What is more profitable to buy - Lada Vesta or Kalina-2, which was called Granta
Lada Kalina-2 is one of the models whose owners dream and plan to switch to Lada Vesta in the near future.
The second Kalina, and now it is called Granta, lived up to expectations. We didn't expect trouble-free operation. They hoped for a simple design that would allow the driver to operate it himself. After a year and a half of operation and 30 thousand mileage, the only thing that infuriates me in this car is the moving rear view mirror. It was inherited from the VAZ-2108. The design, compared to what it was, is heaven and earth. Kalina or Vesta, what to choose from these cars? Many people who are planning to buy a car ask this question.
Interior
Compared to the original version, the interior of the Lada Kalina has been significantly redesigned. Gone is the combination of black and beige plastic, the awkward shape of the center console, bloated air vents and uncomfortable ergonomics. They worked much more carefully on the new version of the interior - in the center of the dashboard there is a large display, the arrangement of keys and dial controls has become much more convenient and logical, the dashboard has acquired wells and poisonous green backlighting, the upholstery of the door panels and other interior elements have changed slightly. But the revolution did not happen - only the most obvious defects and shortcomings were eliminated in the model.
The interior of the Lada Kalina is not bad. But there is nothing outstanding about it either.
Lada Vesta is different inside. Her salon is designed in a modern style. Smooth transitions and lines of the dashboard, 3-spoke multi-steering wheel, titanium inserts, high-quality assembly, thoughtful ergonomics, a display that fits organically into the composition, comfortable seats and a spacious back row. This set of advantages is more than enough to adequately compete with the segment leaders, and Kalina Veste is not a rival at all!
The interior of the Lada Vesta is much more attractive and functional.
Is Kalina-2 good?
What do you like about a car worth 7 thousand conventional units? It warms up well in winter, the stove is simply thermonuclear! A weak air conditioner that does its job, but is not available in all trim levels. On top of the “dashboard” there is a convenient drawer with a lid.
There is a place for a mobile phone if the radio is simple without a screen. And that's what she is. The plastic is cheap and hard, but for the money it's ok. Essentially, what is soft plastic for? Why not lie on it?! There are no big complaints about the car.
There are several minor shortcomings. The knee sometimes rests against the console, sometimes causing bruises. It depends on the driver's build, but it's fine for me. The steering column switches are Soviet, they work a little noisily, but do not break. Convenient hazard warning button, illuminated glove compartment, making it easy to find something in it in the dark.
Let's sum it up
Among Kalina or Kalina Cross, it was Kalina Cross, including the station wagon in our test, when compared, it showed its advantages over the regular variation of the model. If the owner is not embarrassed by the difference in cost and needs a car that is truly balanced in its consumer qualities, then we recommend that you look at this practical product from the domestic giant of the automotive industry.
After the Lada Vesta entered the market, many became convinced that public interest in other AvtoVAZ models would soon fade away altogether. But this is not true, because other cars are produced and sold as before. However, for them the new product has become a powerful competitor, and a considerable number of potential buyers are thinking about the opportunity to save up a little more and purchase a new sedan. A significant part of them initially targeted the Lada Kalina.
Will Kalina become a serious rival to Lada Vesta at a lower price?
So is it worth abandoning the original goal? Or is Vesta not as good as her creators try to make her out to be? In this case, it is necessary to focus specifically on the usual modification of the Lada Kalina. It’s no secret that it also has a couple of sports versions – Kalina Sport and Kalina NFR. But these are “not for everyone” cars, therefore, they will not become widespread.
The price of the Lada Vesta is higher, but the car is definitely better!
And now a little about Vesta
Headlight, bumper, grille - when you first look at the advertising teasers, you like it. When it comes to body repair, questions arise: how to repair this bumper? The complex-shaped hood is only for replacement. In Lada Vesta I liked the way the doors close - softly, almost like on foreign cars.
The ignition key gets in the way of your foot, and sooner or later it can be broken. Again, it depends on the height of the driver, I have not had such a problem. Apparently they worked on the ergonomics, a calm, comfortable fit. The steering wheel is adjustable not only in height, but also in reach. This is not the case in all foreign cars. We finally learned how to make a little armrest. The buttons are all pressed with the same force, but are not always conveniently located.
When using plastic on the armrest, it will become greasy and black greasy spots will appear. But this is not critical.
The glove compartment is good, the designers have improved the closing mechanism. On the new Kalina (Grant), the glove compartment lid falls onto the passenger’s lap. Not everyone likes it. There is enough space in the back, you can drive comfortably, even on a long journey.
The trunk is good, solid, there is good space for tools in the spare tire niche. The spare wheel is full, with a terrible jack that breaks the sills of every tenth car. But this is nitpicking, you need to work more carefully!
Lada Vesta is a cool car! The noise from the wheels is not audible, unlike Kalina-2, on which the wheel arches are noisy. My head starts to buzz. Lada Vesta has the smell of a new car. You don’t need to get used to it, just sit down and go.
Exterior
Initially, Lada Kalina was considered exclusively as a “workhorse”. Consequently, the attitude towards design was largely characterized by the residual principle. They say that this is not the main thing for such a machine. But after the restyling, the model began to look much more lively and aggressive.
Initially, the Lada Kalina was a simple car. Rather, even too simple.
The front bumper is decorated with a huge air intake supporting a small radiator grille. And under the spectacular headlights there are small foglights located in massive seats.
The new Kalina looks much more interesting from the front!
However, there are an order of magnitude fewer changes in the profile. The same modest and proportional doors, a round tank flap with a recess for opening, front fenders and so on. Perhaps the changes affected only the rims and rear fenders.
On the side, other than the different rear wings and rims, no changes are observed.
The situation is similar with regard to the stern. There are no fundamental changes observed, with the exception of the rear bumper, which has become more massive and powerful, and has also acquired new reflectors and a trim at the bottom.
At the rear, the changes are more noticeable, but they are not fundamental.
The image of Lada Vesta is fundamentally different. She was not a nondescript machine, to which they later tried to instill pseudo-aggressive features. Initially, Lada Vesta was created as a landmark and expressive car - the first representative of AvtoVAZ’s new corporate style. That’s why it looks more harmonious – the headlights, chrome, air intake, foglights, “X” lines and other elements of the front end combine perfectly.
Vesta's front end is much more harmonious.
From the side the impression is the same. A solid, complete product, with logical lines and transitions, stylish rims and considerable ground clearance.
The ground clearance of the Lada Vesta can be the envy of some crossovers.
And the food didn’t disappoint. The chopped lines of the stops are impressive, especially against the background of a modest bumper and a proportional trunk lid, decorated with large letters of the brand name.
Vesta looks great from behind!
What to buy anyway
Will your purchase be a Vesta or a new Kalina under the fresh name Granta when the car has to be changed? Everyone considers this question for themselves. If you drive mainly around the city, where it is difficult to park, then Kalina is better. If you need a car for long roads, then Vesta will be optimal.
Of course, Vesta looks cooler today, and young people are unlikely to buy Granta if they have the money. It is made at a new technical level, equipped with all possible bells and whistles and functions that some foreign cars do not have. Those who have already bought Kalina drive it and are also happy. After all, it consumes less gasoline. For example, on the highway, consumption during leisurely driving is 5.3 liters per “hundred”.
And if you drive in the city, then Grant and Kalina have no equal in terms of efficiency! You can’t play around too much in a Lada Vesta; as they say, you’ll end up out of the woodwork quickly. In terms of parking space, I think everyone understands which car is better.
In general, everyone has their own choice. For this purpose, the plant produces different types of machines so that you can choose. It all depends on the purpose of the car and the needs of the car owner. Each of the models under consideration has its own pros and cons. There are many owners of both brands who will diligently prove that their car is better than others. And everyone will be right in their own way!
What is the price of Kalina and its “cross” version?
The cost of the model has a significant impact on the choice of buyers. The modification we are considering is approximately 30 thousand rubles more expensive than the usual version. Experts tend to believe that this difference is fully justified, since Cross has the following preferences:
- light alloy wheels of increased diameter;
- protective body kit;
- increased ground clearance;
- modified suspension;
- improved exterior.
Compared to the background of the so-called “crossover”, Kalina, which costs about half a million rubles, seems unreasonably expensive. However, one should not discount the availability of such options as:
- automatic transmission;
- "Lux" package;
- systems: stabilization and conditioning.
If you compare them with foreign cars, you will immediately notice that the latter, which have similar options, are priced significantly more expensive.
“Discarding” the issue of price from attention, it can be argued that most buyers will choose Kalina Cross in different bodies, including station wagon, between Kalina or Kalina Cross. This is not surprising, since the modification provides its owner with the following advantages:
- confident maneuverability in different terrain conditions;
- bright and extraordinary appearance;
- decent reliability of suspension elements;
- feeling of drive at high speeds.
If we compare, this performance is a progressive direction and has enviable prospects. When choosing from Kalina 2 or Kalina Cross, many will prefer the new product.
Security and systems
- Driver airbag
- Front passenger airbag with deactivation function
- Rear seat headrests 2 pcs.
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Locking the rear doors against opening by children
- Automatic door locking when driving
- Automatic activation of the hazard warning lights during emergency braking
- Automatic door unlocking and hazard warning lights in the event of a collision
- Immobilizer
- Emergency warning system ERA-GLONASS
- Anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution (ABS + EBD)
- Brake Assist System (BAS)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with shut-off function
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Hill Start Assist (HSA)
- Engine and engine compartment protection
- Electric power steering
- Central locking with remote control
Interior and cabin equipment
- On-board computer
- Gear shift prompt in the instrument cluster
- 60/40 split folding rear seat
- Seat upholstery fabric, color dark gray
- 12V socket
- Height and reach adjustable steering column
- Adjusting the height of the front seat belts
- Cabin air filter
- Folding key
- Power windows for front doors
- Electric drive and heated exterior mirrors
- Audio preparation
Interior and cabin equipment
- Rear seat headrests 2 pcs.
- On-board computer
- Gear shift prompt in the instrument cluster
- 60/40 split folding rear seat
- Interior (optional) Cross Orange orange/Gray gray
- 12V socket
- Electric power steering
- Height-adjustable steering column
- Adjusting the height of the front seat belts
- Cabin air filter
- Central locking with remote control
- Power windows for front doors
- Heated front seats
- Climate system
- Audio system (FM, USB, SD card, Bluetooth, Hands free), 4 speakers
Packages and additional equipment
- Additional payment for metallic body painting 6,000 ₽
- Spoiler 5,771 ₽
- Alloy wheel Arin berd R15 4,214 ₽
- Wheel cap Attica, Granta, Magma, Orbis, Sonar, Arin berd, Largus Cross 70 ₽
- Door deflector kit RUB 1,487
- Hood deflector RUB 1,650
- Interior carpets from 2,249 ₽
- LED flashlight with LADA logo from 527 ₽
- Trunk carpet from RUB 1,524
- Armrest for cars RUR 7,267
- Crankcase protection (original) RUB 1,589
- Set of mudguards from 202 ₽
- Set of front and rear fender liners RUB 3,043
- Parking assistance system (4 sensors) from RUB 2,214
- Parking assistance system (8 sensors) from RUB 8,355
- Trim for trunk opening RUB 1,342
- Radiator protection frame from RUB 1,909
- Set of door sills with model name RUB 1,674
- Set of covers for storing wheels R13-R16 RUB 3,434
- Universal trunk loading carpet RUB 2,404
- Complete trunk from RUB 4,222
- Aerodynamic roof box (gray embossing) RUB 17,287
- Mount on the trunk for transporting skis (4 pairs) and snowboards (2 pairs) RUB 3,256
- Mount on the trunk for transporting a bicycle (aluminum) RUB 3,024
- Cargo basket 1200x700 (aluminum) 5,004 ₽
- Trunk organizer with warning triangle RUB 1,658
- Towbar with installation kit RUB 3,436
- Wiring kits are required to connect the towbar socket RUB 642
- Car compressor RUB 1,419
- Security system with two-way communication from RUB 7,848
- Security and telematic system from 7,315 RUR
- Anti-theft lock Garant Bastion 2024 T Single 13,063 ₽
- Protection of the standard ignition switch Guarantor from RUB 7,736
- Motorist kit from RUB 1,563
- Telematic system from RUB 9,091
- Car radio from 6,528 RUR
- Acoustic system from RUB 3,111
- Passive cabinet subwoofer RUB 6,936
- Combo device 3 in 1 ACV GX-7000 RUB 13,917
- Hidden video recorder AVILINE DVR-B 15,369 RUR
The information on this site does not constitute an offer as defined by Article 437 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation. Information about prices and vehicle options indicated on the website is for informational purposes only and is indicative. The prices indicated may differ from the actual prices of authorized official dealers and other car dealerships.
Comparison of parameters
At the first glance at her appearance, Vesta’s prestige and swiftness immediately catches the eye, which makes a favorable impression. And the appearance of Kalina is associated with retro; it benefits from the fact that there is a greater variety of body options in the model range. Nowadays, swiftness and elegance of the body are in fashion, which is confirmed by the appearance of Vesta. The presence of a subframe gives greater rigidity to the body.
Technical features of the machines
Power point
Both cars have the same power units. The exception is the Vesta version, which has a Nissan engine installed. When comparing the gearbox, Vesta also retains the advantage. There are two options: the French type JH3 510 and the Russian one, deeply modernized from the Priora VAZ-2180. This allowed not only to reduce noise, but also to improve the quality of work and the clarity of gear shifting.
Specifications
Engines
Now the Lada Vesta is offered with only one engine, but this meager line will be expanded over time and there will be four engines. Kalina is equipped with three engines.
The Lada Vesta is equipped with a 106-horsepower, injection domestic power unit. At around 5,800 rpm it produces maximum output, and its peak thrust, which reaches 148 Nm, occurs at 4,200 rpm. With it, Vesta accelerates to hundreds in 11.8 seconds, giving a maximum of 178 km/h. It is noteworthy that this engine is the top one for the Lada Kalina, and no changes are made to it. However, the hatchback with it is more dynamic than the Vesta - changing hundreds on it takes 11 seconds, and the maximum speed is 3 km/h more (181 km/h). With automatic transmissions the situation is somewhat different. In this case, Vesta has, albeit a small, advantage in both respects - acceleration in 12.5 seconds. versus 12.9 sec. and a peak speed of 178 km/h versus 175 km/h.
The 106-horsepower Russian engine is installed on both Vesta and Kalina.
Another Lada Kalina engine is a 98-horsepower, 1.6-liter unit. To get all l. With. it needs to be revved up to 5,600 rpm, and at 4,000 rpm the engine produces its greatest thrust of 145 Nm of torque. A special feature of the configuration is that the power unit is combined exclusively with an automatic transmission, which affects the dynamics of the car - Kalina manages to reach a hundred in only 13.8 seconds, with a top speed of 171 km/h.
Kalina's 98-horsepower 16-valve engine is coupled exclusively with automatic transmission.
The third, and weakest, Lada Kalina engine is an 87-horsepower, 8-valve unit. This is a budget version of the model. Its power is small and achievable at 5,100 rpm, but the torque is quite decent and reaches 140 Nm at 3,800 rpm. Dynamic characteristics are not great, but 12.2 sec. for a set of hundreds at 168 km/h maximum do not look so bad. The same engine is planned to be installed on the Lada Vesta, which will reduce the price of the sedan and make it even more competitive.
This budget engine produces 87 hp. pp., they intend to install it on the Lada Vesta.
In addition, we can soon expect the appearance under the hood of the Lada Vesta of a 110-horsepower HR16DE-H4M engine, which Alliance Renault Nissan shared with AvtoVAZ, and a 1.8-liter domestic power unit. The latter is the latest development of the Russian concern and is already installed on the X-Ray model, as well as a foreign engine. Soon they will appear under the hood of the Lada Vesta.
Lada Vesta will also receive a motor from the Alliance.
Transmissions
Both models offer three types of gearboxes. However, AvtoVAZ’s approach in this regard is different. The Lada Vesta has a pair of 5-speed manual gearboxes - the French type JH3 510 and the Russian MT type VAZ-2180. It is noteworthy that the latter has been modernized in order to keep up with the foreign checkpoint in terms of accuracy of operation. To do this, the “mechanics” from Priora were taken and seriously redesigned, including the use of a different secondary shaft (reinforced), synchronizers and a switching module from the German brand Schaeffler. And the oil volume has been reduced by 30%. All this had a beneficial effect on the clarity and quality of work, reduced background noise and eliminated other disadvantages of the box.
The mechanical transmission of the Lada Vesta works clearly and smoothly!
The Lada Kalina has only one 5-speed manual transmission - the VAZ-2181 type. In general, it is not bad, but in performance it is inferior to Vesta’s transmissions. The lever vibrates, switching is not so clear, and background noise takes its toll. In general, all the shortcomings that the creators of Vesta struggled with remain.
But Kalina’s gearbox does not have such advantages!
In addition, Vesta and Kalina have the same 5-band robotic gearbox of the AMT-2182 type, created on the basis of a mechanical transmission by adding an electronic control unit and foreign components. In general, it is quite enough for movement. In the city, the shifts are, of course, more noticeable compared to a classic “automatic” with the same number of gears, but the ride turns out to be quite comfortable and convenient. The robot also performs very well on the track. This box is installed on the Lada Vesta in order to reduce the cost, since it is cheaper than an automatic transmission.
The AMT type robot is the same for both models!
But the Lada Kalina has a traditional torque converter type JF414E from the Japanese corporation JATCO. Despite the fact that the automatic transmission is only 4-band, in the city it fully justifies itself, although on the highway the absence of 5th speed is still noticeable.
The Japanese 4-band automatic transmission from JATCO performs well, especially in the city.
Chassis
For the B segment, both cars have a standard suspension layout. The front axle has MacPherson struts, while a torsion beam is mounted at the rear.
The chassis of Kalina and Vesta are structurally identical - beam and MacPherson struts.
However, the settings of the shock absorbers and other components are different, which affects the handling. Lada Vesta in this regard is more collected and understandable. It steers sharper, turns more enthusiastically, rolls less, and there is almost no wave swing. But in Kalina all this is felt to one degree or another.
However, the handling of the Lada Vesta is noticeably better!
