Quite recently, a new domestic SUV Lada Niva Travel appeared on the Russian car market. After it became known that AvtoVAZ specialists were preparing an update for the classic Lada Niva, many car enthusiasts were eagerly awaiting the release of the new product. It must be said that the restyled version of the SUV turned out to be very successful in appearance and can now directly compete with another Russian “all-terrain vehicle” - the UAZ Patriot. It should be noted that both models have both positive aspects and disadvantages, and therefore their comparison must be carried out in more depth in order to finally understand which is better - the Lada Niva Travel or the UAZ Patriot.
UAZ Patriot 2021
Comparison of technical characteristics
Since technical capabilities are the main indicator of any car that motorists pay attention to, they are the ones you need to focus on first when comparing two SUVs. Main parameters of the compared models:
- UAZ Patriot accelerates to the first hundred in 20 seconds, and Lada Niva Travel - in 19 seconds;
- the average fuel consumption indicated by the Ulyanovsk automaker for its car is 13.7-14 liters, while the AvtoVAZ model spends 10.2 liters per 100 km;
- the top speed of the UAZ Patriot is 150 km/h, and that of the Lada Niva Travel is 140 km/h;
- both models are equipped with gasoline power units;
- As a recommended fuel, UAZ allows refueling with AI-92 or 95 gasoline, but Lada Niva Travel consumes only AI-95;
- Both SUVs are equipped with an all-wheel drive system.
In general, it can be noted that both cars are direct classmates and are designed both for traveling around the city and for the ability to overcome off-road conditions.
Machine dimensions
The UAZ body is a classic, an SUV with five doors. The Niva has a three-door body. The similarity between these cars is that one and the other can easily accommodate 5 people. But the UAZ still wins in this matter, since its landing is more comfortable, because it has two rear doors. Also, the dimensions of the UAZ are larger - 4.1 m in length and 1.79 m in width, while the Niva is 3.7 m in length and 1.68 m in width. And the height is significantly different, for example, the UAZ is 2.025 meters, and the Niva, by comparison, is only 1 meter 64 centimeters. It is impossible to give a definite answer which model is better, because both are popular, and it all depends on the specific requirements of the car. The advantage of the Niva, if we talk about size, is its ground clearance. So, the ground clearance of the UAZ is 210 millimeters, while that of the Niva is 220 millimeters. Now regarding the weight. The Niva is lighter, which is logical. This is also influenced by the fact that it does not have a monocoque body and there is no frame. So, a UAZ weighs on average from 2520 to 2550 kg, but, again, a large car weight is not always good, it all depends on many factors.
Engines and transmission
When choosing between the Lada Niva Travel and UAZ Patriot, you must definitely take into account the characteristics of such important units as the engine and transmission. In the case of two domestic models, the advantage is on the side of the SUV from the Ulyanovsk manufacturer. The Patriot can be equipped with one powertrain, but it has an alternative in terms of available transmission. But AvtoVAZ has released an updated car with the usual engine and gearbox that have been installed on it for many years.
Under the hood of the restyled Lada Niva Travel there is a 1.7-liter naturally aspirated engine with a performance of 80 horsepower and a torque of 128 N*m. It is paired with the usual 5-speed manual transmission. For any configuration, the manufacturer offers an all-wheel drive system. This technical design is considered by many car enthusiasts to be the best option for a model designed to conquer off-road conditions.
The Ulyanovsk manufacturer offers a more interesting car in terms of variety of engines and transmissions. The power unit that powers the SUV is a 2.7-liter gasoline engine that operates with and produces torque of 235 N*m. In terms of transmission choice, the UAZ Patriot is offered with a 5-speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission with 6 gears. Since the car belongs to the SUV class, it is equipped with permanent all-wheel drive.
Service cost
If you put all the factors together, it turns out that the UAZ Patriot is noticeably more expensive in terms of maintenance and service. Fuel consumption is quite impressive, plus reliability is far from ideal. Breakdowns do not happen regularly, but sometimes car owners have to visit a car service center or hang out in a garage for several hours to fix them.
Oddly enough, frequent modernizations of the UAZ Patriot became a certain problem. This makes it difficult to find suitable spare parts, which change every now and then. And the more rare a part is, the more expensive it is in the end.
Chevrolet Niva has much fewer serious upgrades. Especially in the technical stuffing component. Spare parts for it can be easily found in markets and car dismantling yards. Plus, the car turned out to be quite reliable, there are no problems with self-service.
Chevrolet Niva wins here. The direct participation in the development of General Motors has a lot to do with it.
Despite the apparent difference and slightly different purposes, Chevrolet Niva and UAZ Patriot are often compared with each other. And if you compare all the components and key characteristics, then identifying a clear favorite is not so easy.
Ride quality, maneuverability and handling
Comparison of these characteristics when analyzing two cars is no less important than technical parameters. First of all, both models are designed to easily overcome off-road conditions, so you need to pay attention to their ground clearance level. Here, the Lada Niva Travel, which has a ground clearance of 220 mm, looks preferable. But for the UAZ Patriot this value is 210 mm. Considering the compactness and relative lightness of the body, the new product from AvtoVAZ looks more preferable.
If we talk about the handling and driving performance of the models, then both cars do not have outstanding characteristics and capabilities in this component. The Lada Niva Travel is characterized by an independent front suspension, built on double wishbones, as well as a dependent rear suspension, which is based on springs. In addition, the car is equipped with anti-roll bars, front disc brakes and rear drum mechanisms.
The UAZ Patriot relies on a fully dependent suspension. At the front it is represented by a spring base and anti-roll bar, and at the rear – an axle built on longitudinal springs. Despite the rather “ancient” version of the design, this solution is one of the most reliable in terms of the possibility of realizing the off-road capabilities of the car.
General information
UAZ Patriot belongs to the category of mid-size SUVs with a frame structure and all-wheel drive. The car has a brutal appearance, excellent practicality and increased cross-country ability.
After its official debut, the model did not change generations, but experienced several restylings. UAZ first showed the updated version in October 2021. As part of the modernization, the appearance was slightly changed, but the interior and technical components were significantly redesigned. After 2 years, another update took place, which barely affected the exterior and interior, but significantly changed the filling of the engine compartment. As a result, the Patriot received a new engine and an upgraded gearbox. We also rebuilt the suspension and improved the performance of the front axle.
UAZ Patriot uses a frame chassis with dependent suspension at the front and rear. Moreover, there is a spring structure in front, and several semi-elliptical longitudinal springs are provided at the rear. The steering mechanism is rack and pinion with hydraulic booster. The front brakes are disc, and the rear are classic drums.
Despite numerous promises and statements, the second generation of Chevrolet Niva never came into being. The reasons can be called different, but the fact remains a fact. That’s why the first generation of Chevrolet Niva still remains relevant.
The first time we learned about Niva under the Chevrolet brand was in 2002. Although in 1998 AvtoVAZ presented the VAZ 2123 project, which was supposed to become a replacement for the old Niva 2121. The project turned out to be interesting, but there was simply not enough money for mass production. Therefore, in 2001, AvtoVAZ sold a license for the project to General Motors, and a year later production of the Chevrolet Niva began. Compared to the VAZ 2123 project, the American concern made over 1000 changes.
The last actual restyling took place in 2014. Chevrolet updated the exterior, and also redesigned the interior and technical components. One of the main innovations was the installation of new seats.
Chevrolet Niva is an all-wheel drive crossover, which is built on the basis of a monocoque body with a front spring independent suspension and a pair of wishbones, as well as a rear spring suspension consisting of 5 rods. Disc brakes were installed in front, and drums were located at the rear. The steering is rack and pinion, supplemented by a hydraulic booster.
Comparison of configurations and prices
Another indicator that makes it possible to figure out which is better - Lada Niva Travel or UAZ Patriot, is the cost of the presented trim levels for SUVs. If we analyze the available price offers for domestic models, then the undisputed favorite here is the car produced by. At the same time, the UAZ Patriot offers a more interesting package in terms of the technical capabilities of the SUV. Therefore, we can say that both models will be able to find their buyer, based on his wishes and preferences.
The recently debuted Lada Niva Travel is offered to customers in five modifications, the cost of which ranges from 747.9 to 905.9 thousand rubles. The level of equipment of the updated SUV can be called quite modest, which is reflected in its cost. In the basic version, we can note the presence of electric mirrors with built-in heating, front electric windows, heated front seats, air conditioning and several driver assistants. The most expensive configuration adds front foglights, tinting, an additional airbag, a rear view camera and a parking assistant, a multimedia system with a 7-inch display and a car alarm.
UAZ Patriot, even in its basic version, will be more expensive than the most “packaged” Lada Niva Travel. The cost of this car ranges from 939 thousand to 1.4 million rubles. The SUV base includes power steering, electric mirrors with built-in heating and turn indicators, a heated rear window with a wiper, an adjustable steering column and a full set of electric windows. The most expensive Patriot is equipped with alloy wheels, roof rails, leather braided multifunction steering wheel, a combined interior, heated rear seats and windshield, climate and cruise control, as well as a host of additional assistants. Thus, despite the higher cost, the Ulyanovsk SUV also has significantly greater capabilities in terms of available equipment.
Equipment and prices (UAZ Patriot)
| # | Equipment | Model years | Cost, rub. | Drive unit | Transmission | Engine, cc. cm | Acceleration from 0 to 100, s | Max. speed, km/h |
| 1 | 2.7 MT Classic Fleet | 2018 — | 892 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 2 | 2.7 MT Football version | 2018 — 2018 | 993 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 3 | 2.7 MT Expedition version | 2018 — 2018 | 1 038 990 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 4 | 2.7 MT Maximum | 2017 — 2018 | 1 017 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 5 | 2.7 MT Optimum | 2017 — 2018 | 828 500 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 6 | 2.7 MT Prestige | 2017 — 2018 | 946 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 7 | 2.7 MT Comfort | 2017 — 2017 | 898 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 8 | 2.7 MT Privilege | 2017 — 2017 | 986 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 9 | 2.7 MT Standard | 2017 — 2017 | 757 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 10 | 2.7 MT Standard+ | 2017 — 2017 | 786 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 11 | 2.7 MT Style | 2017 — 2017 | 1 037 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 12 | 2.7 MT Classic | 2017 — 2018 | 729 500 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 13 | 2.7 MT World of Tanks Edition | 2016 — 2018 | 1 156 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 14 | 2.7 MT Comfort | 2016 — 2017 | 928 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 15 | 2.7 MT Privilege | 2016 — 2017 | 1 008 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 16 | 2.7 MT Standard | 2016 — 2017 | 816 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 17 | 2.7 MT Style | 2016 — 2017 | 1 054 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 18 | 2.7 MT Antarctic Edition | 2020 — | 1 120 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 19 | 2.7 MT Life Style | 2019 — 2020 | 1 017 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 20 | 2.7 MT Maximum | 2018 — | 1 212 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 21 | 2.7 MT Optimum | 2018 — | 1 018 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 22 | 2.7 MT Prestige | 2018 — | 1 139 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 23 | 2.7 MT Classic | 2018 — | 915 000 | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
| 24 | 2.7 AT Optimum | 2019 — | 1 126 000 | Full (4WD) | AT-6 | 2693 | None | 150 |
| 25 | 2.7 AT Premium | 2019 — | 1 282 000 | Full (4WD) | AT-6 | 2693 | None | 150 |
| 26 | 2.7 AT Status | 2019 — | 1 371 000 | Full (4WD) | AT-6 | 2693 | None | 150 |
| 27 | 2.7 AT Edition 1 | 2019 — 2020 | 1 296 000 | Full (4WD) | AT-6 | 2693 | None | 150 |
| 28 | 2.7MT | 2020 — | None | Full (4WD) | MT-5 | 2693 | 20 | 150 |
* — information on prices is for reference only. Check with your local dealer for exact pricing.
Formation of complete sets
In this parameter, SUVs are not fundamentally different from each other. As a rule, everything corresponds to the standard scheme in the domestic automobile industry.
UAZ Patriot equipment
The basic set of options is called Classic and includes the following:
- bumpers are not painted;
- stamped wheels R16;
- seat headrests;
- floor mats in the cabin and trunk;
- power steering;
- central locking.
The average Comfort package is complemented by R16 alloy wheels, audio systems with two speakers, standard alarm, electric front windows, heated rear window and rear-view mirrors, as well as fog lights in the front bumper. The Limited's top-of-the-line option package adds air conditioning, a spoiler, and heated front seats.
Chevrolet Niva configurations
The basic one is simply called: L. It includes the following options:
- security system with central locking and immobilizer;
- steering wheel height adjustment;
- electric front windows;
- power steering;
- fabric interior;
- side rear-view mirrors are unpainted, but are equipped with electric drive and heating;
- full-size spare tire;
- heated feet for rear passengers;
- headlight range control and some other little things.
And the top-end GLS modification also includes a combined interior trim, lighting for rear passengers, aluminum trim throughout the cabin, audio equipment with two speakers and a remote antenna. There are also heated front seats, body-colored side mirrors and door handles, roof rails, P16 alloy wheels, isothermal glass and an aluminum bracket for mounting a spare wheel.
UAZ Hunter equipment
For this SUV, due to its asceticism, everything is even simpler, since there are only two main options: basic and top-end. The database includes the following set of options:
- five sets of seat belts;
- stamped steel wheels R16;
- hydraulic power steering;
- cigarette lighter;
- hydrocorrector of headlights;
- Interior trim in washable fabric.
The top-end equipment does not stand out in anything special, except that it is complemented by fog lights and some changes in appearance: nothing drastic, just linings.
What type of salons do they have?
UAZ Patriot has high ground clearance, which sometimes causes difficulties for boarding not only passengers, but also the driver himself. As a result, Patriots are equipped with special thresholds for the convenience of passengers and the driver entering the cabin.
Exterior view of the Patriot's interior
Shnivy also has a similar threshold, only it is used most often as an element of interior decor, since getting into the salon does not cause much difficulty. The UAZ interior has pleasant seats, which can be made both in Russia and abroad, depending on the year of manufacture of the model. There is a lot of space in the cabin, and the high ground clearance has its advantage - an excellent view of the road surface.
There is not much space in the cabin of the Niva Chevrolet, although it is possible to accommodate 5 people along with the driver. Tall rear passengers will complain about the small amount of space, so the Shniva is designed for an average passenger configuration. The seats and interior trim are pleasing to the eye and pleasantly surprise not only the owner, but also the passengers.
If we compare Shniva vs Patriot, then in terms of capacity the latter wins.
In terms of suspension, we should note the Shniva, which copes well with various types of bumps and handles smoothly on potholes. The Patriot is much tougher in this regard, so you can see that the suspensions of these models are completely different.
Exterior view of the Chevrolet Niva interior
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Maintenance costs
The costs incurred by the car owner during its operation are a fairly important factor that is recommended to be paid attention to. Speaking of two domestic models, it is difficult to find a favorite in terms of savings. Both cars are considered budget and will not require huge expenses for repairs. The only factor that speaks in favor of the Lada Niva Travel is lower fuel consumption per 100 km of travel.
Comfort level
In the LE+ and GLC versions, the Niva does not look like a Spartan car, but the plastic elements of the interior are of no different quality, and the sound insulation is weak. There wasn’t and isn’t a multimedia system (it appeared literally a month ago, but that’s a different story, because it was made on the archaic Windows CE), but these versions have a radio with a pair of speakers. The smoothness of the Shniva's ride also suffers.
The Duster will be somewhat more convenient: thanks to a larger and wider wheelbase, as well as suspension settings, the ride is smoother and more stable, the sound insulation and plastics in the interior are of better quality.
Surprisingly, the Patriot demonstrates even better comfort, and with the latest restyling, the SUV has become even more comfortable. The car would not be much different in its behavior on the asphalt from foreign cars if its chassis were a little quieter. The smoothness of the ride was improved by using small leaf springs, and the “yaw” on the road was achieved by using a steering damper and stabilizer. The comfort of the seats will be appreciated by people with different body types, the steering wheel is adjustable, an optional climate system is available (Niva and Duster have only air conditioning) and all kinds of heating. The multimedia system is not inferior to Duster's, and its screen is located more conveniently.
Previously, the Patriot was not particularly maneuverable, but now its design includes a new type of steering knuckles and a Pro-axle at the front. A transmission mode puck also appeared in the car, so there was no longer any need to manipulate the transfer case levers (this is still implemented on the Niva) and look for a position in which they do not get knocked out.
Soon the Patriot may receive an automatic transmission, which will only increase convenience.
Appearance and dimensions
The appearance of the car is what motorists who want to purchase a new model pay attention to. A modern SUV should look stylish and brutal. And if all motorists have long been accustomed to the appearance of the UAZ Patriot, and it does not have an outstanding and memorable exterior, then the updated Lada Niva Travel can become a bestseller on the market precisely thanks to its fresh exterior.
The restyled version of the SUV from AvtoVAZ has become similar to the Japanese bestseller Toyota RAV4. Such a decision by the manufacturer was not expected by experts, and therefore the car caused a real “wow” effect at the time of presentation. If we talk about the dimensions of the two domestic cars, then the UAZ Patriot will look much more impressive. Among the main indicators are:
- body dimensions of the Lada Niva Travel are 4099 x 1804 x 1690 mm, and for the Ulyanovsk model - 4785 x 1900 x 2100 mm;
- the distance between the axles for Lada Niva Travel is 2450 mm, for UAZ Patriot – 2760 mm;
- the weight of an SUV from AvtoVAZ is 1485 kg, a car from Ulyanovsk is 2000 kg;
- The trunk volume of the Lada is from 320 to 650 liters, for the UAZ – 650-2415 liters;
- The gas tank of the Lada Niva Travel holds 58 liters, and that of the UAZ Patriot – 68 liters.
In general, the SUV from UAZ looks much more powerful, but in the visual department the Lada Niva Travel wins quite seriously.
Salon "Patriot"
As already noted, boarding a UAZ can be difficult. The door threshold is located at a height of more than half a meter, the lack of steps and a narrow handrail under the ceiling make boarding not the most pleasant process.
But inside you feel like “king of the hill” thanks to the very high seating position, which provides excellent visibility. This can also be confirmed in the photo. The UAZ is quite spacious: there is enough space in the cabin for both the driver and rear row passengers. In front there are wide, comfortable seats from the Korean company Daewon with a wide range of settings and lumbar support. By the way, the model provides for adjusting the angle of the split backrest, allowing you to ride reclining.
There are also shortcomings in the cabin. For example, the front seats are heated, but there is no heating control. After a certain time after turning on the heating, it starts to get really hot. After the doors are closed, it is difficult to adjust the front seats - you can’t reach the settings “knobs”, you can’t get your hand through it.
The car has 3 steering positions, which partially covers the instrument scale. The upholstery is made of cheap, cloudy plastic. And other minor issues: friction of the steering wheel, periodic jamming of the cup holder, problems with the handle on the backrest folding mechanism, etc.
It should be noted the luggage compartment of the car. In normal condition it is 1300 liters, and with the rear seats folded down - 3490 liters. In the Patriot Sport version, due to the trimmed body, it decreased to 600-1200 hp.
Salon and trunk
Finishing the comparison of the Lada Niva Travel and UAZ Patriot, one cannot help but dwell on the interior decoration and free space of the cabin of each of the models. In addition, you must take into account the available volume in the trunk, allowing you to transport cargo.
Speaking about each of the models, it should be noted that the interior decoration uses not the highest quality materials, which emphasize the budget status of SUVs. In the interior of the Lada Niva Travel, only a multimedia system control display can be noted, but it is available exclusively in the top-end equipment version. Exactly the same can be said about the capabilities of the UAZ Patriot.
It is surprising that the management of AvtoVAZ did not decide to qualitatively update the interior decoration of the Lada Niva Travel, especially considering the radical change in the appearance of the SUV. The obviously outdated interior, which was also reserved for the model called Chevrolet Niva, has not gone away and significantly worsens the perception of the car, especially after the pleasant impressions of car enthusiasts associated with its updated appearance.
An important indicator in the characteristics of off-road models is the capacity of their luggage compartment. When going on a trip out of town, you definitely need to put a lot of useful items in your car that you can’t do without. Therefore, the undoubted advantage of the car is its spacious trunk. In this case, the advantage goes to the UAZ Patriot model, which can accommodate cargo up to 2415 liters. In comparison with the “tiny” 650 liters of the Lada Niva Travel, this figure is phenomenal.
Interior and luggage compartment
When compared with the SUV before modernization, the updated interior of the Patriot has changed very significantly. Previously, there were many complaints about the low quality of finishing materials and other shortcomings. The manufacturer drew conclusions and tried to correct previously made mistakes.
UAZ Patriot salon
The driver now has a three-spoke multi-steering wheel at his disposal, and the dashboard has become more easy to read and informative. The center console is designed in a minimalist style, while sporting a 7-inch multimedia touch screen. Plus there is single-zone climate control. The front panel was made in the spirit of modern crossovers. But it is important to add that almost all of this is missing in the basic configuration.
The interior of the Patriot is made mainly of inexpensive materials and not the most expensive plastic. But the seats were covered with fabric that was very pleasant to the touch. If you fork out for the top version, the buyer will even get a leather interior.
The interior layout remains the same. It can comfortably accommodate 5 adults. The luggage compartment is also accessible. When traveling, it holds 650 liters of cargo, and with the rear seats folded it increases to 2415 liters.
Having examined the interior that the Patriot offers, you need to take a look at what the Chevrolet Niva has to offer.
Chevrolet Niva interior
The Niva's interior can hardly be called modern and spacious. There is an acute lack of legroom for rear passengers. This drawback is especially pronounced against the backdrop of the Patriot.
The driver was provided with a fairly ergonomic seat, a conventional but comfortable steering wheel, and ergonomic interior space. Extensive glazing provides the important advantage of excellent visibility. In 2014, the Chevrolet Niva received new seats with improved lateral support and headrests.
The trunk here is not bad, considering the size of the car. But in comparison with its competitor it looks downright small. In the standard position of the rear sofa, 320 liters are available. And if you lower the back rows, you get 650 liters. There is no threshold in the trunk, the door opening is very wide, which makes loading and unloading much easier.
Considering the fact that the dimensions of the cars are completely different, it would be unfair to talk about the Patriot’s superiority in luggage compartment and interior space. But the interior design is still better than the product from the UAZ plant. More frequent updates, as well as the desire to impose a fight on foreign cars, forces active modernization. Chevrolet Niva is not one of the key projects, so here the issue of updates is given a minimum of time and effort. Needless to say, if the latest innovations, minor ones at that, were introduced 5 years ago, and the Patriot received a portion of new things literally last 2021.
If you are looking for a car with a modern interior and a huge supply of luggage space, then choose the UAZ Patriot. If the requirements for the back row are not a key parameter, and you do not need to constantly carry a large amount of luggage in the car, the capabilities offered by the Chevrolet Niva will be quite enough for you.
What is better to choose
Despite the fact that both models are the result of the work of the domestic automobile industry, they differ quite significantly. Therefore, it is impossible to definitely choose the Lada Niva Travel or UAZ Patriot. Lada Niva Travel has a more modern appearance and low cost, which speaks in favor of its purchase. In addition, the car’s not so large dimensions make it possible to maneuver in city traffic conditions. For those who can allocate more money for the purchase and want to get a powerful car, you can consider the option of purchasing a UAZ Patriot. The SUV from Ulyanovsk has large dimensions, a high-torque engine and the best level of equipment, which is especially valuable when driving in off-road conditions.
What is better to choose in the end?
The question remains relevant regarding which is better to choose - UAZ Patriot or Chevrolet Niva.
If you need the most versatile car that can take you around the city with a fairly good level of comfort, and, if necessary or desire, conquer off-road conditions, then definitely take the Chevrolet Niva. The main disadvantage of this car is its frankly weak power unit, which requires a large amount of fuel.
If you want to get a real rogue and off-road conqueror, without reference to urban use, then the undisputed favorite will be the UAZ Patriot. The car is large, roomy, brutal. But get ready for the fact that the Patriot will break down more often and the Chevrolet Niva will cost more to maintain. But this is in many ways a unique car that is bought, even despite the obvious and well-known shortcomings.
Other options
Considering competing models from representatives of this class that can be purchased as an alternative, we should note several more high-quality off-road vehicles that have similar capabilities and costs. First of all, the car enthusiast needs to pay attention to the Lada 4x4, which is now sold under the “name” Niva Legend. We also cannot fail to mention such affordable foreign crossovers with off-road capabilities as the Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano. Each of these models has its own advantages that make the car stand out from its main competitors.
Prices
Niva has the most attractive price among the options under consideration - depending on the version, excluding promotions and discounts, the price varies between 630-765 thousand rubles. For the Duster they ask from 700 thousand rubles to 1.115 million rubles, the Patriot is approximately within the same range - from 747 thousand rubles to 1.050 million rubles. Yes, Chevrolet wins here, but it’s not just the cost that will determine everything.
Patriot with an automatic rifle: should I buy it or not? Verdicts of Autoreview journalists and guest authors
Patriot again! This is the fourth time we are “trying it on”: the first was in 2006, then we evaluated the modernizations of 2015 and 2017. And now UAZ has a six-speed Punch Powerglide 6L50 automatic transmission. The former French division of General Motors was bought by Punch Group in 2013. The family of automatic transmissions to which the 6L50 model belongs is known from old Cadillacs and BMWs, and now these transmissions are purchased by Tata, SAIC and a number of other Chinese automakers. Automatic machines are supplied to the UAZ assembly line from a plant in Strasbourg, France. The engine is the same - a 2.7 liter ZMZ Pro petrol four (150 hp).
A two-pedal UAZ Patriot costs at least 1 million 34 thousand rubles, and for “trying on” we got a car in the maximum configuration Edition I with front seats of a new design, two airbags, climate control, heated steering wheel and windshield, 18-inch wheels, locking rear differential and other equipment. Price - 1 million 382 thousand rubles.
Good should be with fists, a patriot with a machine gun, and a Patriot with a machine gun. That's what Zaratu said... It doesn't matter who. The main thing is that the UAZ finally has two pedals!
And this is just some kind of holiday.
I sat down, started it, pulled the disgusting selector lever into "drive", pressed it - and the fun began. Let's go! To be honest, on one wing and without feedback on the steering wheel, otherwise it wouldn’t be a UAZ. But quickly and assertively. Chip tuning helped, but the main thing was a French box with an Indian transfer case. “And Strasbourg’s pie is imperishable between live Limburg cheese and golden pineapple,” as A.S. described it. Pushkin’s life of true patriots two hundred years ago. Truly, in Russia everything changes in ten years, but in two hundred nothing changes: we still import all the most delicious things. UAZ Cosmopolitan?
By the way, appreciate the power of words, the magic of correct naming: Punch Powerglide. Here is the impact, and the power, and the sliding of hot oil flows from the pump wheel to the reactor wheel through the turbine wheel. This proven Jimmy 6L50 unit is the best thing that has ever been in a UAZ. With a double torque reserve.
And now “I have a dream,” as Martin King Jr. used to say. I have a dream - I unbearably want a “loaf” with the same power unit. She is the real UAZ for me. And if even with a “mechanics” I caught an incredible thrill behind the steering wheel, then with such an accommodating and at the same time efficient “automatic”...
Well, the Patriot air conditioner will need to be installed. Or maybe, instead of the Trans-Volga “four”, attach a normal engine to the “automatic”? For example, if you use a Cadillac SRX with the same 6L50 gearbox as a donor, then it’s easy to get a contract V6 3.6 for 70 thousand, and even a Northstar V8. But then the bridges will have to be strengthened. And how to legalize this entire collective farm named after Lennon?
Okay, let it be ZMZ Pro. About what? At least about the lack of a turbodiesel. But thanks for the “automatic machine”. It’s a pity that they won’t install it on commercial vehicles, not to mention military ones - Hunter is not a Humvee, our soldiers will be trampled by tarpaulins. Although two-pedal operation is much preferable in combat conditions.
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Off-road
Despite the presence of some advantages of the Duster and Niva compared to the Patriot when overcoming mud and sand (due to having less weight with normal tires), most often it is the Patriot that is ahead of everyone on the off-road. When fully loaded, its minimum clearance is 21 cm, in the middle part of the base – 30 cm, under the front bumper – 36 cm, departure/entry angles, respectively, 30°/35°. Even the addition of a stabilizer and the use of small leaf springs had no effect on reducing the travel of its suspension, and the excellent cross-country ability is due to the strength of the transmission and high-torque engine. It is possible to purchase a factory rear differential lock, an Offroad package, a winch and off-road tires. The most purposeful can take a closer look at the expeditionary version.
The Niva's engine falters off-road - it lacks power, and the Duster's weak point is the modest suspension travel and viscous coupling, which is prone to overheating during intense slippage. If this happens, the all-wheel drive is turned off, and the car “comes to life” after cooling down.
