The Lada Vesta 1.6 (106 hp) Automatic, introduced in 2015, represents a significant step forward for the Russian automaker, AvtoVAZ. Positioned as a mainstream, family-oriented sedan, the Vesta aimed to modernize Lada’s image and compete with increasingly sophisticated offerings from global manufacturers in the Russian market and export territories. This particular variant, combining a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with a five-speed automatic transmission, served as a key entry point into the Vesta lineup, prioritizing affordability and ease of use over outright performance. It was built on the Lada B/C platform, internally designated as the 2190 series, representing a completely new architecture for the brand.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | Vesta |
| Generation | Vesta |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (106 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm, 120.3 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 | VAZ-21129 |
| Engine displacement | 1596 cm3 (97.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1230-1270 kg (2711.69 – 2799.87 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1670 kg (3681.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400-440 kg (881.85 – 970.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 4410 mm (173.62 in.) |
| Width | 1764 mm (69.45 in.) |
| Height | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2635 mm (103.74 in.) |
| Front track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Rear track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Ride height | 178 mm (7.01 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15; 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lada Vesta 1.6 Automatic utilizes the VAZ-21129 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a development of the long-running VAZ-2112 series, but with significant updates to improve efficiency and refinement. It features a multi-point fuel injection system and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 106 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The five-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Japan (typically Jatco), was a relatively new addition to the Lada lineup, offering a smoother and more convenient driving experience compared to the standard manual transmissions. While not a particularly advanced unit, it was chosen for its reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The Vesta 1.6 Automatic prioritizes comfortable cruising over sporty performance. Acceleration is modest, taking around 14.1 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel economy, resulting in relatively high gear ratios and a tendency to upshift quickly. This can sometimes lead to the engine feeling strained during overtaking maneuvers or when climbing hills. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty due to the transmission’s inherent efficiency losses. However, the automatic provides a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Automatic trim typically included standard features such as power windows, central locking, air conditioning, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels, such as Comfort and Luxe, added features like alloy wheels, heated seats, a more advanced audio system, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with higher trims offering upgraded fabric or leatherette options. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over aesthetic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Vesta utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Front brakes are ventilated discs, while rear brakes are drums. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The Vesta’s chassis was designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling, but it is not particularly sporty. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering, but the overall handling characteristics are geared towards safe and predictable behavior rather than dynamic performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada Vesta 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received in the Russian market as a practical and affordable family sedan. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and improved build quality compared to previous Lada models. However, the engine’s modest power output and the automatic transmission’s somewhat sluggish performance were common criticisms. Compared to other trims in the Vesta lineup, such as the 1.8-liter versions, the 1.6 Automatic offered lower running costs but less performance. It competed primarily with other budget-oriented sedans from brands like Renault and Hyundai.
Legacy
The Lada Vesta 1.6 Automatic proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain combination. The VAZ-21129 engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. The automatic transmission, while not the most sophisticated unit, has also proven to be reasonably dependable. In the used car market, the Vesta 1.6 Automatic remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious and practical sedan. Its affordability and relatively low running costs continue to make it an attractive option, even as newer and more advanced vehicles become available.
