The Lada Granta I (facelift 2018) Combi 1.6 16V (98 hp) Automatic is a station wagon variant of the popular Lada Granta, produced from 2018 onwards. Positioned as a practical and affordable family vehicle, this model represented a significant update to the original Granta, incorporating styling revisions and, importantly, offering an automatic transmission option for the first time in this body style. It falls within the broader Granta I generation (based on the 1HX0 platform) and aimed to provide a budget-friendly alternative to more established European and Asian competitors in the entry-level estate car segment, primarily within the Russian domestic market and export markets in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | Granta |
| Generation | Granta I (facelift 2018) Combi |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (98 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| 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 | 13.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 87.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 128.9 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 | 1125-1160 kg (2480.2 – 2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400-435 kg (881.85 – 959.01 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 360 l (12.71 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 675 l (23.84 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4118 mm (162.13 in.) |
| Width | 1700 mm (66.93 in.) |
| Height | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2476 mm (97.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Rear track | 1414 mm (55.67 in.) |
| Front overhang | 806 mm (31.73 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 836 mm (32.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 Lada Granta 1.6 16V Automatic utilizes the 21126 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is a development of the older 2112 series, featuring a 16-valve cylinder head for improved breathing and power output. It employs a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port. The engine’s 11:1 compression ratio contributes to its efficiency, while the naturally aspirated design keeps complexity and cost down. The automatic transmission is a four-speed unit, sourced from Japan (typically Jatco). This transmission was chosen for its relative simplicity and affordability, though it lacks the refinement and efficiency of more modern automatic gearboxes. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for economy and drivability rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 98 hp output and four-speed automatic transmission result in a driving experience focused on practicality rather than sportiness. Acceleration is modest, with a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of around 13.1 seconds. The automatic transmission contributes to a smoother driving experience in urban conditions, but can feel somewhat sluggish during overtaking maneuvers or when climbing hills. The gear ratios are spaced to prioritize fuel economy, meaning the engine often operates at higher RPMs during acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the Granta 1.6, the automatic variant sacrifices some responsiveness and fuel efficiency for the convenience of automatic gear changes. Higher-output versions of the Granta, such as those equipped with the 1.6-liter 106 hp engine, offer noticeably improved performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Granta Combi 1.6 16V Automatic typically came with a base level of equipment, reflecting its position as an affordable family car. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a durable and practical design. Optional extras could include air conditioning, heated front seats, and an upgraded audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally offered incremental upgrades in terms of interior comfort and exterior styling.
Chassis & Braking
The Granta Combi features 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 segment. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing acceptable precision. The relatively lightweight construction of the vehicle helps to mitigate the effects of the modest engine output and braking system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada Granta Combi 1.6 16V Automatic was generally well-received in its target markets as a practical and affordable station wagon. Critics praised its spacious interior, large trunk capacity, and low price point. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of refinement and relatively slow gear changes. Fuel economy was considered acceptable, but not class-leading. Compared to other trims in the Granta lineup, the automatic variant offered convenience at the expense of performance and fuel efficiency. Manual transmission versions of the 1.6-liter Granta offered better fuel economy and a more engaging driving experience, while higher-output versions provided superior performance.
Legacy
The Lada Granta, and specifically the 1.6 16V Automatic variant, has become a common sight on the used car market. The 21126 engine is known for its relative reliability and ease of maintenance, although regular servicing is essential. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not particularly sophisticated, has proven to be reasonably durable. The Granta Combi remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and spacious family vehicle. Its affordability and simple construction make it a relatively easy and inexpensive car to keep on the road.
