The Lada Kalina II Hatchback, specifically the 2192 variant powered by the 1.6-liter engine producing 106 horsepower, was a key model in Lada’s lineup from 2013 to 2018. Positioned as a mainstream, affordable compact car, the Kalina II represented a significant step forward for the Russian automaker in terms of design, build quality, and available features. This particular engine and transmission combination – the 1.6L paired with a 5-speed manual – served as a core offering, balancing cost-effectiveness with acceptable performance for everyday driving. It was intended to appeal to a broad customer base seeking practical transportation in the Russian and Eastern European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lada |
| Model | Kalina |
| Generation | Kalina II Hatchback (2192) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (106 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 106 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 4000 rpm (109.16 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 21127 |
| 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 | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.84 l (8.28 US qt | 6.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1125 kg (2480.2 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 435 kg (959.01 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 240 l (8.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 3893 mm (153.27 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 (Back) track | 1414 mm (55.67 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14; 185/60 R14; 185/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Kalina II variant is the Lada 21127 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a development of the older Lada engine family, but with improvements to fuel injection and engine management. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, which delivers fuel directly to the intake ports, improving efficiency and reducing emissions compared to earlier carburetor-equipped Lada models. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating four valves per cylinder, a configuration that provides a reasonable balance between performance and simplicity. The 21127 engine is known for its robustness and relative ease of maintenance, characteristics valued in the target markets. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The 5-speed manual transmission is a standard unit, offering a conventional gear layout. It’s not known for being particularly refined, but it’s durable and well-suited to the engine’s power output.
Driving Characteristics
The 106 horsepower and 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.6L engine, coupled with the 5-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.5 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 112 mph. The gear ratios were tuned for practicality and fuel economy rather than outright speed. In real-world driving, the engine felt responsive enough for city commuting and highway cruising, but overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. Compared to higher-output versions of the Kalina II, such as those with the 1.6L 87 hp engine, this variant offered noticeably more power and a more relaxed driving experience, especially when fully loaded or traveling uphill. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control and engagement compared to the available automated manual transmission (AMT) option.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6L 106 hp Kalina II typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on essential features. Standard amenities included power steering, central locking, front power windows, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a durable and practical design. Higher trim levels, such as the “Comfort” or “Luxe” variants, added features like air conditioning, heated front seats, rear power windows, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included alloy wheels, fog lights, and a more advanced audio system. The overall interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Kalina II utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable compromise between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension incorporated an anti-roll bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking was typically accomplished with disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety. The chassis was designed to be robust and capable of handling the demands of poor road conditions, common in many of the Kalina II’s target markets. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing reasonably precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lada Kalina II 1.6 (106 hp) was generally well-received in its target markets as a practical and affordable compact car. Critics praised its improved build quality and features compared to previous Lada models. However, it was often criticized for its relatively basic interior and somewhat unrefined driving experience. Compared to other trims in the Kalina II lineup, the 1.6L 106 hp version offered a good balance of performance and fuel economy. The lower-powered 87 hp version was more economical but felt underpowered, while higher-spec versions with more powerful engines were more expensive. Fuel economy figures of around 35 mpg combined were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The Lada Kalina II, including the 1.6L 106 hp variant, played a significant role in Lada’s efforts to modernize its product lineup and improve its reputation. While not a groundbreaking vehicle, it represented a step in the right direction for the Russian automaker. The 21127 engine proved to be a reliable and durable unit, and many Kalina IIs remain on the road today. In the used car market, the Kalina II 1.6L 106 hp is often sought after for its affordability, practicality, and relatively low maintenance costs. Its simplicity and robust construction make it a viable option for those seeking a budget-friendly and dependable vehicle.
