Lada Kalina 2 is a front-wheel drive "subcompact" (segment "B" by European standards) car, presented in two body versions: a five-door hatchback and station wagon. In fact, this model is a “product” of a deep modernization of the “original Kalina”, from which it borrowed all its positive qualities, but at the same time it became more modern, more comfortable and more technologically advanced.
The second generation of the "berry car" ("getting rid" of the three-volume body) made its debut at the end of August 2012 - at the Moscow Motor Show ... but it "got" on the conveyor only in May 2013, and a year later it acquired an "off-road" modification ... The car “felt” good on the Russian market, but every year its sales “impressed” AvtoVAZ management less and less - as a result, in the summer of 2018, Kalina went down in history (having joined the ranks of Granta modifications).
In 2012, AvtoVAZ introduced the "second" generation hatchback - the fruit of the first modernization that affected this model since the distant 2004. The car acquired a modern appearance, attractive interior design and modernized equipment, but cheap finishing materials remained with him.
The second incarnation of the "charged" version of the VAZ five-door made its debut in 2014, at the same time it went on sale. In addition to the aggressive appearance (thanks to the unique aerodynamic body kit), this hatch “flaunts” a 118-horsepower engine, sports suspension and disc brakes “in a circle”.
The station wagon of the 2nd generation debuted in 2012, and in 2013 it reached the "counters" of official dealers. This car, from its predecessor, is distinguished by a nice exterior design, a slightly more spacious interior and a decent technical part for a state employee.
Details
Suspension tuning features. The 2nd generation Lada Kalina suspension is more versatile than on 1st generation cars. The car is quite manageable both in the city and on the highway. At the same time, some characteristic weaknesses remained during the transition to a new generation: body rolls when cornering at speed and buildup of the body by lateral gusts of wind.
Weak spots. The most frequently breaking units and assemblies of Kalina 2 include:
- clutch disc,
- water pump,
- electric power steering,
- front suspension struts,
- as well as components of the vehicle's on-board electrical system.
Design flaws in the cabin. The design flaws of the cabin of the "second Kalina" include:
- easily scratched plastic door upholstery,
- soiled upholstery of chairs,
- weak light of the ceiling light,
- flimsy fastening of the glove compartment opening handle,
- uncomfortable front seats with a short pillow.
Tight turn on the transfer to the manual transmission. Often, the appearance of extra effort when shifting gears is accompanied by extraneous noise. The appearance of these symptoms indicates the need for an oil change.
The engine speed fluctuates. The main reason for the “floating” of revolutions on the 2nd generation Kalina is the incorrect operation of the throttle assembly. To fix the problem, it is necessary to clean the throttle body or replace the entire assembly.
Pressure drop in the fuel rail. The cause of a decrease in pressure in the fuel rail of the engine, as a rule, is a clogged fuel pump strainer. To fix the problem, you need to remove the fuel pump and clean it.
Extraneous noise and creaking when braking. A characteristic problem of the new cars of this family is too hard factory brake pads that make creaking or whistling sounds when braking. The solution to the problem lies in replacing the pads with softer imported counterparts.
The signal of the brake system sensor blinks constantly. If the brake sensor warning light is constantly flashing and the brake fluid level is normal, then the float is likely to be faulty. To fix the problem, you need to replace the brake reservoir cap.
Rear door washer jet not working. If the rear wiper pump is running and fluid is not flowing into the nozzle, then most likely the inlet hose has come off the nozzle. It is necessary to check the quality of fixation of the hose on the nozzle fitting.
The power windows are not working properly. On Lada Kalina 2, the manifestation of the so-called "light music" of power windows is possible (constant flashing of the button backlight). The reason for this problem lies in the failure of the power pack control unit. To fix the problem, you need to replace the control unit.
Water is accumulating in the trunk. If during rain or after driving through puddles water appeared in the luggage compartment, then it is necessary to check the tightness of the installation of the rear lights, the Lada logo and the nameplate on the rear door, the integrity of the rear door seal, the tightness of the installation of the rear side glazing.
In addition, the cause of moisture in the trunk may be natural condensation. In this case, it is necessary to clean the exhaust ventilation valves located in the rear of the body under the bumper.
Quick dirty rear window. Both on station wagons and hatchbacks - without a standard spoiler, the rear window gets dirty very quickly. To fix the problem, it is necessary to install a spoiler that will redirect oncoming air flows to blowing the glass.
Squealing in the rear wheel area. Quite often, Kalina 2 has squeaks in the area of the rear wheel, the cause of which is the unfortunate location of the handbrake cable mounts, due to which it begins to rub against the bottom of the car. To solve the problem, it is necessary to glue the cable with splenitis or bitoplast in the places where the body touches.
Weak luggage compartment lighting. The standard trunk lighting for Kalina 2 is too weak, which is noted by most owners of this car. To improve the quality of the backlight, it is recommended to install a more modern one based on LEDs instead of the standard backlight (for example, using an LED strip attached to 2-sided tape).
The underhood space is heavily polluted. The reason for the entry of a large amount of dirt into the engine compartment is too large gaps above the upper edges of both headlights, as well as above the plastic radiator lining. To fix the problem, you need to install additional seals using a standard car seal or a door seal from a hardware store.
This section contains reviews of all versions (hatchback and station wagon) Lada Kalina 2 with photos. The main technical characteristics of each modification are indicated (engines and gearboxes, fuel consumption, dynamics and maximum speed, clearance and dimensions, capacity, etc.). As well as the configuration and prices for the new Kalina 2nd generation (in the salons of official dealers of the Lada brand).
5 / 5 ( 1 voice )
The last month of summer in 2012, on the podium of the AvtoVAZ car showroom in Moscow, the hatchback Lada Kalina of the 2nd generation was presented to the general public. When compared with its successor, the car was able to retain recognizable features, but became perceptibly better in appearance and interior, as well as on the technical side.
The following year, or rather on May 16, 2013, the company launched the production of Kalina 2 on the conveyor, and in the summer, buyers could already purchase it. Quite funny, but in order to promote their model, the Russian company chose a slightly slang expression: "Lada Kalina - Full stuffing!". The entire range of Lada.
The appearance of the new car has significantly changed, as the main elements of the design work of modern cars from Europe have been introduced into it. The bow of Kalina now looks much larger and brighter, as motorists are a little tired of the dull look of the previous generation. The power lines of the hood appeared, which narrow towards the radiator grille and create the feeling of an expanding trapezoid. Also, all this gives the exterior of the car a little sporty and aggressive characteristics.
Exterior
The appearance of the second generation Lada Kalina remained recognizable, but received a more harmonious, attractive and modern finish. The nose of the car is decorated with a hood with characteristic ribs, as well as stylish lighting with a darkened background and a massive front bumper with an air intake “mouth” and chrome decor (top-end configurations also have fog lights).
Head optics in a smooth manner passes into a narrow band of the radiator grille. The relief-type bumper installed in front with a massive air intake in the center has fog lights along the edge, which received cover with chrome “cilia”. True, it is worth recognizing that an air intake of this size does not fit perfectly with the overall design of the Lada Kalina 2.
You immediately notice the streamlined shape of a brand new car. They are not at all similar to those angular forms that were present in the previously produced VAZ models. Thanks to the smoothed body corners, the aerodynamic component has improved, which made it possible to reduce headwind noise and make driving at high speeds more comfortable. If you look at the side of the car, you can see the presence of a sloping hood, slightly falling to the rear of the roof, large doorways and large wheel arches.
All this together allows the hatchback to have a light and moderately dynamic silhouette. The fact that there are no stampings on the side body parts is made up for by the presence of door linings, which give the appearance of the car a certain relief against the background of a general smoothing of the exterior. The wheel arches turned out to be a little swollen, and thanks to the high ground clearance of the hatchback, its solidity is felt.
The stern of Lada Kalina 2 turned out to be compact and has beautiful lights, a neat trunk lid and a small bumper with a plastic lining at the bottom, which performs a protective option. As a result, the domestic novelty looks pretty good and fresh, and in terms of design it approaches foreign cars.
The tailgate is decorated with restyled unique optics, which connects the sidewall and the upper part of the rear bumper with its lower element. The brand new rear bumper received a couple of strips of reflectors integrated into it on the sides.
Interior
The salon of the second generation is distinguished by the presence of modern design and high ergonomic performance. Also, the presence of a massive steering wheel with 3 spokes immediately catches the eye, behind which an informative dashboard is hidden, which is represented by two shallow “wells” and a modest monochrome screen of the onboard computer. To the left of the steering wheel, they assigned a place to the control unit for light-amplifying equipment, and under it, they installed an inconspicuous button that is responsible for opening the luggage compartment (this decision can be called one of the most important miscalculations in terms of the ergonomic component).
The center console is mainly a color touchscreen display of the multimedia system, which is covered with a small visor from above. A control panel for the music system was installed under it, and under it there are already 3 rotating “washers” of the air conditioning system. In general, landing in a hatchback is quite comfortable, partly due to the presence of wide-opening doors and a large doorway.
Thanks to large mirrors along with a low window sill line, the car provides good visibility. You can also notice the presence of a box for small things, which was placed on a console installed in the center. Increased the volume of the glove box with a shelf for small things and a pen holder.
There are a pair of cup holders and a pair of niches on the lining of the floor tunnel, handbrake lining, where there is a folding cup holder for passengers sitting behind, a “hint” for switching speeds on the LCD display of the instrument panel, a multimedia system with the Hands free option, an electric recirculation damper drive, new interior paint options, as well as new luggage compartment shelf supports to increase the loading opening.
The climate system looks interesting, which was developed specifically for Lada Kalina 2. It has become quite efficient than on previous cars, and it functions much quieter. The “AUTO” option is also provided (not on all modifications), which can distribute air flows, change the fan speed and control the air dampers automatically.
The driver only needs to set the temperature inside the car. For the future, the company wants to equip the multimedia system with a GSM/GLONASS geo-navigation module. Many systems have been introduced that are designed to increase the level of comfort in the cabin. For example, there is an adjustment of the steering column for the angle of inclination, electric power steering, filtering the air that enters the passenger compartment, a combination of instruments with on-board computer options, an automatic headlight system and a power unit.
In general, the Kalina salon itself was assembled mainly from “hard” plastic, and the steering wheel is the softest part. In principle, there are no complaints about the assembly itself, but there are still some shortcomings that the factory could not cope with. In some places, you can see the joints, and the screws are exposed and are not covered by anything.
If you look at the car from the point of view of a budget hatchback, then comfortable seats were installed on it in front, where there is soft filling and a wide range of settings, and the supply of free space makes it possible to comfortably accommodate even tall people. The sofa installed at the back is quite comfortable for a couple of people, and if there is a special need, it can accommodate three, but there will be enough free space for only two.
The legs do not rest against the backs of the seats installed in front, and there is also enough free space above the head. The luggage compartment of the Lada Kalina of the 2nd generation, about 260 liters. In form, it is quite comfortable, although the wheel arches "eat" a little free space. The rear sofa, if necessary, can be folded in whole and in parts, which as a result will provide about 550 liters of usable volume.
For all versions of cars, a full-fledged spare wheel, a jack and a balloon wrench are included in the equipment. The luggage compartment lid received an electric lock, which can only be opened using a button located to the left of the steering wheel, or in a standard way - with a key.
Specifications
power unit
Hatchback Lada Kalina 2nd generation will come with one of the three power units operating on gasoline. These are 1.6-liter four-cylinder "aspirated". The most initial is considered to be an engine with an 8-valve system (VAZ-11186), where there is a lightweight connecting rod and piston group from Federal Mogul. It can produce about 87 horses at 5,100 rpm.
As a link between the motor and the wheels, there is a 5-speed manual gearbox with a cable drive, or a 4-band Jatco hydromechanical “automatic”. However, regardless of what the gearbox will be, only a front-wheel drive layout is provided for the car.
The car reaches the first hundred in 12.2-14.2 seconds, and the maximum speed is at the level of 161-168 km / h (where there is a higher value with a manual gearbox). In the combined cycle, the engine consumes about 7 - 7.7 liters of fuel per hundred kilometers.
Between them is the presence of the VAZ-21126, a 16-valve gas distribution mechanism with four cylinders arranged in a row. It can develop already 98 horsepower at 5,600 rpm. This motor is synchronized only with an automatic gearbox, which allows it to reach a speed mark of 100 km / h in 13.1 seconds, and the maximum speed is already at the level of 175 km / h. According to the average consumption, the power unit consumes 7.6 liters per 100 km.
Next comes the most powerful 16-valve VAZ-21127, which was equipped with the latest electronic fuel supply system, the electronics were reconfigured and dynamic boost was installed. All this allows him to give out already 106 horsepower at 5,800 rpm. From the very beginning, for such a power unit, only a manual gearbox was provided, which made it possible for the hatchback Lada Kalina of the 2nd generation to pass the mark of 100 km / h in 11 seconds, and the maximum speed of which is about 181 km / h. Moreover, the consumption of the motor is not huge, only about 6.7 liters per 100 km in medium loads.
Chassis
They built Lada Kalina 2 on the VAZ 2190 base, which was subjected to serious improvement. The front axle uses an independent scheme with McPherson struts, and the rear has a semi-independent design with coil springs. The steering of the machine is carried out using the built-in electric power steering, made in Korea. The braking system is represented by ventilated disc brakes in front, and on the rear wheels there are drum mechanisms.
| Modifications | engine's type |
Engine capacity |
Power | Transmission |
Acceleration to 100 km / h, s. | Max speed km/h |
| Lada Kalina hatchback 1.6 MT | Petrol | 1596 cm³ | 87 HP | Mechanical 5st. | 12.2 | 168 |
| Lada Kalina hatchback 1.6 AT | Petrol | 1596 cm³ | 87 HP | Automatic 4 st. | 14.2 | 161 |
| Lada Kalina hatchback 1.6 AT | Petrol | 1596 cm³ | 98 HP | Automatic 4 st. | 13.1 | 175 |
| Lada Kalina hatchback 1.6 MT | Petrol | 1596 cm³ | 106 HP | Mechanical 5st. | 11.0 | 181 |
| Lada Kalina hatchback 1.6 AMT | Petrol | 1596 cm³ | 106 HP | Robotic 5st. | 12.9 | 175 |
Safety
Security systems include:
- Immobilizer.
Passive safety includes:
- Driver airbag;
- Fastening for a child seat ISOFIX.
Active safety and suspension include the presence of:
- Anti-lock braking system with electronic braking booster (ABS+BAS);
- An electronic system that can distribute braking forces (EBD).
In modern conditions, the production of any car is simply unacceptable without the introduction of modern technical means to ensure the proper level of safety. This can also be attributed to the car Lada Kalina 2, which is already standard, the cheapest model has the following:
- Driver's airbag;
- ISOFIX child seat anchors;
- Three-point inertial seat belts.
The most complete set boasts the presence of:
- Airbags for the passenger sitting in front;
- seat belt pretensioners;
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with brake assist (BAS);
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC);
- Traction control system (TCS).
Also included in the hatchback are daytime running lights in the headlights, a high-strength steel body frame, a driver's seat belt warning indicator, side bars, L-shaped rear headrests that can be folded to improve visibility, as well as muting capabilities. multimedia system while driving.
Options and prices
On the market of the Russian Federation, the 2nd generation Lada Kalina car will be sold in three equipment levels - "Standard", "Norma" and "Lux". The most starting equipment "Standard" will be estimated from 447,500 rubles. It will have a fairly small list of snaps. There will be only the presence of electric power steering, 14-inch steel wheels, a front driver airbag, an immobilizer, a pair of power windows and ISOFIX technology for child seats.
There will also be three-point inertial seat belts, a parking light, a combination of instruments with options for a trip computer and an electronic clock, a separate rear-mounted seat, fabric upholstery of the seats, lighting for the glove box and trunk, a tool that includes a jack and a combination wheel wrench.
The steering column can be adjusted for the angle of inclination, which can be said about the adjustable seat belts installed in front of the seats (in height). There will also be an air filter that enters the cabin, athermal windows, a full-size spare wheel and body coloring according to the body color (pastel or metallized).
The Norma package will already have a central lock, a standard audio system, an air conditioner, power windows for the rear doors, a frontal airbag for the passenger sitting in front, ABS, BAS, EBD and an alarm system. There will also be a mirror in the sun visor, a cigarette lighter with an ashtray, heated front seats, an electrically operated tailgate lock with remote control and control from the passenger compartment. The price of this modification will start from 481,500 rubles.
The top-end "Lux" equipment will already come with "full stuffing", where there will be a full-fledged multimedia system with a screen that supports touch input, a system for controlling exchange rate stability, heated seats installed in front, rain and light sensors, electric heating of the front glass, fog headlights, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors with heating option and light alloy wheels.
There will also be an overboard temperature indicator, a glasses case, a safe parking system for the car, body-colored rear-view mirrors, body-colored door handles, black door frames and moldings. Prices for the top option start at 547,800 rubles.
It is important that already in the basic configuration there is an airbag for the driver. More advanced modifications have side inflatable protective curtains, which can be purchased as a separate option.
| Equipment | Price | Engine | Box | Drive unit |
| 1.6 (87 hp) Standard MT | 447 500 | gasoline 1.6 (87 hp) | mechanics (5) | front |
| 1.6 (87 hp) MT Norm | 481 500 | gasoline 1.6 (87 hp) | mechanics (5) | front |
| 1.6 (106 hp) AMT norm | 513 400 | gasoline 1.6 (106 hp) | robot (5) | front |
| 1.6 (106 hp) MT Norma | 519 200 | gasoline 1.6 (106 hp) | mechanics (5) | front |
| 1.6 (106 hp) Lux MT | 547 800 | gasoline 1.6 (106 hp) | mechanics (5) | front |
| 1.6 (98 hp) AT Norm | 564 200 | gasoline 1.6 (98 hp) | automatic (4) | front |
| 1.6 (106 hp) Lux AMT | 567 800 | gasoline 1.6 (106 hp) | robot (5) | front |
Advantages and disadvantages
Machine advantages
- Comfortable car;
- Acceptable build quality;
- Modern and quite stylish appearance of the hatchback;
- There is a choice between powertrains;
- Increased motor power;
- More convenient location of sensors and scales;
- An airbag is present even in the basic configuration;
- There is a reliable suspension, which has an increased resource;
- Improved aerodynamic component of the machine;
- Good ride height;
- Comfortable salon;
- Pretty good front soft seats;
- Lots of free space;
- The presence of a touch screen;
- Good top-end equipment;
- Quite low consumption of power units;
- Reinforced body.
Cons of the car
- Even in the basic configuration, the price of the car is very high;
- Small amount of luggage compartment;
- Pretty light steering wheel with no feedback from the road surface;
- Noisy and rather outdated 8-valve power unit;
- Hydraulic headlight adjustment;
- There is no sensor on the prior panel that shows the temperature of the coolant;
- Still poor build quality;
- Appearance for an amateur;
- Weak engines;
- Low level of security;
- The back row is convenient only for two passengers, the third will be extremely uncomfortable.
Summing up
After the release of the Russian-made hatchback Lada Kalina of the 2nd generation, it is clear that AvtoVAZ does not want to stand still, but wants to move forward, gradually competing with other cars imported even from Europe. The overall appearance of the car has become fresher, it looks pretty, especially the front, youthful, but at the same time stylish. The hood received small stampings, and the side part, or rather the doors, have a characteristic molding.
The aft part has a fairly characteristic appearance for the company. Moreover, there is a large door with a convenient opening, which facilitates the loading and unloading of goods. The salon is certainly far from perfect, there is budget-type plastic, although it does not look the cheapest. The instrument panel is of a standard type, although for some reason it lacks a coolant temperature sensor, a strange decision.
But there is a convenient touch-sensitive small display, which is very convenient to manage. The front seats, as for a budget model, are well upholstered and soft. The back row can comfortably accommodate only two people, the third can sit down, but will experience discomfort. There is enough free space in the car.
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The “second” Kalina fell into my hands during the next test. In it, we collected cars worth up to 500,000 rubles. Only five cars, including Kalina hatchback, which interested me the most.
The VAZ novelty is sold under the slogan “full stuffing”.
I do not understand him. Yes, the hatchback equipment is not bad by the standards of the class, but why stoop to slang?
Finally, a touch screen multimedia system appeared in the luxury Kalina. You can tune the radio on it, select a music file (there is an SD card slot and a USB connector located in the glove compartment). I hope that soon there will be GLONASS. There was no navigation in our car.
In general, the front panel is quite nice. Yes, and plastic, not as oak as it was in Lada Granta. But there are complaints about the seats. The support bolsters on the pillow are too soft. With sharp turns, they are useless, besides, I think, with prolonged use, they will also wash out.
When the car was unloaded from the transporter, they noticed that the tailgate was not closed. Attempts to shut it down were to no avail. It turns out that the door lock is not adjusted. Maybe this is the task of the dealer, but the car should not leave the assembly line like that. Well, the already traditional scattering of screws in the cabin. I remember when I bought my first Zhiguli, I collected “minced meat” from screws and nuts, probably for a month. Everyone wondered where it all came from. In general, how many years have passed, and the models have changed and the situation at the plant is not the same as before, but they still do not spare screws. It's a shame, because because of minor flaws, the impression of a well-finished car is spoiled.
The automatic machine, which proved to be excellent on the Lada Granta, also works well on the hatch. Compared to Granta, sound insulation has also become better. Sitting in the back, you can already talk normally, and not scream. The suspension also left a pleasant impression. Of course, this is not Logan, but somewhere pretty close.
In general, VAZ workers need to remove assembly flaws. Namely, they form a skeptical attitude towards their products. If this succeeds, then you get a good hatchback, with well-tuned running and ground clearance like a crossover.
61 responses to Lada Kalina 2 and “full stuffing”
Summer, hot season. Someone will remember it as a trip to the resort, for someone it will fly by unnoticed in the work process, and someone will still make a gift for themselves and buy a new car. What kind of car to buy, everyone chooses for himself, but why not stop your attention on the novelty of the domestic auto industry - the second generation of Lada Kalina hatchbacks? Let us consider in more detail how this model can please (or upset) us.
Let's start with the history of the car. This will not take too much time, because the Lada Kalina 2 has a very small one. The first copy of Kalina of the second generation left the assembly line in May 2013, and the first sales began at the end of June. It is noteworthy that there are no sedans among the new Kalin models - only station wagons and hatchbacks.
According to the statements of the designers and manufacturers of the car, all its characteristics have been improved compared to the previous generation, the shortcomings have been corrected, the appearance is not inferior to foreign counterparts, and the prices make the car an attractive enough option for domestic consumers to buy. Is it worth taking AvtoVAZ's word about the improved technical characteristics, we will now try to figure it out.
Specifications Lada Kalina 2
The main part of the new "Kalin" is produced with two versions of the 1.6-liter engine: in the standard assembly it will have a manual gearbox and engines of 87 "horses", in a luxury mechanic and 98 hp. The maximum speed of the car will be respectively 169 and 179 km / h, and acceleration to 100 km / h will take 12.4 and 11.6 seconds. At the same time, fuel consumption for any configuration is approximately the same and is equal to 7.3 liters for the combined cycle.
There is also a complete set with a manual transmission and with an engine with a capacity of 108 hp, a maximum speed of 179 km / h, acceleration to 100 km / h in 11.6 s and an average fuel consumption of about 8 l / 100 km.
There is also a “luxury” version of a car with an automatic transmission (the rest of the configurations are only with manual transmission), this option differs little from a car with “mechanics” in terms of characteristics, engine power is 98 hp, acceleration to 100 km / h in 13, 8 s.
The carrying capacity of all cars is the same and is 475 kg, and the trunk volume is 260 liters.
Well, as we see, the auto industry did not deceive with the parameters - small improvements (within 10% in terms of volume and weight of cargo, as well as fuel economy) in Kalina are noticeable compared to the first version.
What's new?
Let's look further. An old problem with not very high-quality components, which added a lot of coins to the treasury of auto repair owners - how did you solve it? The most obvious way was to supply some foreign-made spare parts - this is, in general, what AvtoVAZ did.
Power windows, a generator, a cooling system and a few more parts on Kalina 2 are now imported. Let's hope that now the new reviews of the owners of Lada Kalina 2 will not be full of negativity about the massive failure of generators, as happened after the recent "modernization of viburnum".
It would seem that domestic engineers sign their own insolvency, due to the pervasive use of imported components? Not at all - it’s just that the car has now become even more “foreign” (as you know, the design of the car was also done not by the “Russian Ivan”, but by the Briton Steve Mattin).
A decent multimedia complex appeared as standard with the ability to connect USB devices and even interact with a phone using Bluetooth (you can use the “hands free” system). A complete set of "luxury" is supplied with a navigation system.
In addition, in comparison with the previous generation Kalin, the new car has a more convenient manual transmission with a cable drive, which has reduced gear shifting forces, as well as longitudinal travel and lever play.
The chassis, developed by AvtoVAZ designers together with Renault specialists, has also changed for the better. The car has become more stable and better controlled.
Advantages and disadvantages
Of the advantages of Kalina 2, both testers and new car owners primarily highlight the original design. For more than a dozen years it has been believed that beautiful cars are made only abroad, and the Russian auto industry lagged behind in this regard by at least 10-15 years, but now everything is not so simple.
It is worth noting the increased engine power and a different quality of the dashboard with a more convenient arrangement of gauges and scales. The airbag is now even standard. A reliable suspension now has an increased resource and the front struts are now much more durable than most other domestic cars.
Now about the shortcomings of the new Kalina 2. The disadvantages include, first of all, the too noisy and already fairly outdated eight-valve engine (in the “standard” configuration), then the hydraulic headlight adjustment (only electric adjustment has been installed in other cars for a long time) and the lack on the instrument panel of the sensor showing the temperature of the coolant.
In addition, unfortunately, the quality of the Russian assembly is also “lame” - some small parts can be screwed carelessly or not tightly enough, and in some instances of the car, doors squeak against the body while driving.
Controllability
Handling has gotten better. Thanks to the steering rack - it has become shorter, and the steering wheel can now be turned from one stop to another in just 3 turns, and not 4, as before. The steering wheel itself in the new car is also mounted differently. Due to all this, the sensitivity of control and the rigidity of the steering system have increased. The car reacts faster to the actions of the driver, it has become easier to go around obstacles and bumps on the roadway.
In addition, one cannot help but pay attention to the new anti-lock braking system of the car, which, in the “luxury” configuration, is also supplemented by a stabilization program. The design of the brake system has changed somewhat - some of the parts are now imported.
Suspension and chassis
The front suspension of the Kalina 2 of 2013, compared to the previous model, has a larger stabilizer section and changed, for the better, characteristics of shock absorbers and springs. The rear suspension has become a little stiffer, which reduced the roll of the car and made it more stable on the road. The designers promise to introduce a few more changes to the design of the suspension and chassis by the end of summer, it remains to be hoped that this will only benefit the car.
Salon and comfort
Inside the car, you can see a more convenient arrangement of instruments on the panel, which now looks much better than in the first Kalina. Now it is much more convenient to manage the multimedia system and climate control. And the air conditioning system itself, which is available even in the cheapest versions of the car, has great functionality, not to mention the “Lux” equipment.
The dimensions of the cabin have not changed - however, five people were quite comfortably accommodated there before. But the volume of the trunk, although it has become a little larger, is still not comparable with similar parameters of foreign hatchbacks and even standard domestic cars. But still, there is enough space for several suitcases, and to transport potatoes from the dacha, buy a simpler car. The price of this car model is not the same as before.
Options and prices Lada Kalina 2
The standard equipment of "Kalina 2" in 2013 will cost the new owner in the amount of 324 thousand rubles, the "norm" - 341 thousand rubles, and the prices for the "Lux" package start at 408 thousand rubles.
| Equipment | Price, rub | Engine | Transmission | type of drive | Acceleration to 100 km/h, s |
Consumption city/highway, l |
Maximum speed, km/h |
| 1.6 (8V) Manual Transmission Standard (21921-40-010) | 324 000 | gasoline 1.6l (87 hp) | Mechanics | front | 12,4 | n/a / n/a | 169 |
| 1.6 (8V) Manual transmission Norma (21921-41-012) | 341 000 | gasoline 1.6l (87 hp) | Mechanics | front | 12,4 | n/a / n/a | 169 |
| 1.6 (16V) Manual Lux (21927-42-010) | 408 000 | gasoline 1.6l (106 hp) | Mechanics | front | 11,6 | n/a / n/a | 179 |
| 1.6 (16V) automatic transmission Lux (21922-42-010) | 445 000 | gasoline 1.6l (98 hp) | machine | front | 13,8 | n/a / n/a | 171 |
Instead of the first version of Lada Kalina in 2013, motorists from Russia and neighboring countries received a new version of the car with front-wheel drive - Lada Kalina 2. Due to the popularity of the car, they decided not to change its name. The design and technical characteristics of the model were seriously improved and changed, which affected the front-wheel drive car only for the better, it became more modern, but, at the same time, remained easily recognizable among fans.
Lada Kalina 2 - advantages over the previous version
The new version of Kalina received an excellent modern filling, which is especially noticeable in the full and most expensive luxury configuration. Taking into account the fact that the cost of the model has remained at an affordable level for the population and is in the range between the prices of Priora and Grants, such modern equipment has made the model competitive in the modern automotive market.
Comparing the photos and characteristics of the first and second versions of Lada Kalina, it becomes clear that while retaining the advantages of the previous model, the new version has significantly worked out the bottlenecks and introduced a lot of useful elements and additions.
Among the advantages of the new version are the following:
- Good clearance;
- Salon expansion;
- Additional safety features for the driver and passengers;
- Increasing comfort;
- Significant noise reduction in the cabin and others.
Exterior of Lada Kalina 2
Unlike the first version, Lada Kalina is now available in two body types: hatchback and station wagon, the sedan version has disappeared from the line, now AvtoVAZ offers to purchase a B-class sedan in the form of Lada Granta. As you can see in the photo, the color gamut has expanded, blue, red and orange colors with a metallic sheen have been added. Coloring bumpers under the body has become available already in the minimum assembly.
The shape of the roof of the hatchback remained the same, but the station wagon has fundamentally changed and received roof rails in addition. The optics of the modified Lada Kalina received built-in daytime running lights already in the minimum version. A fairly large air intake on the front bumper is quite appropriate, given the most powerful power unit available for the new second-generation Lada Kalina. The location of the rear lights remained almost the same as in the first version of the model.
The body of the new Kalina has become stiffer, a frontal impact energy absorption zone has appeared, due to which the passenger safety indicators have increased. Also, the body was galvanized in almost 40% of the surface, the overall dimensions of the model and the clearance slightly increased, which became comparable to the ground clearance of some crossovers.
Interior of Lada Kalina 2
The available list of options for the new version of the model is much wider than that of its predecessor. From the initial assembly, an airbag and a seat belt reminder are available for the driver. Also already in the minimum configuration, power windows are available on the front doors. Only hard plastic is used in the interior trim, soft plastic can only be found on the steering wheel and the climate control buttons are rubberized. In the glove box, you can find a port for connecting USB devices.
In the luxury configuration, you can find a seven-inch touch screen, air conditioning and full power accessories, there is also an airbag for the front passenger.
Although the resolution of the multimedia screen is small, but the sensor works clearly and responds to commands immediately, the GLONASS navigation system is also built into the multimedia system. In an expensive assembly, the front seats and windshield are electrically heated, and the rear seats can be folded separately, which cannot be done in the basic configuration, in which the rear sofa can only be folded in one piece.
The trunk volume of the new version of Kalina is 260 liters, it has increased by 10 liters compared to the previous sedan, and in the station wagon, the luggage compartment holds 360 liters without folding the rear sofa. You can open the trunk with a key, in the medium and expensive configuration, just press the button in the cabin or on the key fob. In any configuration, there is a spare wheel in the luggage compartment.
As a drawback to any of the modifications of Kalina, one can note the fact that the windows do not go down to the end in the door, the rear windows generally stop after passing a little more than half.
Technical characteristics of Lada Kalina 2
The overall dimensions of the new Lada Kalina are as follows:
- Length - 4084 mm station wagon and 3893 mm sedan;
- Width - 1700 mm for both bodies;
- Height - 1504 mm station wagon and 1500 sedan;
- Ground clearance - 170 mm (when fully loaded - 145 mm).
Three power plants are available for installation on the new Lada Kalina, the working volume of each of which is 1.6 liters.
The weakest of the engines has proven itself well when installed on the Lada Grant, this eight-valve engine provides 87 hp. With. and is equipped with a lightweight version of Federal Mogul brand pistons and connecting rods. The power of this unit is quite enough to move along city streets and avenues.
The average of the power plants with a capacity of 98 liters. With. already known to motorists by Lada Priore.
The most powerful of the engines is the new 16-valve also with a volume of 1.6 liters. It delivers 106 horsepower. With.
Both the automatic transmission of the Japanese manufacturer Jatco and the VAZ mechanics with a cable drive are available for picking. Thanks to this, in domestic mechanics, gear shifting occurs quite clearly, and there is no vibration on the gear lever. This box can be safely called one of the best in the domestic auto industry. Automatic transmission is available for 87 and 98 hp engines. with., manual transmission is installed with engines of 87 and 106 liters. With.
In the new version of Lada Kalina, an increased caster with minus camber / toe-in is installed on the rear beam. The steering uses a shortened rack, the use of which increases the obedience of the car on the road. Due to the refinement or replacement of shock absorbers, stabilizers, silent blocks and springs, vibration has decreased in the new version of Lada Kalina, the car has become more stable when driving, roll has decreased, steering control and smoothness have increased.
The equipment includes an ABS function with emergency braking assistance, which can improve the safety of passengers in a collision, as well as an ESC function (traffic stability stabilizer) to determine the angular and general speed, pressure in the brake system. In extreme cases and when one of the axles skids, this system helps the driver to cope with skidding by controlling each of the wheels separately.
Compared to the previous version, the operation of the ventilation and heating systems has been significantly improved. Using the joint work of temperature and solar sensors, changes in the vehicle's environment are monitored to maintain a stable temperature regime in the cabin.
Restyling Lada Kalina in 2016
In 2016, Lada Kalina experienced a slight restyling and, one might say, a new body, as not only the hinged elements have changed, but the engine shield has also been strengthened.
Lada Kalina Cross
In the new body, the off-road version of Lada Kalina 2 has some differences. So, this modification is not available with an automatic gearbox with any of the engines.
Lada Kalina Cross is not available in the basic Standard configuration, it appears on sale with the minimum Norm configuration at a cost of 512.1 thousand rubles.
The configuration of the crossover Norma corresponds to the configuration of the hatchback with a set of Norma Comfort options. It turns out that with the same versions, the cost of a cross and a hatchback differs by only 22-24 thousand rubles, but given that the crossover has a more capacious luggage compartment and increased ground clearance to 183 mm, this is not at all expensive.
Lada Kalina Universal
If you need a bulky body without increased ground clearance, so as not to overpay for an off-road version, you can purchase a Lada Kalina in a station wagon.
The cost of a family car in the initial configuration is 447.5 thousand rubles. At the same time, the difference with a hatchback in the same configuration is only 12 thousand rubles.
The same difference persists in more expensive trim levels.
The situation is the same with prices for a crossover and station wagon, only now the station wagon will cost 9-12 thousand rubles cheaper, retaining the same amount of luggage compartment and in return receiving spectacular roof rails, which are included even in the cheapest package.
Lada Kalina Sport
This version stands a little apart from the rest and features different seats and a suspension that lowers the ride height by up to 150mm.
As you can see from the photo, sporty notes appear in the exterior design. The difference in cost with a hatchback is almost 44 thousand rubles in the initial configuration, since the price of Lada Kalina Sport starts at 551 thousand rubles.
Options and prices for Lada Kalina 2 in 2016
There are several options for completing Kalina, these are Standard, Norma Classic, Norma Comfort, Norma Comfort +, Lux and Lux Navigation. They are listed in order of increasing number of options and cost.
The basic equipment of the Lada Kalina Standard in 2016 costs 435.5 thousand rubles.
It includes the following options:
- On-board computer;
- One airbag (for the driver);
- Power windows on the front windows;
- Steering column adjustment;
- Adjusting the driver's seat height;
- Electric power steering column.
The next equipment in terms of cost is Norma Classic, the price of which is 469.5 thousand rubles.
The following options have been added:
- Central locking with remote control;
- Air conditioner;
- Electric heating of rear-view mirrors.
Options Norma Comfort will cost 488.3 thousand rubles.
Compared to the previous one, it also includes:
- Climate control;
- Front passenger airbag;
- Electrically heated front seats;
- Standard audio system with MP3 and CD;
- Handsfree and Bluetooth.
The Norma Comfort + package will additionally include fog lights, while the cost increases to 507.2 thousand rubles.
The Lux package for 535.8 thousand rubles includes the following additional options:
- Rain sensor;
- Light sensor;
- Power windows rear windows;
- Light alloy wheels;
- Staff parking sensors;
- Rear view mirrors electrically adjustable.
The Lux Navigation package differs from the previous one in the presence of a standard navigation system and an ESP stabilization system, while its price will be 563.8 thousand rubles.
