en.Wedoany.com Reported - Russia's Avtovaz unveiled a facelifted version of the classic Lada Niva Legend SUV at the 2026 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. This model, which has been in continuous production for nearly 50 years since its debut in 1977, receives significant upgrades. While the exterior retains its classic boxy silhouette, the body structure and powertrain have been comprehensively updated. The new car was displayed alongside the production-ready Azimut SUV and a classic VAZ-2101 sedan, though Avtovaz strictly restricted photography, with full details to be revealed upon its official launch later this year.
The facelifted Niva Legend features double-sided galvanized steel on the front end, hood, roof, tailgate, and rear panel, aimed at improving durability in harsh conditions and providing this nearly 50-year-old model with its first-ever rust-proofing capability. Inside, the steering wheel is sourced from the Lada Granta sedan, allowing the Niva to be equipped with a driver's airbag for the first time. The ignition switch has been moved to the right side, the gearshift lever is positioned closer to the driver, and the transfer case now operates with a single lever. A new large infotainment display has been added to the center console. The vehicle also features upgraded sound insulation, heating, and air conditioning systems, with a newly added cabin filter improving ventilation through a redesigned hood intake. Additionally, central locking has been added, and the doors and ignition now share a single key.
Regarding the powertrain, the original 1.7-liter engine has been replaced by a 1.8-liter 8-valve engine sourced from the Niva Travel. The new engine produces 89 horsepower (66 kW / 90 PS) and 153 Nm of torque, representing increases of 7 horsepower (5 kW) and 24 Nm over the previous model. This engine delivers 80% of its torque at 1,000 rpm, and fuel consumption is reduced by 3% to 30% compared to its predecessor. The suspension system has undergone "modernization," with the front stabilizer bar moved forward, reportedly improving handling and comfort, while ventilated disc brakes provide sharper braking. Lada states that the facelift incorporates over 100 new components and 60 upgraded parts and assemblies, with all technical characteristics improved. The vehicle is being prepared for production, with pricing to be announced later.
At the same event, Lada also showcased two models aimed at motorsport enthusiasts: the Vesta TCR and the new Iskra TMS. The Iskra TMS, developed by TMS Motorsport in collaboration with AvtoVAZ, is planned for a low-budget single-make series set to launch in 2027. This sedan version features a custom bumper, wide-body wheel arch extensions, a rear spoiler, a roll cage, racing alloy wheels, and upgraded suspension settings. It is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine producing 215 horsepower (160 kW / 218 PS) and 280 Nm of torque, with power transmitted to the front wheels via a 6-speed sequential manual transmission.
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