The Lada Granta I (facelift 2018) Hatchback 1.6 16V (98 hp) Automatic represents a significant iteration within the Granta model range, produced from 2018 onwards. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering, this variant aimed to provide affordable transportation with the convenience of an automatic transmission. The Granta, itself a successor to the Lada Kalina, was designed to modernize Lada’s lineup and appeal to a broader customer base, particularly in Russia and other Eastern European markets. This specific hatchback configuration, coupled with the 1.6-liter engine and automatic gearbox, was intended to attract buyers seeking ease of use and practicality in a budget-friendly package. It falls within the first generation (Granta I) which received a notable facelift in 2018, updating the exterior styling and interior appointments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | Granta |
| Generation | Granta I (facelift 2018) Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (98 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| 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 | 240 l (8.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 555 l (19.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 3926 mm (154.57 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 track | 1414 mm (55.67 in.) |
| Front overhang | 806 mm (31.73 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 644 mm (25.35 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| 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 four-cylinder, inline, naturally aspirated petrol engine with a displacement of 1596 cm3 (97.39 cubic inches). This engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 11:1. The 16-valve configuration (four valves per cylinder) contributes to improved breathing and, consequently, a modest increase in power output compared to earlier 8-valve Lada engines. The engine produces 98 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 145 Nm (106.95 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission. While offering convenience, this transmission is a relatively simple design and lacks the efficiency and smoothness of more modern automatic gearboxes. It’s a traditional hydraulic automatic, known for its robustness but not its responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Granta 1.6 Automatic is characterized by its focus on practicality rather than performance. The 98 hp engine, coupled with the four-speed automatic, results in a 0-60 mph time of around 12.4 seconds and a top speed of 176 km/h (109.36 mph). Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, but overtaking maneuvers require careful planning. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are geared towards fuel economy and smooth operation, rather than spirited acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty due to the transmission’s inherent losses. It also feels less engaging to drive. Compared to higher-spec Granta models with more powerful engines, this variant is noticeably slower and less refined.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Granta 1.6 16V Automatic, in its base trim, typically included features such as power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Safety equipment generally consisted of ABS brakes and driver and passenger airbags. Higher trim levels, available as optional upgrades, could add features like air conditioning, heated front seats, alloy wheels, and a more sophisticated audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple and functional dashboard layout. The overall interior ambiance was basic but durable, reflecting the car’s affordable price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Granta utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension setup at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a reasonable level of ride comfort, although it’s not particularly sporty. 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. Tire sizes varied depending on the trim level, with options ranging from 175/65 R14 to 185/55 R15.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada Granta 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received in its target markets as an affordable and practical vehicle. Critics acknowledged its value for money but often pointed out its basic interior, unrefined engine, and somewhat sluggish automatic transmission. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined fuel consumption figures around 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg). Compared to other trims in the Granta lineup, the 1.6 Automatic offered a balance between affordability and convenience, appealing to buyers who prioritized ease of use over performance. It was often seen as a step up from the base manual transmission models, but a significant step down from the more powerful 1.6 16V manual or the rarer, more sophisticated engine options.
Legacy
The Lada Granta 1.6 16V 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 simple design contributes to its durability. On the used car market, these models are often sought after for their affordability and low running costs. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for corrosion, particularly in regions with harsh winters. The Granta, and this variant specifically, played a crucial role in revitalizing the Lada brand and establishing it as a competitive player in the budget car segment.
