Russian automaker Avtovaz has unveiled the mid-life facelift of its Lada Niva Travel SUV.
The older version of the Lada Niva Travel has already been spotted at Vietnamese ports, raising questions about whether Avtovaz will introduce this upgraded model during the official distribution phase.
The Lada Niva Travel is an improved version of the Avtovaz 2123, previously produced and marketed by General Motors as the Chevrolet Niva from 1998 until the company exited the Russian market in 2022. Since 2021, Avtovaz has revived this model under the Lada brand, naming it the Niva Travel, which offers a more modern alternative to the Niva Legend, a classic off-road vehicle introduced in 1977.
In this latest upgrade, the Lada Niva Travel sports a bolder and more contemporary look. The octagonal grille is larger and positioned higher than its predecessor, complemented by a redesigned front bumper with new air intakes, sharp fog light bezels, and an aluminum skid plate for a robust appearance.
The lighting system has also been enhanced with modern LED graphics, while the overall body shape remains unchanged. The new diamond-cut alloy wheels are believed to be larger than the previous 16-inch rims, adding a muscular touch to the SUV.
Although interior images have not been released, it is likely that the cabin will remain largely similar to the current version.
One of the most notable upgrades in this iteration is the introduction of a 1.8L gasoline engine, replacing the previous 1.7L variant. According to Avtovaz, this engine has been comprehensively improved with over 50 new components in the intake, exhaust, and cooling systems, resulting in increased power output of 90 hp (a gain of 7 hp) and torque of 151 Nm (an improvement of 24 Nm).
However, when compared to current crossover models in the A-segment, such as the Toyota Raize (98 hp) or the Kia Sonet (113 hp), the Niva Travel’s performance still appears modest. Nonetheless, Avtovaz emphasizes that fuel consumption has been reduced by 3% to 30%, depending on driving conditions, along with a significant reduction in noise levels.
The vehicle continues to be equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission and a four-wheel-drive system.
The new Lada Niva Travel also benefits from a chassis upgrade, enhancing stability and handling. It features a new roll bar for the suspension system, ventilated front brake discs, and new wheel hubs, all contributing to improved performance and safety across diverse terrains.
According to the manufacturer, the vehicle has undergone rigorous testing in harsh Russian weather conditions and is set to enter production in Q4 2025.
The Lada Niva Travel is positioned as an affordable off-road SUV, targeting customers with limited budgets who seek a versatile and durable vehicle. In Russia, its price ranges from 16,700 to 20,900 USD (approximately 436 to 546 million VND), depending on the trim and equipment.
The arrival of the Niva Travel in Vietnamese ports indicates Avtovaz’s intentions to venture into the Southeast Asian market. The question remains whether the Russian automaker will introduce this upgraded model to Vietnam during the initial distribution phase or launch the current version first and then offer the upgrade later.
With intense competition among urban SUVs in the segment below 600 million VND, the Lada Niva Travel could be a compelling option if Avtovaz sets competitive pricing and provides adequate after-sales support.
TH (Tuoitrethudo)
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