The sedan VAZ (Lada) Kalina 2004 - 2013 year modification 1.6 MT (81 hp)

VAZ (Lada) Kalina: A Reliable and Affordable Sedan

The VAZ (Lada) Kalina is a compact sedan that has been a popular choice among drivers seeking a reliable and budget-friendly vehicle. Produced from 2004 to 2013, this car is a testament to Russian automotive engineering, offering practicality and simplicity in a well-designed package. With its 1.6-liter petrol engine and manual transmission, the Kalina is tailored for everyday driving, making it an excellent option for urban commuters and small families alike.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the Kalina is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-4 petrol engine, delivering 81 horsepower and 120 Nm of torque. While it may not be the most powerful engine in its class, it provides adequate performance for city driving and highway cruising. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 13.3 seconds, reaching a top speed of 160 km/h. Fuel efficiency is one of its strong suits, with a combined fuel consumption of 7.8 liters per 100 kilometers, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious drivers.

Design and Dimensions

The Kalina's compact dimensions make it ideal for navigating tight city streets and parking spaces. Measuring 4040 mm in length, 1700 mm in width, and 1500 mm in height, it strikes a balance between interior space and maneuverability. The sedan body style offers a spacious trunk with a minimum capacity of 400 liters, providing ample storage for groceries, luggage, or other essentials. The car's ground clearance of 160 mm ensures decent handling on uneven roads, a feature particularly useful in regions with less-than-ideal road conditions.

Comfort and Practicality

Inside, the Kalina is designed with practicality in mind. The cabin is straightforward and functional, with enough room to comfortably accommodate four passengers. The front-wheel-drive layout and independent front suspension contribute to a smooth and stable ride, while the semi-independent rear suspension ensures decent handling. The car's curb weight of 1080 kg makes it lightweight and easy to handle, further enhancing its driving dynamics.

Safety and Reliability

Safety is a key consideration for any vehicle, and the Kalina comes equipped with basic safety features, including front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. However, it is worth noting that the car received a modest safety rating of 1 in the ARCAP assessment, which may be a concern for some buyers. Despite this, the Kalina has built a reputation for reliability and durability, thanks to its simple mechanical design and ease of maintenance.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Affordable price, good fuel efficiency, compact and practical design, reliable mechanical components, and easy maintenance.
• Cons: Modest safety rating, limited power output, and basic interior features.

Conclusion

The VAZ (Lada) Kalina is a no-frills sedan that delivers on its promise of affordability and practicality. While it may lack the advanced features and high-performance capabilities of more modern vehicles, it remains a solid choice for those seeking a dependable and economical car. Its straightforward design, combined with its ease of maintenance, makes it a practical option for drivers in search of a reliable daily commuter. If you're looking for a budget-friendly sedan that gets the job done, the Kalina is worth considering.