The Lada Granta I (facelift 2018) Liftback 1.6 16V, producing 106 horsepower with an automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration within the Granta model range. Introduced in 2018, this variant aimed to provide a more accessible and convenient entry point into the Granta lineup, particularly for drivers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. It’s built on the Granta I platform, a derivative of the older, but reliable, 2190 series, and positioned itself as a practical and affordable compact car for the Russian domestic market and export territories. The facelift brought updated styling and minor mechanical refinements to the original Granta, enhancing its appeal to a broader customer base.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | Granta |
| Generation | Granta I (facelift 2018) Liftback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (106 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 97.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 106 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 4200 rpm (109.16 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 21127 |
| Engine displacement | 1596 cm3 (97.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1085-1160 kg (2392.02 – 2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400-475 kg (881.85 – 1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 435 l (15.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 750 l (26.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4250 mm (167.32 in.) |
| Width | 1700 mm (66.93 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2476 mm (97.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1414 mm (55.67 in.) |
| Front overhang | 806 mm (31.73 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 968 mm (38.11 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 82 H; 185/60 R14 82 H; 185/55 R15 82 H |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Lada Granta I (facelift 2018) Liftback 1.6 16V Automatic is a five-door liftback sedan produced by the Russian automaker Lada. Introduced as part of the Granta range’s refresh in 2018, this variant combined the practical body style of the liftback with a 1.6-liter gasoline engine and a four-speed automatic transmission. This configuration was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and affordable vehicle for daily commuting and urban driving. The Granta, in general, was intended to replace the aging Lada Classic range, offering a more modern and reliable alternative while maintaining the brand’s commitment to affordability. The facelift brought cosmetic updates, including a revised front fascia and interior enhancements, to further modernize the vehicle.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Granta 1.6 16V Automatic lies the 21127 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake manifold. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and efficiency. The 16-valve configuration helps to optimize the combustion process, resulting in a respectable 106 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 148 Nm (109.16 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The automatic transmission is a conventional four-speed unit, known for its simplicity and reliability, though it lacks the refinement and efficiency of more modern transmissions. This transmission was chosen to provide ease of use, particularly in congested urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The Granta 1.6 16V Automatic offers a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. The four-speed automatic transmission prioritizes smooth shifts over rapid acceleration. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.1 seconds, and the top speed is rated at 183 km/h (113.71 mph). Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty due to the transmission’s inherent inefficiencies. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy and drivability, rather than sporty performance. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. However, the handling is not particularly sharp, and body roll is noticeable in corners. Overall, the driving experience is geared towards practicality and ease of use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Granta 1.6 16V Automatic typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on essential features. Standard amenities included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat utilitarian, design. Optional extras included air conditioning, power windows for the rear doors, and an upgraded audio system. Higher trim levels, if available, might have added features such as alloy wheels, fog lights, and a more comprehensive infotainment system. The emphasis was on providing a functional and affordable vehicle, with optional extras allowing buyers to customize their Granta to their specific needs and budget.
Chassis & Braking
The Granta utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension is a semi-independent torsion beam setup, which is cost-effective and space-efficient. The braking system consists of ventilated disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. This configuration is typical for vehicles in this price segment. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing adequate precision and feedback. Tire sizes varied depending on the trim level, with options ranging from 175/65 R14 to 185/55 R15. The chassis and braking system were designed to provide safe and reliable stopping power and handling characteristics for everyday driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada Granta 1.6 16V Automatic was generally well-received in its target market, primarily Russia and other Eastern European countries. Critics praised its affordability, practicality, and ease of use. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of refinement and fuel efficiency compared to manual transmission options. Compared to other trims in the Granta lineup, the 1.6 16V Automatic offered a more convenient driving experience but sacrificed some performance and fuel economy. The manual transmission versions, particularly those with the 98 hp engine, offered better fuel efficiency and a more engaging driving experience. The Granta competed with other budget-oriented compact cars, such as the Renault Logan and Hyundai Solaris, offering a compelling value proposition for price-conscious buyers.
Legacy
The Lada Granta 1.6 16V Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played an important role in modernizing the Lada brand and providing affordable transportation to a wide range of customers. The 21127 engine and four-speed automatic transmission proved to be relatively reliable, although maintenance costs can be higher due to the age of the design. In the used car market, these Granta models remain popular due to their low purchase price and relatively simple mechanicals. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for age-related issues and the limitations of the older automatic transmission. The Granta ultimately paved the way for newer Lada models, incorporating more modern technology and improved quality.
