The Lada Niva Is Deceivingly Simple
The Lada Niva is a 4×4 SUV that has been produced since 1977. It is known for its old-school characteristics and rugged capability. It has been built in a range of different configurations. And in 2020, it received some much-needed updates thanks to Lada taking over production of the Chevy Niva. While the Niva is not sold in the United States, it has been imported to a variety of countries, including Canada. And despite entering the 2022 model year, the Niva is still a simple 4×4 SUV, and that’s not a bad thing.
The Lada Niva now has two different versions
While it may be a bit confusing, the Lada Niva is currently offered in two different versions. This includes the Niva Legend, which is a continuation of the original Niva and then there is the version that carries the Niva badge. The new version was previously known as the Chevy Niva.
Both versions are extremely old. The Niva Legend has been in production for 45 years while the Chevy Niva has been built since 1988. Because of this, the Niva feels distinctively old-school, especially when it comes to modern features.
Lada announces a new Niva for 2024
Although details are slim, AvtoVAZ has teased the Nisan Vision. This is still a concept version, but it looks different than the 4×4 Vision which was showcased at the Moscow Auto Show back in 2018.
According to Renault, which owns AvtoVAZ, the Lada Vision will likely be based on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance CMF-B Platform. This should provide the Niva with a more refined feel. Both on and off the road.
Will the 2024 Lada Niva be sold in North America?
Despite a major update coming for 2024, it is unlikely that Lada will enter the U.S. market. But, stranger things have happened. With the new construction, the partnership between Lada and Dacia will grow. And that is thanks to the CMF-B Platform the Lada Niva Vision will use.
In addition to a new Lada Niva being released, Lada is also working on other SUVs as well. But the Lada Niva Legend will continue to be the more off-road, bargain 4×4 vehicle. And much like the Suzuki Jimny, we can only imagine just how successful, a cheap, boxy SUV would be on American shores. Unfortunately, meeting U.S. regulations is no easy task. And it would be a serious investment for Renault to make.
Is the Lada Niva good?
Depending on your perspective, the Niva is either a good SUV or a horrible offering. It is dated, but still continues its initial mission of being an off-road vehicle, ready to handle harsh Russian rural areas.
Additionally, the Lada Niva is relatively affordable. If it were sold in the United States, it would easily be one of the cheapest SUVs on the market. Which would allow more off-road enthusiasts to find a worthy, new 4×4 without having to splurge on something like the Jeep Wrangler. Plus it is a much simpler vehicle. Which some people place a high value on.
