The Lada Iskra marks a significant milestone for the Russian automaker. It's their first all-new model in years, aiming to revitalize their lineup amidst ongoing Western sanctions. This small four-door sedan promises a blend of familiar practicality with a dash of modern design.
Under the hood, the Iskra avoids surprises. It borrows proven powertrains from existing Lada models. The base option utilizes a 1.6-liter gasoline engine from the Granta, generating 89 horsepower and paired with a five-speed manual transmission. For those seeking more power, a 1.6-liter mill borrowed from the Vesta offers 105 horsepower. This variant comes with a choice of a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission, catering to different driving preferences.
More intriguing is the story behind the Iskra's platform. While the Renault Group severed ties with Lada in 2022, the Russians cleverly leveraged their past collaboration. The Iskra utilizes a "modern global platform" that has been meticulously reworked for local production. Though Lada emphasizes "technological independence," whispers suggest it's a tweaked version of the CMF-B architecture – a familiar platform used by various Renault, Dacia, and Nissan models. This reengineering allowed Lada to establish a foundation for the Iskra without relying on external resources.
The Iskra's design reflects this blend of heritage and progress. It adopts Lada's signature "X-Design" language, evident in the sculpted fenders and modern LED lighting. Yet, the subcompact sedan proportions bear an uncanny resemblance to the Dacia Logan, hinting at the underlying platform's origins. This approach ensures a familiar feel for existing Lada customers while incorporating a touch of contemporary flair.
The Iskra's story extends beyond its technical specifications and design. It signifies Lada's determination to navigate through challenging circumstances. By capitalizing on past collaborations and investing in reengineering, they've managed to create a new model that leverages existing strengths while paving the way for future independence.
Production for the Iskra is slated to begin in early 2025 at Lada's Togliatti plant. Pricing details will be revealed closer to launch. However, considering the current geopolitical climate, the Iskra is likely to remain exclusive to the Russian market, offering domestic car buyers a fresh option within Lada's established range.