UAZ
The Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant has streamlined its core lineup. Two entry models, Patriot and the pickup variants (Classic and Comfort), are now offered in a driver-airbag–free version featuring a redesigned steering wheel. Notably, the steering wheel is an older design that first appeared in Patriots more than a decade ago, before cushions were standard. The updates also include removal of the chrome accents on the grille, and the passenger airbag and ABS systems have been reduced in availability in these configurations.
Additionally, the Hunter, the “bread” model, and the “tadpole” have the option to be equipped with a zero-emission class engine. The propulsion still relies on fuel injection, and engine power remains unchanged. Buyers can save about 20,000 rubles by selecting a vehicle with the more polluting exhaust option (25,000 rubles for minibuses). The price lists also include fifth eco-class variants.
Following the removal of certain concessions from regulatory rules, these configurations will not face an outright ban, but there may be challenges when entering specific zones of major urban centers.
AVTOVAZ
September brought higher prices for simplified subsidies. The base prices stayed the same, while most other equipment lines were increased by 10,000 to 25,000 rubles. In August, Granta and Niva Legend sold better than in the previous year, with the factory reporting a return to pre-crisis levels for these two models, though both are now devoid of some safety features.
On the 8-valve engines used by Grants and Largus (90 hp VAZ‑11182), domestic timing belts from Balakovorezinotekhnika replaced premium Gates units. This change shortened the belt replacement interval from 90,000 km to 45,000 km, prompting many careful owners to plan replacements around the 30,000 km mark. Even though the current engine configuration is considered reliable, there remains a risk if maintenance is delayed.
The XRAY’s fate has been sealed. The AVTOVAZ chief Maxim Sokolov confirmed that XRAY will not return to production. Built on the B0 platform and relying heavily on imported components, the model struggled with sales even in better times, fueling ongoing rumors about its future.
According to Sokolov, AVTOVAZ intends to revive the pre-sanction product lineup next year, with the understanding that XRAY will not be part of it. Earlier, Dmitry Kostromin, Vice President for Sales and Marketing, indicated that the possibility of assembling Renault models under AVTOVAZ’s rights would be considered by the board of directors, though launching them will be more challenging than reviving XRAY.
In addition, the company plans a full crossover on the Vesta platform and a new generation of subsidies two years later, along with a facelifted Renault-Nissan CMF-B platform derivative. A future Niva Legend Sport is also on the horizon, described as a 120-horsepower vehicle powered by a 16-valve engine derived from Grants Sport.
Note: Future AVTOVAZ product updates are often discussed in internal briefings and market reports. [citation: AVTOVAZ internal briefing, 2024].