Auto expert assessed the possibility of installing "automatic" in Lada Niva

The costs of introducing automatic transmission to the classic Lada Niva SUV will not cover the future demand for such cars. This opinion was expressed by auto expert Igor Morzharetto.

"Structurally "Niva" is made in the 70s of the last century, when there was no speech about "automatic". The design is quite old, and theoretically it is possible to implant an "automatic" there, but it is expensive, very difficult. Most importantly, it is not very clear whether there will be demand, because "Niva" is bought as the most affordable SUV and they buy it because the price allows," Morzharetto was quoted by TASS on November 25.

The auto expert noted that AvtoVAZ had previously tried to introduce an automatic transmission in the more modern Niva Travel (former Chevrolet Niva), but it became clear to specialists that it would be very expensive to remake the design.

Earlier in November, the head of AvtoVAZ Maxim Sokolov said that the automaker has no plans to install an automatic gearbox on the Niva SUVs. Technically, it is possible to equip "Niva" with such a transmission, but such a modification will not be in demand among buyers, said the domestic car company.

November 8, Vice President for Sales and Marketing of AvtoVAZ Dmitry Kostromin said that the company has no plans to develop and produce a new generation of SUV Lada Niva.

On July 23, Sokolov told that serial production of Lada Niva Sport SUVs will start in December 2024. According to the top manager, next year, more powerful 1.8-liter engines will be installed on the main assembly line for all Niva modifications - first for the Travel and then for the Legend.