The Lada Niva Bronto 1.7i (83 Hp) 4×4, produced between 2017 and 2020, represents a significant evolution of the iconic Lada Niva, a vehicle renowned for its rugged simplicity and off-road capability. The Bronto variant, specifically equipped with the 1.7-liter gasoline engine producing 83 horsepower, aimed to modernize the Niva while retaining its core characteristics. It occupied a middle ground within the Bronto lineup, offering a balance between affordability and improved performance compared to earlier, less powerful Niva models. This version was primarily marketed towards customers in Russia and other Eastern European countries seeking a dependable and capable all-terrain vehicle for both work and leisure.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | Niva Bronto |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7i (83 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12 l/100 km (19.6 US mpg, 23.5 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 18 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 18 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 17.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 137 km/h (85.13 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.5 kg/Hp, 64.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10 kg/Nm, 100.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 83 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 49.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 129 Nm @ 4000 rpm (95.15 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6200 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VAZ-21214 |
| Engine displacement | 1690 cm3 (103.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.7 l (11.31 US qt | 9.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1285 kg (2832.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 325 kg (716.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 265 l (9.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 585 l (20.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 300 kg (661.39 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 3680 mm (144.88 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1713 mm (67.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2200 mm (86.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1468 mm (57.8 in.) |
| Front overhang | 665 mm (26.18 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 815 mm (32.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 240 mm (9.45 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | dependent spring suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/75 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lada Niva Bronto 1.7i utilizes the VAZ-21214 engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a descendant of the original Niva engine, but with several updates for improved reliability and emissions. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, a significant upgrade from the carburetor systems found in earlier Niva models. The engine produces 83 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 129 Nm (95.15 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle. The Bronto is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its durability and suitability for off-road driving. While an automatic transmission was not offered for this specific variant, the manual gearbox provides precise control and allows the driver to effectively utilize the engine’s torque in challenging terrain.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7i engine and five-speed manual transmission combination in the Niva Bronto delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 18 seconds, and the top speed is around 137 km/h (85 mph). The engine’s torque curve is relatively flat, providing usable power across a wide range of engine speeds. However, the vehicle’s relatively high weight (1285 kg / 2832.94 lbs) and the engine’s modest output mean that it’s not particularly quick. Compared to potential upgrades like a more powerful engine, this configuration prioritizes fuel efficiency and reliability. The manual transmission’s gear ratios are well-suited for off-road driving, providing ample low-end torque for navigating obstacles. On paved roads, the Niva Bronto feels somewhat agricultural, with noticeable body roll and a firm ride. However, its true strength lies in its off-road capabilities.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Lada Niva Bronto 1.7i, while not a luxury vehicle, offered a reasonable level of equipment for its price point. Standard features typically included power steering, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and basic instrumentation. The interior featured durable, though simple, upholstery. Higher trim levels, if available, might have included features such as upgraded seat fabrics, a more comprehensive instrument cluster, and optional accessories like a radio or air conditioning. The Bronto generally featured a utilitarian dashboard layout with clearly labeled controls. The focus was on functionality and durability rather than aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The Niva Bronto utilizes a robust body-on-frame construction, contributing to its durability and off-road capability. The front suspension is independent, utilizing coil springs, while the rear suspension is a dependent spring suspension setup. This configuration provides ample wheel travel for absorbing bumps and maintaining traction on uneven terrain. The braking system consists of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. While adequate for normal driving conditions, the braking performance is not particularly strong. The vehicle’s high ground clearance (240 mm / 9.45 in) is a key asset for off-road driving, allowing it to clear obstacles with ease.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada Niva Bronto 1.7i was generally well-received in its target markets, particularly among those seeking an affordable and capable off-road vehicle. Critics praised its ruggedness, simplicity, and off-road performance. However, it was also criticized for its relatively slow acceleration, agricultural driving experience, and basic interior. Compared to other trims in the Niva Bronto lineup, the 1.7i offered a balance between price and performance. It was more affordable than models with larger engines, but provided more power than the base models. Fuel economy was reasonable for a vehicle of its type, averaging around 12 l/100 km (19.6 US mpg).
Legacy
The Lada Niva Bronto 1.7i, like other Niva variants, has gained a reputation for its exceptional reliability and durability. The simple engine design and robust construction contribute to its longevity. In the used car market, these vehicles are often sought after by enthusiasts and those seeking a dependable off-road vehicle. While maintenance can be straightforward due to the engine’s simplicity, finding replacement parts may become more challenging as the vehicle ages. The Niva Bronto 1.7i remains a popular choice for those who value practicality, off-road capability, and affordability over luxury and refinement.
