UAZ Unveils Riviera Edition of the Bukhanka Minibus in Ulyanovsk
The Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant is advancing toward the debut of a Riviera edition of its iconic UAZ Bukhanka minibus. A prototype of this special version was showcased to Dmitry Chernyshenko, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Government of the Russian Federation, during his visit to the Ulyanovsk region. The presentation was reported by Drome Portal, underscoring the significance of the project within the company’s broader lineup and regional development plans. The Riviera variant is positioned as a travel-friendly, adventure-ready adaptation, designed to appeal to enthusiasts who value practical space, reliability, and the spirit of exploration on Russia’s diverse road networks. The event highlighted the collaboration between UAZ and local partners to ensure the model meets demanding road and terrain conditions while maintaining a comfortable, user-centric interior for long journeys. (Drome Portal)
Externally, the Riviera stands out with a vivid two-tone paint scheme that adds a bold, modern character to the familiar Bukhanka silhouette. It rides on wide-width wheels mounted on lightweight alloy rims, enhancing stability and on-road presence while also improving off-road performance on varied surfaces. Inside, the cabin centers on comfort and adaptability. The seats are described as exceptionally comfortable and are designed to transform the living space with flexible configurations, including the ability to convert the rear sofa into a bed for overnight excursions. This kind of modularity is aligned with the Riviera’s mission: to serve travelers who love car-based tourism, spontaneous weekend getaways, and the practical realities of remote destinations where space and versatility matter most. A partner company within UAZ is expected to handle the re-equipment and customization process for the Riviera, ensuring that the vehicle satisfies both functional needs and safety standards during real-world trips. (Drome Portal)
Historically, UAZ’s “Loaf” line has been a staple of the Russian automotive landscape since 1965, earning a reputation for rugged reliability and simple, robust engineering. The current iteration features a 2.7-liter ZMZ-409 engine delivering 112 horsepower, paired with a five-speed manual transmission, and complemented by all-wheel drive and a downshift capability that enhances control in challenging terrain. This powertrain combination is a characteristic strength of the model family, providing sensible torque and dependable performance across rural roads, gravel lanes, and uneven city streets alike. The Riviera edition builds on this heritage by integrating contemporary comfort and convenience features that broaden its appeal to a broader audience of explorers and everyday users. (Drome Portal)
In another note connected to the broader automotive industry discourse, deputy Vitaly Milonov publicly advocated for removing the Latin alphabet from branding by automobile companies and favoring the Zhiguli name, a signal of ongoing debates about national branding, heritage, and consumer recognition. While not directly tied to the Riviera project, this controversy situates UAZ’s efforts within a wider conversation about identity and tradition in Russia’s automotive sector. The dialogue around language and branding echoes the tension between modern innovation and historical branding that many manufacturers navigate as they craft new models aimed at both domestic buyers and potential international customers. (Drome Portal)