brakes are anticipated to stay in place if they help keep the price accessible. The exterior mirrors are expected to be practical but compact, with broader visibility being a focus for future improvements. Reflection and visibility issues have historically stemmed from modest cleaning areas and smudging on the glass during upgrades, an area where improvement is anticipated.
Front seats have been a pain point due to unclear profiles, limited lateral support, short cushions, and few vertical adjustments. These issues are targeted for improvement in the next generation. In terms of space for three passengers, the second row offered adequate room but lacked additional amenities. Essential comfort features like a central armrest and heated seats should appear on higher trims, and the rear opening should be widened to ease access when the back seats are folded. The intent is to address these concerns so buyers feel the improvements in daily use. A long-run review from an established Russian automotive publication highlighted the Logan’s shortcomings and spurred Renault engineers to refine the model for the benefit of customers.
- A test comparison and video of the most affordable foreign car sedans can be found at this link.
- How to save on repair and maintenance of cars of different models is described and presented here.
- Car accessories are affordable and offer practical benefits. The windshield drain, hood and trunk stoppers, and radiator guards are worth considering.
- A new entry from the Russian market from Turkey includes luggage on Turtle Air roof rails, compatible with both standard and integrated roof rails.
- Driving can also be read on Viber.