The Lada Granta I (facelifted in 2018) Sedan 1.6 16V, producing 106 horsepower, represents a significant iteration of Lada’s entry-level offering. Introduced as part of the Granta I’s mid-cycle refresh, this variant aimed to provide affordable and practical transportation to the Russian domestic market and export regions. Built on the aging but robust 1HX0 platform – a derivative of the original VAZ-2190 – the Granta sought to modernize Lada’s image while retaining the core values of durability and low running costs. This specific 1.6L 16V engine and 5-speed manual transmission combination occupied a central position in the Granta lineup, offering a balance between performance and economy, appealing to a broad customer base.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | Granta |
| Generation | Granta I (facelift 2018) Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (106 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 98.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 137.7 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 | 21127 |
| 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 | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1075-1160 kg (2369.97 – 2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400-485 kg (881.85 – 1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4268 mm (168.03 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 | 986 mm (38.82 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
INTRODUCTION
The Lada Granta I (facelift 2018) Sedan 1.6 16V (106 Hp) is a four-door sedan that represents a key model in Lada’s post-Soviet revival. The Granta, launched initially in 2011, was designed to replace the aging Lada Classic range, offering a more modern and affordable vehicle. The 2018 facelift brought updated styling, improved interior materials, and refinements to the powertrain. This 1.6-liter, 16-valve engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission was a mainstay of the Granta lineup, providing a balance of acceptable performance and fuel efficiency for budget-conscious buyers. It was primarily sold in Russia and other Eastern European markets, as well as being exported to select developing countries.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Granta variant is the Lada 21127 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a development of the older VAZ-2112 series, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and 16 valves. The engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, providing reasonably efficient fuel delivery. While not a technologically advanced engine by modern standards, it’s known for its simplicity and robustness. The 21127 produces 106 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 148 Nm (109.16 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission is a conventional design, offering a straightforward driving experience. Gear ratios are tuned for economy, with a relatively tall final drive. This transmission is known for its durability, but its shift quality isn’t particularly refined.
Driving Characteristics
The Granta 1.6 16V offers modest performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 10.5 seconds, and the top speed is approximately 184 km/h (114 mph). The engine feels somewhat strained at higher speeds, and overtaking maneuvers require careful planning. Compared to the more powerful 1.6L 8-valve version, the 16V offers slightly better responsiveness and a wider power band, but at the cost of marginally increased fuel consumption. Compared to potential upgrades like a more modern engine, the 1.6L 16V is noticeably less refined and powerful. The suspension is tuned for comfort, resulting in a relatively soft ride, but this also leads to noticeable body roll in corners. The steering is light and lacks feedback.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Granta 1.6 16V typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard was constructed from relatively hard plastics. Higher trim levels offered features such as alloy wheels, fog lights, and a more comprehensive audio system. Safety equipment was limited, typically including only dual front airbags and ABS on some models. The Granta aimed to provide essential transportation at the lowest possible price point, so luxury features were kept to a minimum.
Chassis & Braking
The Granta utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride but doesn’t offer particularly sporty handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums. This configuration is typical for vehicles in this price segment. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing adequate control but lacking in precision. Tire sizes varied depending on the trim level, with 175/65 R14, 185/60 R14, and 185/55 R15 being common options.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada Granta 1.6 16V was generally well-received in its target markets as an affordable and reliable vehicle. Critics praised its low price and practicality, but also noted its basic interior and lack of refinement. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Renault Logan or Hyundai Solaris, the Granta offered a lower price point but lacked the same level of build quality and features. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg). Reliability was generally good, although the engine was known to be somewhat prone to oil leaks over time.
Legacy
The Lada Granta 1.6 16V remains a common sight on the roads of Russia and other Eastern European countries. Its simple design and robust powertrain contribute to its longevity. In the used car market, these Granta models are highly affordable and represent a practical option for budget-conscious buyers. While not a particularly exciting vehicle, the Granta 1.6 16V played a significant role in modernizing Lada’s lineup and providing affordable transportation to a wide range of customers. The engine, while aging, is relatively easy to maintain and repair, making it a popular choice for those seeking a low-cost vehicle with reasonable reliability.
