The Lada Granta I (facelift 2018) Liftback 1.6 16V, producing 98 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 falls within the first generation of the Granta (often referred to as the Granta I), which was itself based on the aging but reliable 2190 platform, a derivative of the original VAZ-2101 design. The facelift brought updated styling and some minor mechanical improvements. This liftback body style, offering a practical blend of hatchback convenience and sedan aesthetics, was a popular choice in the Russian domestic market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | Granta |
| Generation | Granta I (facelift 2018) Liftback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (98 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 174 km/h (108.12 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 90.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 133.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4000 rpm (106.95 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 21126 |
| 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) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Granta variant is the Lada 21126 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, a mainstay of the VAZ/Lada lineup for many years, features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and 16 valves. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, a significant upgrade over earlier carburetor-equipped Ladas, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The 21126 engine is known for its relative simplicity and robustness, though it lacks the sophistication of more modern engine designs. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing the convenience of automatic operation, is a relatively basic unit and contributes to the car’s somewhat leisurely acceleration. It’s important to note that this automatic transmission was not a particularly common offering in the Granta range, and was often seen as a compromise between affordability and driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6L 98 hp automatic Granta Liftback delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.6 seconds, and top speed is around 108 mph. The four-speed automatic transmission has relatively wide gear ratios, which impacts both acceleration and fuel economy. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic suffers a noticeable performance penalty. The automatic also feels less responsive, particularly when attempting to overtake or climb hills. However, for urban driving and commuting, the convenience of the automatic outweighs the performance drawbacks for many drivers. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a reasonably smooth ride, but handling is not particularly sharp.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 16V Automatic Granta Liftback typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, front power windows, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but somewhat dated design. Higher trim levels, available at an additional cost, could add features like alloy wheels, fog lights, and upgraded interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Granta utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing acceptable steering feel. The car’s relatively light weight helps to offset the limitations of the braking system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada Granta, in general, was well-received in the Russian market as an affordable and practical vehicle. The 1.6L automatic variant appealed to buyers who prioritized convenience and ease of driving. However, critics often pointed to the car’s dated design, basic interior, and lackluster performance. Compared to other trims in the Granta lineup, such as the 1.6L manual or the more powerful 1.6L 106 hp version, the automatic offered less performance but greater convenience. Fuel economy was comparable to other Granta models, but slightly lower than the manual transmission versions.
Legacy
The Lada Granta I (facelift 2018) Liftback 1.6 16V Automatic, while not a performance standout, has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle. The 21126 engine is known for its longevity, and the automatic transmission, while simple, is generally dependable. On the used car market, these Granta models are often sought after for their affordability and low running costs. However, potential buyers should be aware of the car’s age and the potential for wear and tear on components like the suspension and brakes. The Granta, and this variant in particular, represents a significant step forward for Lada in terms of build quality and reliability, and it remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
