The Lada Vesta SW Cross 1.8 (122 hp) Automatic is a crossover vehicle produced by the Russian automaker Lada starting in 2017. It represents a significant step for Lada, blending the practicality of a station wagon with the increased ground clearance and rugged styling cues of a crossover. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.8-liter engine and a five-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a comfortable and accessible option within the Vesta SW Cross lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle. It’s built on the Lada B/C platform, also known internally as the 1HX0 platform, shared with other Vesta models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | Vesta |
| Generation | Vesta SW Cross |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (122 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg, 28 UK mpg, 9.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 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 | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 5900 rpm |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 3700 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 3700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | VAZ-21179 |
| Engine displacement | 1774 cm3 (108.26 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 | 7 l (7.4 US qt, 6.16 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 825 l (29.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal, 12.1 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Length | 4424 mm (174.17 in.) |
| Width | 1785 mm (70.28 in.) |
| Height | 1537 mm (60.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2635 mm (103.74 in.) |
| Front track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Rear track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Front overhang | 862 mm (33.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 927 mm (36.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 203 mm (7.99 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| 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 | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lada Vesta SW Cross 1.8 Automatic utilizes the VAZ-21179 engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated design, meaning it doesn’t employ turbocharging or supercharging. It features a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine produces 122 horsepower at 5900 rpm and 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque at 3700 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes reliability and affordability over outright performance. The five-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Japan (typically Jatco), is a conventional torque converter automatic. It’s known for its smooth operation but isn’t particularly quick-shifting or fuel-efficient compared to more modern automatic transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8-liter engine paired with the five-speed automatic provides adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.6 seconds, and the top speed is limited to 111.85 mph. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort, with relatively relaxed shift points. This results in a smooth driving experience, but it can feel somewhat sluggish when attempting quick overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel economy and everyday usability rather than sporty driving. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the Vesta SW Cross, the automatic is noticeably slower. Higher-output engine options, though not commonly available with the automatic, offer significantly improved performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Vesta SW Cross 1.8 Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, an audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and heated front seats. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials. The dashboard layout is functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic flair. The SW Cross trim specifically added plastic body cladding, raised suspension, and roof rails to give it a more rugged appearance.
Chassis & Braking
The Vesta SW Cross features a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. The increased ride height of the SW Cross (203 mm / 7.99 inches) allows it to handle rougher terrain and provides better visibility. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, along with ABS. While adequate for everyday driving, the braking performance isn’t particularly strong. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada Vesta SW Cross 1.8 Automatic was generally well-received in the Russian market as a practical and affordable family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively low running costs. However, the engine and transmission combination were often criticized for being underpowered and lacking refinement compared to competitors from Western Europe and Asia. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to other Vesta SW Cross trims, the 1.8 Automatic offered a balance between price and convenience, appealing to buyers who prioritized ease of driving over performance.
Legacy
The Lada Vesta SW Cross 1.8 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, particularly in terms of its engine and transmission. While not known for its cutting-edge technology, its simplicity contributes to its durability. On the used car market, these models are often sought after for their affordability and practicality. Common maintenance issues include wear and tear on suspension components and occasional problems with the electric power steering system. Overall, the Vesta SW Cross 1.8 Automatic represents a significant improvement in quality and design for Lada, and it remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers in Russia and other Eastern European markets.
