The UAZ 31625 2.89, producing 102 horsepower, is a Russian off-road vehicle manufactured between 1999 and 2005. Part of the larger UAZ 3162 family, it represents a significant evolution of the iconic UAZ-469, a vehicle originally designed for military use. While not officially sold in the United States, the UAZ 31625 and its predecessors have a substantial following among off-road enthusiasts globally, particularly in Eastern Europe and former Soviet republics. It was designed to provide robust, all-terrain capability at an affordable price point, serving as a workhorse vehicle for both civilian and specialized applications.
UAZ 31625 2.89: A Legacy of Ruggedness
The UAZ 31625 is a direct descendant of a lineage that began in the 1950s with the GAZ-69, and continued with the UAZ-469. The 3162 series aimed to modernize the platform while retaining its core strengths: exceptional off-road performance and durability. The 31625 variant specifically denotes a refinement of the 3162, featuring improvements to the engine, interior, and overall build quality. It was intended to bridge the gap between purely utilitarian vehicles and more comfortable, everyday transportation, though it always prioritized capability over luxury. The vehicle’s design reflects a pragmatic approach to engineering, prioritizing function and reliability over aesthetic concerns.
Engine & Performance
The UAZ 31625 2.89 is powered by a 2.89-liter (176.36 cubic inches) inline four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 102 horsepower and 211 Nm (155.63 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2800 rpm. While not a powerhouse in terms of raw output, the engine’s torque characteristics are well-suited to off-road driving, providing sufficient low-end grunt for navigating challenging terrain. The engine is longitudinally mounted and utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system. The power-to-weight ratio of 19.8 kg/Hp (50.5 Hp/tonne) and torque-to-weight ratio of 9.6 kg/Nm (104.5 Nm/tonne) contribute to its respectable, if not blistering, performance. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 140 km/h (86.99 mph). The engine’s simplicity and robust construction contribute to its reliability, even under harsh operating conditions. It features an Overhead Camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with 2 valves per cylinder.
Design & Features
The UAZ 31625 is a five-door, seven-seat off-road vehicle. Its body-on-frame construction provides exceptional strength and durability, essential for tackling rough terrain. The vehicle’s design is distinctly utilitarian, with a boxy shape and minimal ornamentation. This design prioritizes practicality and ease of maintenance. The interior is spartan but functional, offering ample space for passengers and cargo. Key features include a part-time four-wheel-drive system with high and low range gearing, allowing for exceptional traction in a variety of conditions. The suspension utilizes a trailing arm setup at the front and a leaf spring arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride on and off-road. Safety features, while limited by the vehicle’s age and intended market, include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The vehicle’s high ground clearance and short wheelbase contribute to its impressive off-road capability. The 90-liter (23.78 US gal) fuel tank provides a substantial range for extended journeys.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | UAZ |
| Model | 31625 |
| Generation | 31625 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.89 (102 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 140 km/h / 86.99 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 19.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp |
| Power per litre | 35.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 211 Nm @ 2800 rpm / 155.63 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2890 cm3 / 176.36 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l / 6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2020 kg / 4453.34 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 2820 kg / 6217.04 lbs. |
| Max load | 800 kg / 1763.7 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l / 23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal |
| Length | 4630 mm / 182.28 in. |
| Width | 1828 mm / 71.97 in. |
| Height | 1948 mm / 76.69 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm / 108.66 in. |
| Front track | 1445 mm / 56.89 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1445 mm / 56.89 in. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The UAZ 31625 2.89 represents a continuation of a long and storied tradition of Russian off-road vehicle engineering. While not known for refinement or luxury, its robust construction, all-terrain capability, and affordability made it a popular choice in regions where challenging conditions demand a dependable and capable vehicle. Its legacy continues today, with UAZ continuing to produce off-road vehicles based on similar principles.
