View source for Lada Niva

{{short description|Russian 4x4 vehicle}}
{{about|the vehicle currently known as the Lada Niva Legend|the Lada Niva Travel|Lada Niva Travel}}
{{about-distinguish-text|the 4×4 vehicle formerly known as the Lada Niva|the compact car known as the [[Lada Riva]] or Lada Nova|the musical group called [[Ladaniva]]}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2020}}{{More citations needed|date=January 2022}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Lada Niva Legend
| image = 1987 Lada Niva 1600.jpg
| caption = 1987 Lada Niva
| manufacturer = [[AvtoVAZ]]
| aka = VAZ-2121 & VAZ-2131 "Niva" (Soviet Union/Russia (1977–1993))<br />Lada Super 4×4 ([[Egypt]])<br />Lada Bushman (Australia)<ref>Lada Australia advertisement for Lada Niva and Lada Bushman, Wheels (magazine), April 1997</ref><br />Lada Cossack (United Kingdom & New Zealand)<br />Lada Turist (New Zealand)<br />Lada Fora<br />Lada Hussar <br />Lada Job (Italy)<br />Lada Sport ([[Iceland]])<br />Lada Niva <br /> Lada Taiga (Germany & New Zealand) <br /> Vlada 4×4 (Japan)
| production = 1977–present
| assembly = [[Amman]], [[Jordan]] (LHJ)<br />[[Quito]], [[Ecuador]] ([[Aymesa]])<br />[[Bucharest]], [[Romania]] (Dunarea)<br />[[Cherkasy]], [[Ukraine]] ([[Bogdan group|Bogdan]])<br />[[Cairo]], [[Egypt]] (Alamal Group)<br />[[Montevideo]], [[Uruguay]] (Bognor)<br />[[Addis Ababa]], [[Ethiopia]] (Holland Car)<br />[[Tolyatti]], Russia ([[VAZ]], [[VAZInterService|VIS]])<br />[[Thebes, Greece|Thebes]], Greece ([[Automeccanica]])<br />[[Ust-Kamenogorsk]], [[Kazakhstan]] (Azia Avto)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aziaavto.kz/hist_eng.htm |title=Ao"Азия Авто" |publisher=Aziaavto.kz |access-date=1 February 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110116210058/http://www.aziaavto.kz/hist_eng.htm |archive-date=16 January 2011}}</ref> <br /> [[Hajigabul]], [[Azerbaijan]] (Azermash)
| predecessor = 
| successor = [[Lada Niva Travel]]
| class = [[Off-road car]]<br />[[Compact SUV]]
| body_style = 3/5-door [[Compact SUV]]<br />2-door [[pickup truck]]<br />2-door [[chassis cab]]<br />3-door [[Panel truck|pickup truck-based van]]<br />3-door [[box van]]<br />2-door [[ambulance]]<br />2-door [[police SUV]]
| layout = [[Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout|Front-engine, full-time four-wheel-drive]]
| engine = {{ubl
 | '''[[Petrol engine|petrol]]:'''
 | 1.6 L ''[[VAZ-2106|2106]]'' [[Straight-four engine|I4]]
 | 1.7 L ''21213/4'' I4
 | 1.8 L ''2131'' I4
 | '''[[Diesel engine|diesel]]:'''
 | 1.9&nbsp;L ''[[PSA XUD engine|XUD9A]]'' I4
 | 1.9 L ''[[PSA XUD engine|XUD9SD]]'' [[Turbo-diesel|turbo]] I4
}}
| transmission = 4-speed [[manual transmission|manual]] (1977–1993)<br />5-speed [[manual transmission|manual]] (1993–present)
| front_suspension = [[independent suspension]] with coil springs
| rear_suspension = 5-link [[live axle]]
| wheelbase = {{convert|2200|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} ([[hatchback]])<br />{{convert|2700|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} ([[station wagon|wagon]]) <br />{{convert|2700|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} ([[pickup truck|pickup]])
| length = {{convert|3740|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (hatchback)<br />{{convert|4240|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (wagon) <br />{{convert|4520|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} (pickup)
| width = {{convert|1680|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| height = {{convert|1640|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| weight = 1,150 kg (2121)<br />1,210 kg (21213/21214)<br />1,350 kg (2131)
| related = VIS-2346/2946
}}

The '''Lada Niva Legend''',<ref name=Ladapress>{{Cite web |title=LADA Niva Legend: the new name for the iconic model – Press-releases – News – Official website LADA|url=https://www.lada.ru/en/press-releases/118503.html|access-date=2021-01-17|website=LADA official website}}</ref> formerly called the '''Lada Niva''', '''VAZ-2121''', '''VAZ-2131''', and '''Lada 4×4''' ({{langx|ru|link=no|ВАЗ-2121, ВАЗ-2131, Лада Нива}}), is a series of [[four-wheel drive]], small (hatchback), and compact (wagon and pickup) [[Off-road vehicle|off-road cars]] designed and produced by [[AvtoVAZ]] since 1977. Initially aimed at the rural market, later models also targeted urban users. The three- and later five-door 4×4 hatchbacks were sold under the [[Lada]] marque in many markets,<ref>https://www.lada.ru/en/ Push cars icon and scroll down</ref> and have been in continuous production since 1977.

In the 1990s, three- and five-door wagons on a {{convert|50|cm|in|0|abbr=on}} longer wheelbase and an extra-long wheelbase pick-up were added to the range.{{Clarify|reason=What does "range" mean here?|date=January 2022}} After the [[Land Rover series|original Land Rover]] and its successor, the [[Land Rover Defender]], were discontinued in 2016, the Niva became the longest-production-run off-road light vehicle still manufactured in its original form. By the end of 2020, an estimated 650,000 Lada Nivas had been sold globally.<ref name="Lada20-12">{{Cite web |title=AVTOVAZ has started production of the new LADA Niva Travel |type=Press Release |url=https://www.lada.ru/en/press-releases/118463.html |date=2020-12-21 |access-date=2021-01-17 |website=LADA official website}}</ref>

The Lada Niva is the world's first mass-produced off-road vehicle with a [[unibody]] construction (fully integrated body and frame).<ref>Six years ahead of the 1983 (for the 1984 model year) American [[Jeep Cherokee (XJ)]].</ref> It is the predecessor of current [[crossover SUV]]s, most of which are built similarly.

In August 2020, Lada took over production of the 2003 [[Lada Niva II|Chevrolet Niva]] and rebranded it the "new" Lada Niva.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://info.avtovaz.ru/press-releases/117703.html |title=Niva возвращается в семью LADA! |trans-title=Niva returns to the Lada family |language=ru}}</ref> In December 2020, the new Niva was further rebranded as the '''Lada Niva Travel''', while the old model was renamed '''Lada Niva Legend''' in January 2021.<ref>{{Cite web |title=AVTOVAZ has started production of the new LADA Niva Travel – Press-releases – News – Official website LADA |url=https://www.lada.ru/en/press-releases/118463.html |access-date=2021-01-17 |website=LADA official website}}</ref><ref name="Ladapress" />

==Name==
Нива<ref>{{Cite web|title=нива (Russian Wiktionary) |date=19 June 2021 |url=https://ru.wiktionary.org/wiki/нива}}</ref> (Niva) is a Russian word that literally means "(corn) field". The name ''Niva ''(НИВА) was formed as an [[acronym]] from the initials<ref>See [[:Wikt:initial#Noun|''initial'']] on Wiktionary.</ref> of Niva's chief designers' children: Pyotr Prusov's two daughters and Vladimir Solovyev's two sons.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Artem Nikitin |title=Внедорожник / Автомобили / Эксклюзивный |trans-title=Automotive / Exclusive / SUV |date=2012-06-18 |url=https://itogi.ru/avto-exclus/2012/25/179138.html |access-date=2021-08-17 |website=[[Itogi Nauki i Techniki|Itogi/Auto Exclusive]] |quote=The first competitor of (the) ''Niva'' appeared only ten years after its release. It was a ''Japanese'' [[Suzuki Vitara]]. Completely slick car! |archive-date=10 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210610163824/https://itogi.ru/avto-exclus/2012/25/179138.html |url-status=dead}}</ref>

The Lada Niva was formerly called the Lada 4×4, or the VAZ-2121 in the domestic Russian market. The name was changed after the brand was transferred to [[General Motors]], though AvtoVAZ retained the rights to the equivalent [[Cyrillic script|Cyrillic]] name: Нива.<ref>{{cite news |title=Новая Шеви-Нива: разморозка |url=https://www.autostat.ru/articles/20671/ |access-date=13 December 2017 |work=Autostat.ru |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171214015046/https://www.autostat.ru/articles/20671/ |archive-date=14 December 2017}}</ref> It was also marketed as the '''Lada Sport''' in [[Iceland]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://fib.is/?FID=2899 |title=Icelandic Automobile Association |publisher=Fib.is |date=21 July 2011 |access-date=27 December 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131110050116/http://fib.is/?FID=2899 |archive-date=10 November 2013 }}</ref> '''Lada Taiga''' in [[Austria]], and '''Lada Cossack''' in the United Kingdom.<ref>Thompson, Andy. ''Cars of the Soviet Union'' (Haynes Publishing, Somerset, UK, 2008), p.239 caption.</ref> In 2014, it was sold as the '''LADA 4×4''' in Russia. Since 2021, it is sold as the '''Lada Niva Legend''' in Russia.<ref name=Ladapress />

==History==

===Prototypes and testing===
The Niva was described by its designers as a "[[Renault 5]] put on a [[Land Rover]] chassis".<ref>{{cite web |title=A quick look at the Lada Niva |url=http://ranwhenparked.net/2011/10/14/a-quick-look-at-the-lada-niva/ |publisher=Ran When Parked |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120114124608/http://ranwhenparked.net/2011/10/14/a-quick-look-at-the-lada-niva/ |archive-date=14 January 2012 |date=14 October 2011 |access-date=3 January 2012}}</ref> Development began in 1971 after the [[24th Congress of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union|24th Congress of the CPSU]], in which [[Alexei Kosygin]] (the then-[[Premier of the Soviet Union]]) gave the designers at VAZ and [[AZLK]] the task of creating a car suitable for rural areas (specifically for the villagers and farmers of the Soviet Union), since the usual [[Zhiguli (car brand)|Zhiguli]], [[Moskvitch]], and [[ZAZ Zaporozhets|Zaporozhets]], intended primarily for ordinary people, were not much of use in the isolated areas that made up a large part of the USSR. In the same year, a team of VAZ designers led by Solovyev began competing with AZLK to work on a "civilized" four-wheel drive vehicle.<ref>Thompson, Andy. ''Cars of the Soviet Union'' (Haynes Publishing, Somerset, UK, 2008), p.180.</ref> The new car was partly inspired by the [[IZh]]-14 prototype of 1974.<ref>Thompson, pp.185–186.</ref> It was VAZ's first model that was not based on [[Fiat]], though many of its mechanics were carried over from the earlier [[Fiat 124]]- or [[Fiat 125|125]]-based Zhiguli models (mostly the VAZ-2103 and 2106); the body, four-wheel drive system, and front suspension were all designed by VAZ. The first prototype appeared in 1971 and was officially designated the E-2121<ref name="auto">{{Cite web |title=Tri vrata 4x4. LADA "NIVA" (2121) – živa legenda |url=https://marshalinstrument.ru/hr/tuning/trehdvernaya-lada-4h4-lada-niva-2121-zhivaya-legenda-proverennyi-vremenem/ |access-date=2021-10-11 |website=marshalinstrument.ru}}</ref> and nicknamed ''krokodil'' (the [[crocodile]]) due to its distinctive frontal section, but was rejected for being too utilitarian, so doors and a [[hardtop]] were added. This version (designated the 2E-2121)<ref name="auto"/> debuted in 1973 and deviated from the off-road vehicles of the period, as it used a modern [[hatchback]] body.<ref name="Thompson, p.187">Thompson, p.187.</ref> The design choice was inspired by the prototype known as the VAZ-1101 (itself derived from the [[Fiat 127]]), and was created by designer Valery Pavlovitch.<ref name="Thompson, p.187"/>

The influence of the Fiat 127 is obvious from the Niva's distinctive "clamshell" hood design and its rear three-quarter section. The 1974 prototype (designated the VAZ-2121M) was derived from an existing model, the [[VAZ-2103]] (then the newest model in VAZ arsenal). It used the VAZ-2103's 1,452 cc engine and shared some of its features, like [[chrome plating|chrome-plated]] bumpers, headlights and taillights, instruments, seats, and steering wheel. In the following year, two samples of the prototype were modified to install a 1,478 cc UZAM-412 engine,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Автомодельное бюро: ВАЗ-2121М "Моська" |url=http://denisovets.ru/vaz/vazpages/vaz3e2121moska.html |access-date=2021-10-11 |website=denisovets.ru}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=ВАЗ-2121М (Моська): Почему "Нива" с двигателем от Москвича не добралась до конвейера – Daily-Motor |date=26 January 2020 |url=https://daily-motor.ru/autonews/69928 |access-date=2021-10-11 |language=ru-RU}}</ref> which originally powered the [[Moskvich 412|Moskvich 1500]]. Testing later revealed that the engine was incompatible with the newly designed car. The Moskvich engine was abandoned, and the older engine was reused. The 1974 prototype (2121M) was ready to be mass-produced in 1975, but the appearance of the new [[VAZ-2106]] at the end of the year resulted in a delay because the company wanted to develop another prototype based on the model in 1976, which became the sixth and final (serial production) prototype.

Before its production, the Niva was tested over a period of years by a team led by Vadim Kotlyarov in the most difficult terrain of the Soviet Union, such as the [[Ural Mountains]] and [[Siberia]], the deserts of the [[Kazakh SSR]], and the [[Pamir Mountains]] in the [[Tajik SSR]], where it was compared with its military counterpart, the [[UAZ-469]], and some Western off-road vehicles—the British-made [[Land Rover Series]] and the [[Range Rover Classic]].<ref name="youtube.com">Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/DEXzvNsecFI Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20191204173444/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEXzvNsecFI Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEXzvNsecFI |title=Автомобиль "Нива". Легендарный советский внедорожник. HD remastering | website=[[YouTube]] |date=5 August 2018}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211011102129/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7v9-RXT6KMI |archive-date=2021-10-11 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7v9-RXT6KMI |title=YouTube, a Google company |website=[[YouTube]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Its off-road capabilities were demonstrated for the very first time, which were based on its effective permanent four-wheel drive system featuring a [[transfer case]] and central [[differential lock]], with the combination of a short wheelbase (only 2,2m), relatively low weight (just over a ton), independent front suspension, small dimensions (3,74×1,68 m), and high [[ground clearance]] (about 265&nbsp;mm). Its large but narrow wheels (175/80-R16 in dimensions), originally featuring domestically designed "Voltyre" VLI-5 high-tread tires, offered relatively strong ground pressure, which lowered the chances of slipping or getting bogged down off-road. For example, in the 1973 and 1974 trials, the Niva climbed a 58% slope<!-- Is this supposed to be degrees instead of percent? -->, and crossed {{convert|60|cm|in|abbr=on}} of water and {{convert|100|cm|in|abbr=on}} of mud and snow.<ref name="Thompson, p.187" /> Solovyev died the following year and was replaced by engineer Pyotr Prusov, who took credit for creating the car.

In 1976, the final prototype appeared. The engine was changed to a {{convert|1568|cc|cid|abbr=on}} one, the most powerful engine in VAZ during the Soviet era, taken from their VAZ-2106 (from which the production model of the first Niva generation was generally derived). Like the previous prototype, it featured a permanent four-wheel drive and a transfer case with a lockable central differential.<ref name="Thompson, p.187" /> The VAZ prototype displayed better design and real-world performance than its AZLK counterpart, the Moskvitch 416, so it was approved for production in March of the same year, after the [[25th Congress of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union|25th Congress of the CPSU]]. The car was named Niva 1600 (Field) for exports and the VAZ-2121 (alternatively "Niva 2121" or "VAZ Niva") for the domestic market.<ref name="Thompson, p.187" /> For domestic customers, it was described as "[a] high-speed car with the improved capabilities and comfort of all VAZ models,"<ref name="youtube.com"/> and also as "[a] combination of the speed and comfort of a Zhiguli with the capabilities of a UAZ."<ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211205/fkLsb2fT36A Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20211011102127/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkLsb2fT36A Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkLsb2fT36A |title=Первая партия "Нив" будет выпущена к 25 съезду КПСС |website=[[YouTube]] |date=29 November 2018}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Production began the following year on 5 April 1977, while the first export models appeared in 1978 at the [[Paris Motor Show|Paris Motor Salon]] and quickly took over at least 40% of Europe's market for four-wheel drive vehicles,<ref name="Thompson, p.187" /> making it Lada's top-selling export.<ref>Thompson, p.caption.</ref> It was the only Soviet car that was ever regularly sold in Japan, starting in the early 1980s. Because of export demand and the higher priority given to exports, domestic customers faced long wait times, despite the car being developed primarily for Soviet citizens.<ref name="Thompson, p.187" />

===Design===
[[File:Lada Taiga 4x4 1.7i (53222891595).jpg|thumbnail|Current model in production, the Lada Niva 1.7i three-door [[hatchback]]]]
The original Niva has a naturally aspirated 1.6-L [[overhead cam|overhead-cam]] [[Straight-4|four-cylinder]] petrol engine producing {{cvt|76|PS|kW|0}} and {{cvt|126|Nm|lbft|0}} at 5,000 rpm, a four-speed [[manual transmission]], and a full-time four-wheel drive. The drive system uses three differentials: center, front, and rear. The transfer case involves a high/low range selector lever and another to lock the central differential. Like usual gear shifting, both of the aforementioned features naturally require the use of clutch to be properly selected. However, while the central differential can usually be locked while in motion, the transfer case cannot and requires a complete stop. The original Niva has a maximum speed of {{convert|81|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}.<ref name="Thompson, p.187"/>

[[Coil spring]]s are located at each of the four wheels, and the [[suspension (vehicle)|suspension]] is independent in front, whereas the rear axle is a five-link live-type, with ratios between 3.90 and 4.30 depending on the model and market. Ground clearance is {{convert|235|mm|in|abbr=on}}, and go as far as {{convert|510|mm|in|abbr=on}} deep in water.

The brakes are [[Servomechanism|servo]]-assisted dual-circuit style and the [[clutch]] is [[hydraulic]]. The turning circle is 36.25&nbsp;ft. Cargo space is {{convert|0.48|m3|ft3|abbr=on}}, or {{convert|1.33|m3|ft3|abbr=on}} with the rear seats folded down and, like the classic Zhiguli, the front seats can be set up to make two [[berth (sleeping)|berths]]. A spare tire can be stored in the engine bay under the bonnet.

[[File:Lada Niva 5 Door Wagon.jpg|thumb|left|Five-door [[station wagon]] (VAZ-2131) in Cuba]]

Additional equipment for the basic model was similar to other [[Lada]] and [[Eastern Bloc]] cars of the period; it included headlight wipers, a rear fog lamp, a right external mirror (for domestic units until the end of the 1980s), rear seat belts, a rear window wiper, a rear window heater, and a radio set. On the Niva 1.7 or VAZ-21213 from 1994, all of the above features except headlight wipers and the rear fog lamp (which were discontinued) became default and [[automobile air conditioning|air conditioning]], an [[antilock braking system]], and a [[hydraulics|hydraulic]] [[servomotor]] for the [[steering column]] were made optional, although they became standard equipment on the newest models.

Foreign (usually Western) local Lada importers often offered their own additional equipment before buying the car, such as front and rear [[bullbar|bull bars]] and [[anti-roll bar|roll bars]], side [[rocker panel|rocker rails]], roof rails, a [[winch]], fender plastics, additional headlights for front bumper and for roof rails, and aftermarket aluminium rims, which can be often seen mounted on many Nivas.[[File:Lada niva T3 rally mims.JPG|thumb|Lada Niva T3 Rally]]

The existing model was slightly restyled during first half of the 1980s when VAZ discontinued the VAZ-2103 (which had slowly been replaced by the VAZ-2106 since 1975). Due to high prices and production complexity, some of the [[chrome plating|chrome-plated]] elements disappeared in later models, such as the chrome-plated [[Grille (car)|mask]] and [[rocker panel]] edges. Other elements were changed, such as the side mirrors, which became black metallic. The background of the front Lada badge was changed from red to white (and later black on the new model) on all models. The side rear [[retroreflector]]s (or turn signals on some models, depending on market) were replaced by Lada (left) and Niva (right) labels, and the rear [[mudflap]]s received the brand logo. For easier access to certain areas of the engine compartment, the window washer reservoir was moved from the left to the right section of the compartment (right in front of the battery). The interior was only minimally changed, along with some minor changes to the [[dashboard|instrument panel]] and choke knob.

Pre-1985 models are visually recognized by the aforementioned details, and are rare today (almost nonexistent in a well-preserved condition), so they are highly valued by various collectors of [[classic car]]s. A mint-condition 1980 unit in Russia reached a price of five million [[Russian ruble|RUB]] and ultimately sold for 3,2 million in 2016<ref>{{Cite web|date=2016-02-01|title=Капсула времени: ВАЗ-2121 "Нива" 1980–го года с пробегом 200 км — DRIVE2|url=https://www.drive2.ru/b/2733670/|access-date=2021-10-11|website=www.drive2.ru|language=ru}}</ref> (approximately €38,570 or $44,570), which remains the most expensive Niva ever sold.{{Citation needed|date=January 2022}}

The VAZ-2121 Niva or Lada Niva 1600 was in production until 1993 (it existed in parallel production with the new model until the end of 1993) when the newer and more powerful four-cylinder petrol engine was introduced, replacing the previously used VAZ-2106 engine. The standard [[Weber carburetor]] was replaced by a single-point [[fuel injection]] initially supplied by General Motors on the 21214/1.7i model, and an improved [[Solex Carburetor|Solex]] carburetor on the 21213/1.7 model. The transmission was changed from four to five speeds, [[distributor|mechanical ignition]] was replaced, and the electronics and [[suspension (vehicle)|suspension]] received some relatively minor changes. The [[exhaust system]] was also slightly redesigned, and on newer models, the [[drive shaft]]s received [[homokinetic joint]]s.

On the exterior, the rear section of the body was redesigned with the tailgate extended and license plate on it. These changes prompted new vertical taillights that replaced the former VAZ-2106 horizontal ones and the [[VAZ-2102]] chromed tailgate knob, which was replaced by a simple plastic handle. On the newest models, the old hand-adjustable, square black-metallic (previously chrome-plated) side mirrors, which originated from the VAZ-2103 were replaced with larger plastic ones that could be automatically adjusted.. The previous front Lada badge was replaced with the larger [[ellipsoid]] design. The Fiat 125 chrome-plated doorknobs are still present, though they are plastic on the newest models. Although the rest of the exterior has remained generally unchanged (except for the Lada 4×4 Urban and Bronto), the interior was almost completely redesigned and shares only a few interchangeable parts with the previous one: the archaic partially chrome-plated VAZ-2106 steering wheel was replaced with the more modern and thick one from the [[Lada Riva|VAZ-2107]] and later, even newer models, as well as its VAZ-2103/2106 instruments, which were replaced with the dashboard from the [[Lada Samara|VAZ-21099]]. The black artificial leather seats that originated from the VAZ-2106 were replaced by higher, more modern ones from the VAZ-2108, with the front surface made of polyester, while the rear seat was improved for easier folding. The Fiat 124 swiveling windows from the side doors disappeared and were replaced with air conditioning, which was installed with the [[Anti-block system|ABS]] and servomotor for the [[steering column]] as additional equipment on request, while the headlight wipers and rear fog lamp disappeared. It received completely new front and door panels (with interior door knobs relocated above the hand rests instead of under like on previous generation), various plastics and even new floor mats. The [[crank (mechanism)|hand openings]] for the side-door windows was replaced with an [[power window|automatic]] opening on the newest models (and on the Lada 4×4 Urban) starting from 2014. Multipoint fuel injection designed by [[Robert Bosch GmbH|Bosch]] has been used since 2004, replacing the previously mentioned single-point injection from General Motors.

===Later models===
The lengthened model of the Niva appeared in 1993. It was known as the VAZ-2129 and was produced very briefly, only for about a year, so it is very rare. It was also never exported. Although it has a longer wheelbase, it kept three doors like the basic hatchback model. In design, it was a hybrid of old and new generations, since it featured the old VAZ-2121 (Niva 1600) body and interiors combined with new VAZ-21213 (Niva 1.7) 1680-cc engine and 5-speed transmission (although later, 1994 production models featured even new body and interiors).

The lengthened estate model with a longer wheelbase and five doors was made in 1995. It was originally known as the VAZ-2131 Niva, but commercially, it has no difference in name from the standard three-door model, and it is often referred as the Niva five-door. Due to its increased weight from the longer wheelbase, it can use the 1774-cc inline four petrol engine. Although it was still in production like the basic model, it had limited use and was infrequently exported, mainly due to the longer wheelbase and increased weight, and it was slightly higher priced compared to the standard model. In 2015, a five-door model also appeared for the Lada 4×4 Urban.

In 1999, a diesel-engine model of the Niva known as the VAZ-21215 Niva, or commercially as the Lada Niva 1.9, was released. It was produced until 2007 and sold only in a few markets. It was powered by a 1905-cc [[Peugeot]] [[XUD]] 9SD inline four diesel engine, and it was less powerful than the standard VAZ-21213/21214 1680-cc petrol engine. However, the VAZ-21215 was a relatively short-lived model despite lower [[fuel consumption in automobiles|fuel consumption]], because it was not popular in the domestic market, Peugeot stopped producing XUD engines in 2001 (although existing supplies were available until 2007, when the last VAZ-21215 came off the production line), and VAZ did not make another contract for diesel engine production for the Niva.

In 2006, the model with the carbureted engine of the new generation (VAZ-21213/Lada Niva 1.7) was discontinued, and the name Niva was formally dropped in favor of the new official name Lada 4×4, as General Motors received naming rights. The Niva was discontinued under the old Soviet VAZ-2121 domestic market classification.

In 2014, the new, restyled model called the Lada 4×4 Urban was released. It has more modern, ordinary looks, including a new mask, plastic bumpers, new side mirrors, different aluminium rims, new tires, a central brake light, heated front seats, and a slightly restyled interior. As of 2019, no version of the Lada 4x4 has airbags.

In 2017, the Lada 4×4 Bronto, intended mainly for off-road use, is released. It features characteristic mask and plastic bumpers with integrated front and rear fog lamps, plastic roof rails, new, larger wheels with black aluminium rims and 235/75-R16 Bontyre Stalker off-road tires, even higher ground clearance (increased another 35&nbsp;mm) and plastic rust-protected body edges (fenders and [[rocker panel]]s). Internally, it is similar to the Lada 4×4 URBAN, also featuring heated front seats. It also includes a front winch, roof headlights, and additional fog lights on the front bumper. With all the mentioned equipment included, the Bronto is currently the most expensive Lada 4×4 model, with a current price of 720 thousand RU in the [[Russia|domestic market]] (around €10,130). The slightly different pickup model designed by [[VAZInterService|VIS]] was also revealed (featuring an integrated metallic grille, different bumpers, and a [[vehicle snorkel|snorkel]]), called the Lada Bronto AMC.

On 5 April at the car's 40th anniversary, a special, limited edition of the classic Lada 4×4 called the Lada 4×4 40th-Anniversary was presented, which used the 1977 design. It features new aluminium rims similar to the Urban, five new color schemes, "40th Anniversary" metallic labels on the fenders, a tailgate, a glove compartment cover, front-seat backrests, and floor mats. Also, it has a slightly restyled interior featuring genuine leather seat upholstery and a steering wheel cover, and sills made out of stainless steel. The model is available from June 2017 in both domestic and export markets.

A convertible version appeared back in 1983, but was neither serially produced nor designed by VAZ. It was a modification of the original Niva 1600 bodied by French [[coachbuilder]] Wassermann for the local market.<ref name="Thompson, p.238">Thompson, p.238.</ref> It was known as the Niva Plein Soleil (Sunlight) and it was one of many Niva modifications made by local importers for their markets.<ref>Thompson, p.241 caption.</ref>

In recent years, changes included better lights, more comfortable seats, an instrument panels with LCD displays, alloy wheels, electric windows and mirrors, heated seats and air conditioning.

===Cossack and other importer special editions===
[[File:1997 Lada Niva 1.7i.jpg|thumb|right|Lada Niva 1.7i in with various importer-installed special equipment (Italy)]]

During the 1980s, local Lada importers in various markets made their own upgrades to help compete with more modern SUVs. In the UK, the Cossack model featured large body decals, roof rails, running boards, 15-in alloy wheels, and on some versions, a [[sunroof]], steel [[bullbar]]s, spotlights, a rear-mounted spare tire, and semi-bucket seats. Other markets' importers made similar upgrades and many were also called Cossack.

In 1995, Lada UK introduced a face-lifted version of the Niva Cossack and renamed the basic model as the ''Hussar''. Whereas the Hussar had the original 1977 trim, the new UK Cossack featured a new [[MG Rover Group|Rover]]-designed grille and other body kit items, and gained soft nudge-bars at the front in deference to public opinion against bullbars. Both models received the same new 1.7-litre engine and a new deeper tailgate which extended the rear opening to the level of the bumper – a vast improvement over the original model's high lip. Official Niva imports to the UK ceased in 1997 due to the importers having difficulty in sourcing the GM fuel injection unit required to satisfy ever-tightening UK emissions regulations.

Several attempts were made to reintroduce Ladas into the UK. In May 2010, the basic Niva became available again through an independent importer. Aimed largely at the agricultural market, three models were made available: the three-door, four-seat hatchback; a two-seat commercial van; and a two-door, four-seat pickup.<ref>{{cite web |author=David Cousins |url=http://www.fwi.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/18/122285/Lada-Niva-back-on-sale-in-UK.htm |title=Farmers Weekly |publisher=Fwi.co.uk |date= 16 July 2010|access-date=1 February 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101124090716/http://www.fwi.co.uk/Articles/2010/07/18/122285/Lada-Niva-back-on-sale-in-UK.htm |archive-date=24 November 2010 }}</ref>

===VAZ-2122 Reka===
[[File:VAZ 2122 Reka.jpg|thumb|VAZ 2122 Reka]]
Although VAZ was meant exclusively to produce passenger cars, the [[Soviet Armed Forces|Soviet military]] was impressed by its off-road capabilities and ordered VAZ to create a military version, to replace the [[UAZ-469]] as the standard military 4×4 vehicle. In 1976, when VAZ-2121 development was almost finished, engineers from [[Tolyatti]] began working on an [[amphibious car|amphibian off-roader]], which became known as VAZ-2122 Reka (River). A simplified and more rugged body was combined with the Niva [[chassis]]. It weighed about the same as the usual Niva, but instead of the 1600-cc VAZ-2106 engine, it used an older and less powerful 1300-cc engine derived from the VAZ-2101. Internally, it featured a different metal dashboard, though it used the same Niva instruments along with the same steering wheel and artificial leather seats.<ref>Thompson, p.189.</ref>

Six different evolution prototypes were built. They were tested in an experimental military unit, on the proving grounds of the Ministry of Defense, and in the [[Karakum Desert]] in [[Turkmenistan]]. The VAZ-2122 showed better results than the UAZ-469 (especially the fact that it featured amphibious capabilities, which UAZ did not have) and received very positive feedback; the military was satisfied with its capabilities, reliability, firmness and durability. By 1987, VAZ had completed development work, and the car was ready for mass production and military service. Nevertheless, the results were not enough to convince the military to start mass production.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-09-09 |title=ВАЗ 2122 Река - история модели советского автомобиля, характеристики, фото и видео ваз амфибия |url=https://stoneforest.ru/look/cars/vaz-2122-reka/ |access-date=2022-09-20 |website=Stone Forest |language=ru-RU}}</ref>

===LWB Nivas===
[[File:Lada_Niva_%28VAZ_2121%29.jpg|thumb|right|VAZ-2131]]
Longer wheelbase versions – the five-door VAZ-2131, three-door VAZ-2129, and VAZ-2329 pickup were also produced from the 1990s,<ref>{{cite web|title=Niva allroads models|publisher=RusLada.com|url=http://www.ruslada.com/niva.html|access-date=14 February 2011|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110715214347/http://www.ruslada.com/niva.html|archive-date=15 July 2011}}</ref> but not generally exported.

===Nameplate changes===
[[File:Budapest, Hungexpo, AMTS 2017, 51.jpg|thumbnail|Lada 4x4 Urban]]
The Lada Niva was formally renamed Lada 4×4 in 2006 as the Niva name was reserved for the new [[Lada Niva Travel|Chevrolet Niva]]. This version has a low-range gearbox, differential lock, ABS, airbags, heated front seats, air conditioning, servomotor for the steering column, underbody protection. Prices for the model started at €10,990. It is available in five body styles: three- and five-door hatchbacks, two- and four-door pickups, and a two-door van. Two petrol engines were available – the standard 1.7-litre and the 1.8-litre (only for five-door model) along with a five-speed manual transmission.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bnews.kz/en/news/post/140093/ |title=Russian Lada Niva is renamed Lada Taiga – News Feed – Kazakhstan news today |publisher=Bnews.kz |access-date=27 December 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131227080632/http://www.bnews.kz/en/news/post/140093/ |archive-date=27 December 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.inautonews.com/lada-niva-is-renamed-the-lada-taiga |title=Lada Niva is renamed as the Lada Taiga |publisher=Inautonews.com |date=22 May 2013 |access-date=27 December 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131227235332/http://www.inautonews.com/lada-niva-is-renamed-the-lada-taiga#.UZyxuqJA3Bs |archive-date=27 December 2013 }}</ref>

Starting with the 2014 model year, the Niva nameplate was discontinued for the Russian market, and the vehicle is branded Lada 4×4 for both short and long wheelbases to make way for the upcoming restart of the [[Chevrolet Niva]] series, which was scheduled to start production by March 2015. Due to Russia–West economic relations, AvtoVAZ analysts suggested that the production of Chevrolet Niva may be delayed further into 2015.

== Lada Niva II ==
{{Main|Lada Niva Travel}}

===1998 – 2002===
[[File:Нива Ваз 2123 1.JPG|thumb|right|VAZ-2123 (1998-2002)]]
[[GM-AvtoVAZ]], a joint venture between [[AvtoVAZ]] and [[General Motors]], presented in 1998 the '''VAZ-2123''', a new [[sport utility vehicle]] (SUV) based on the old VAZ 2121 engine, transmission and most mechanicals; but with a modern exterior design. 

===2003 – 2019===
[[File:ВАЗ-2131 и Шевроле-Нива.JPG|thumb|left|Lada 4x4 with Chevrolet Niva (2003-2019)]]
In 2003, the VAZ-2123 was rebadged as the [[Chevrolet Niva]]. It features an updated body and 1.7-litre gasoline engine with fuel injection. Although the body and the interiors are new, it is still based on the old VAZ-2121 engine, transmission, and most mechanicals. Its off-road ability is exemplary compared with many modern budget SUVs, having been designed for tough tundra territory.<ref>{{cite web|date=4 January 2011|title=GM-AVTOVAZ|url=http://www.gm-avtovaz.ru/new_en/inside.php?page=contents/new|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110104222747/http://www.gm-avtovaz.ru/new_en/inside.php?page=contents%2Fnew|archive-date=4 January 2011|access-date=17 March 2019}}</ref>

===2020 – Present===
[[File:LADA Niva Travel (2021).jpg|thumb|right|Lada Niva Travel (2021-Present)]]
In 2019 Lada acquired General Motors' stake in GM-AvtoVAZ<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.lada.ru/en/press-releases/116943.html |title=AVTOVAZ acquires GM's stake in the GM-AVTOVAZ Joint Venture - Press-releases - News - Official website LADA |access-date=12 July 2020 |archive-date=3 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803020325/https://www.lada.ru/en/press-releases/116943.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> and then announced that the Chevrolet Niva would be produced under Lada's name. The rebranded Lada Niva was revealed by AvtoVAZ in July 2020,<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Mihalascu |first1=Dan |date=13 July 2020|title=Chevrolet Niva Regains Lada Badges as AvtoVAZ Completes GM Joint Venture Buyout|work=Carscoops |url=https://www.carscoops.com/2020/07/chevrolet-niva-regains-lada-badges-as-avtovaz-completes-gm-joint-venture-buyout/}}</ref> with the firm saying that there was still strong demand for the 20 year old line of cars. The 2020 model is produced at the [[Tolyatti|Togliatti]] factory with minor design updates (but no technical changes) and joins the Lada 4×4 in the firm's range.

In December 2020, following a new generation of the line, the new Lada Niva was further rebranded as Lada Niva Travel, while the old Lada 4x4 was rebranded as the Lada Niva Legend in January 2021.<ref name="Lada20-12" /><ref>{{Cite web|title=LADA Niva Legend: the new name for the iconic model – Press-releases – News – Official website LADA|url=https://www.lada.ru/en/press-releases/118503.html|access-date=2021-01-17|website=LADA official website}}</ref>
{{clear}}

==Safety by modern standards==
In 2002, the Lada Niva was awarded zero stars out of a possible four by the Russian [[ARCAP]] safety-assessment program. The reviewer noted the very rugged body of the car as the only positive aspect in terms of safety.<ref name="arcapniva"/> During the safety test, the passenger dummy was hit by the glove compartment hard enough to risk [[traumatic brain injury]].<ref name="arcapniva">{{cite web|title=Лада ВАЗ-21213 Нива|url=https://autoreview.ru/arcap/cars/%D0%9B%D0%B0%D0%B4%D0%B0/%D0%92%D0%90%D0%97-21213%20%D0%9D%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0|website=Авторевю|access-date=1 June 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170211105701/https://autoreview.ru/arcap/cars/%D0%9B%D0%B0%D0%B4%D0%B0/%D0%92%D0%90%D0%97-21213%20%D0%9D%D0%B8%D0%B2%D0%B0|archive-date=11 February 2017}}</ref>

The reviewers noted that they did not expect a high rating and that the result was natural, as "it would be naive to believe that a 30-year-old design complies with modern requirements for passive safety".<ref name=AV/> They added that a complete modernization of the car would be required to comply with modern safety standards.<ref name=AV>{{cite web |title=Краш-тест ВАЗ-2121 // Авторевю, №19, 2002 г. |url=http://autofaq.ru/articles/283/2176 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170712095219/http://autofaq.ru/articles/283/2176 |archive-date=12 July 2017 }}</ref>

==Uses==
The Niva was the first wheeled vehicle to spend more than 10 years in Antarctica, where the classic VAZ-2121 Niva (Lada Niva 1600) was used by the [[Soviet Antarctic Expedition]] for transportation of personnel and goods, communication between Antarctic stations, and towing boats. It covered more than {{convert|40,000|km|mi|abbr=on}} in 1990–2001 and operated at temperatures as low as −54&nbsp;°C. A Niva also reached the North Pole in 1998, when the lengthened VAZ-2131 Niva was dropped by parachute on ice and successfully completed its route, operating at an average temperature of −30&nbsp;°C, becoming the first wheeled vehicle to spend time there. It also set the world record of the highest point ever reached by a motorized vehicle, when another VAZ-2131 climbed to the 5200-m-high base camp on Mount Everest in 1998 and even higher just a year later, on 16 September 1999, when a similar Niva belonging to the Saint Petersburg extreme expedition team reached a height of 5725 m on a Tibet mountain during off-roading.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://360carmuseum.com/ru/museum/43/exhibit/2280 | title=1990 ВАЗ-2121 "Нива" | publisher=360carmuseum.com (in Russian) | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118145952/https://360carmuseum.com/ru/museum/43/exhibit/2280 | archive-date=18 November 2015 }}</ref> There is also visual confirmation of Russian soldiers using the Lada Niva as a method of transport for assaults in the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. <ref>{{cite web |title=Russians are now forced to use "Niva" cars, the so-called "pride" of their auto industry, for assaults. |url=https://x.com/NOELreports/status/1840763208023339088 |website=Twitter |publisher=@NOELreports |access-date=30 September 2024}}</ref>

{{gallery|height=150|width=200|align=center
|File:ВАЗ-2131СП 213105.JPG|Lada Niva 2131СП ambulance
|File:Lada Niva on Budapest-Bamako racing.jpg|The official pace car of the [[Budapest-Bamako]] is a refurbished 1988 Lada Niva
|File:Integrated Safety and Security Exhibition 2011 (363-47).jpg|Lada Niva fire appliance
|File:Лада_Нива.JPG|Lada Niva used by the Soviet Antarctic Expedition
}}

==Assembly outside Russia==
[[File:20 years old Lada Niva 1.7i DLX assembled in Ecuador.jpg|thumb|left|2001 Lada Niva assembled in Ecuador]]

[[Automeccanica]] assembled different versions of the Lada Niva in the late 1980s and early 1990s, including an in-house developed convertible version.<ref>{{cite web|title=Automeccanica Αebe|url=http://www.nissantuners.gr/forum/index.php?PHPSESSID=8679a4de0f94d41c490d1363f07a6844&topic=7953.msg138759#msg138759|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120904055114/http://www.nissantuners.gr/forum/index.php?PHPSESSID=8679a4de0f94d41c490d1363f07a6844&topic=7953.msg138759%23msg138759|url-status=dead|access-date=10 October 2011|archive-date = 4 September 2012}}</ref>

The Lada Niva was also assembled in Ecuador by [[Aymesa]] between December 2000 and 2004.<ref>{{Cite web|title=LAS VENTAS DE AUTOS SE TRIPLICARON|url=http://hoy.tawsa.com/noticias-ecuador/las-ventas-de-autos-se-triplicaron-121533.html|access-date=2021-09-10|website=Explored {{!}} Archivo Noticias|language=en}}</ref> In Uruguay, a vehicle armorer called Bognor (a subsidiary of PSA assemblers Oferol) teamed up with Latin American VAZ concessionaires Rusia Automotriz in 2002 to assemble armored Lada Nivas locally, calling them the '''Bognor Diva'''.<ref name=CJblinde>{{cite web | url = https://www.carjager.com/blog/article/bognor-diva-le-niva-blinde-sud-americain.html | title = Bognor Diva: le Niva blindé sud-américain | trans-title = The Armoured, South American Niva | first = Paul | last = Clément-Collin | date = 2018-05-29 | work = CarJager | language = fr }}</ref> The armouring parts were made locally, and all Divas were fitted with Peugeot's 1.9-litre, {{cvt|69|PS|kW|0}} diesel engine. Around 500 examples were built between 2003 and 2007 (192 knock-down kits were sent in 2003, the first year<ref name=05review>{{cite web|title=Annual Report 2003|url=http://www.ladacars.org/manuals%20pdf/bussiness%20review%202003.pdf|publisher=JSC Avtovaz| date=29 July 2005|page=49 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120212145545/http://www.ladacars.org/manuals%20pdf/bussiness%20review%202003.pdf|archive-date=12 February 2012 }}</ref>), with about 400 of them sold to Cuba.<ref name=CJblinde/>
{{clear}}

== Concept Cars ==
=== Chevrolet Niva Concept (2014) ===
{{Main|Lada Niva Travel}}
[[File:Chevrolet Niva Concept.JPG|thumb|left|Chevrolet Niva Concept (2014)]]
GM-AvtoVAZ introduced a concept vehicle for a new generation of the Chevrolet Niva at the [[Moscow International Automobile Salon]] in late August 2014.<ref name="concept">{{cite web|title=Концепт Chevrolet NIVA нового поколения на ММАС 2014|url=http://media.gm.com/media/ru/ru/chevrolet/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/ru/ru/2014/chevrolet/08-13-niva-concept.html|publisher=Chevrolet Media|access-date=24 August 2014|language=ru|date=13 August 2014|archive-date=7 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307044435/http://media.gm.com/media/ru/ru/chevrolet/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/ru/ru/2014/chevrolet/08-13-niva-concept.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Niva Concept, designed by Ondrej Koromház of GM (or at General Motors' headquarters in Melbourne according to other sources),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.caradvice.com.au/516693/new-lada-niva-for-2018-could-it-be/|title=New Lada Niva for 2018… Could it be?|publisher=Caradvice.com.au}}</ref> had a longitudinal mounted engine, full-time four-wheel-drive, two-gear transfer case and rigid-axle rear suspension. The production model was supposed to get a 1.8-liter [[PSA Peugeot Citroën]] EC8 engine (135&nbsp;hp) paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://wroom.ru/en/news/2572 |title=Chevrolet Niva Concept debuted in Moscow |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=28 August 2014 |website=Wroom.ru |access-date=2 September 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141209110538/http://wroom.ru/en/news/2572 |archive-date=9 December 2014 }}</ref> although more recent news reports suggested that it was planned to be based on the [[Renault Duster]] platform.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.news-original.ru/gm-avtovaz-is-preparing-a-chevrolet-niva-2-on-the-platform-of-renault-duster.html|title="GM-AVTOVAZ" is preparing a Chevrolet Niva 2 on the platform of Renault Duster|publisher=News-original.ru|access-date=2017-03-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308222614/http://en.news-original.ru/gm-avtovaz-is-preparing-a-chevrolet-niva-2-on-the-platform-of-renault-duster.html|archive-date=2017-03-08|url-status=dead}}</ref> The new model's production version was initially expected in 2016,<ref name="concept"/> but following Chevrolet stopping sales of its mainstream models in Russia, no further information has been released on the topic.

In September 2018, it was reported that GM has suspended all the work on planned replacement of Chevrolet Niva.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autonews.com/article/20180921/COPY01/309219979/gm-suspends-work-on-chevrolet-niva-replacement|title=GM suspends work on Chevrolet Niva replacement|publisher=[[Automotive News]]}}</ref>

===Lada 4x4 Vision Concept (2018)===
[[File:IzhAuto-2019-36.jpg|thumb|right|Lada 4x4 Vision Concept (2018)]]
In May 2018 AvtoVAZ patented the new concept car called the [[Lada Niva Vision|Lada 4x4 Vision]].<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://ru.motor1.com/news/348064/zapatentovan-dizajn-novoj-lada-4x4/ | title=Запатентован дизайн новой Lada 4x4 }}</ref> At a Moscow International Automobile Salon in August 2018, AvtoVAZ presented the concept, built in honour of the original Niva's 40th anniversary.<ref>{{Cite web|title="АвтоВАЗ" внезапно показал прототип новой "Нивы"|url=https://ru.motor1.com/news/264152/avtovaz-vnezapno-pokazal-prototip-novoj-nivy/|access-date=2022-01-14|website=Motor1.com|language=ru}}</ref> According to preliminary information, the car would be based on [[Renault Duster]] and production was scheduled to start in 2022 at the earliest.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Новая Lada 4x4: ждем минимум до 2022 года|url=https://ru.motor1.com/news/354828/novaya-lada-4x4-zhdem-minimum-do-2022-goda/|access-date=2022-01-14|website=Motor1.com|language=ru}}</ref>

===Lada T-134 (2025)===
[[File:Image Lada NIVA concept (T-134).png|thumb|left|Lada T-134 Concept (2025)]]
After [[Steve Mattin]] left AvtoVAZ in 2021 [[Jean-Philippe Salar]] was chosen as the new chief designer, he began to work on another concept of Niva's third generation which had to be based on [[Renault–Nissan Common Module Family|CMF]] and unified with [[Dacia Duster]] and [[Dacia Bigster]]. Russian engineers were supposed to develop an all-wheel-drive system for the car. The work on the project was stopped when Groupe Renault dropped Lada in response to [[Russian invasion of Ukraine]] in 2022. In the summer of 2023 AvtoVAZ renewed the work by themselves, switching the platform of the almost finished car to [[Lada Vesta]] chassis. In 2025 the concept was showcased to the [[President of Russia]] [[Vladimir Putin]] under the name T-134 that might be a reference to both [[T-34]] tank and [[Tupolev Tu-134|Tu-134]] plane.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Новая Нива — Lada T-134. Все подробности!|url=https://www.zr.ru/content/news/965119-novaya-niva-lada-t-134.-vse-p|website=[[Za Rulem]]}}</ref>

==Modifications==
[[File:Нива с большими колесами Хабаровск 2016 (1).jpg|thumb|Lada 4x4 Bronto March-1 (VAZ-1922)]]
[[File:Lada 2120.JPG|thumb|[[Lada Nadezhda]] «Фора» Hope]]
[[File:BDtT-4M on MIAS 2016 (front view).jpg|thumb|Niva with [[BRDM-2]]-style modification]]

===Short/regular versions===

==== Lada 4×4 Urban ====
A version of the base three-door car, it sports updated bumpers, grille, steering wheel, and some additional options: power and heated mirrors, power windows, air conditioning, and alloy wheels. The car has been produced by VIS-Auto since October 2014.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://wroom.ru/en/news/2737 |title=Lada 4x4 Urban Production Begins |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=2 October 2014 |website=Wroom.ru |access-date=7 October 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141007234700/http://wroom.ru/en/news/2737 |archive-date=7 October 2014}}</ref>

===Vehicles based on the Niva===

==== VAZ-1922 Bronto "March-1" ====
Bronto March is one of the few mass-produced vehicles on ultra-large-diameter pneumatic wheels.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lada 4x4 Marsh | date=2 July 2010 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzuBT7OZoKE |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/QzuBT7OZoKE| archive-date=2021-12-11 |url-status=live|via=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref> A production is being made by the [[PSA Bronto]] in [[Tolyatti]] since 1997. In the first 8 years of production, about 350 cars were produced.<ref>{{cite web |title=ВАЗ-1922 "МАРШ" |url=https://xn--80aafe9bhdrpm.com/%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%B7-1922-%D0%BC%D0%B0%D1%80%D1%88/ |website=АвтоГурман |language=ru-RU |date=1 June 2015}}</ref>

==== APAL-21541 "Stalker" ====
{{main|APAL Stalker}}
A modification based on the VAZ-21214, it was planned for series production at the plant "Pishchemash" in the city of Argun, Chechen Republic. This short run is made by LLC "APAL" since 2003.

===Long versions===
Niva with [[BRDM-2]]-style modification.

==Notable owners==
[[Vladimir Putin]] bought a Niva in May 2009.<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/world/2419246/Putin-flaunts-new-Lada-Niva ''Putin flaunts new Lada Niva'' Associated Press in Moscow, used by New Zealand Stuff.co.nz news portal, 18 May 2009]. Retrieved 4 September 2014.</ref> He showed his camouflage-painted [[Opel]]-engined offroader in the Russian media, allegedly to support [[Automotive industry in Russia|domestic car producers]] despite the [[2008 financial crisis]].<ref>{{Cite news | url=http://www.themoscowtimes.com/sitemap/free/2010/1/article/putin-pimps-his-russian-made-ride-with-german-engine/398259.html | title=Putin Pimps His Russian-Made Ride With German Engine | work=[[The Moscow Times]] | location=[[Moscow]] | date= 27 January 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150304175929/http://www.themoscowtimes.com/sitemap/free/2010/1/article/putin-pimps-his-russian-made-ride-with-german-engine/398259.html | archive-date=4 March 2015 | url-status=live}}</ref><ref>[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/russia/7078958/Vladimir-Putins-embarrassing-Lada-revelation.html , Andrew Osborn in Moscow, ''Daily Telegraph'', London, 26 January 2010] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140722181204/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/russia/7078958/Vladimir-Putins-embarrassing-Lada-revelation.html |date=22 July 2014 }}. Retrieved 4 September 2014.</ref>

Serbian football player [[Aleksandar Kolarov]] received a certificate for a Lada 4×4/Niva as a reward for scoring a goal in his team's match against [[Costa Rica national football team|Costa Rica]] during the [[Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup bid|Russia 2018 World Cup.]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thenational.ae/sport/football/lada-car-reward-for-serbia-s-match-winner-aleksandar-kolarov-1.741428|title=Lada car reward for Serbia's match-winner Aleksandar Kolarov|website=The National| date=18 June 2018 |access-date=17 March 2019}}</ref>

Norwegian musician [[Varg Vikernes]] is seen driving a Lada Niva in his 2013 indie film ''ForeBears''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/Syir5-5u2UA|title= ForeBears - A film by V. Vikernes and M. Cachet|website=YouTube|date=25 February 2014|access-date=27 November 2022}}</ref>

==Gallery==
<gallery widths="200" heights="150">
File:1982 Lada Niva (8870754922).jpg|Lada Niva front view
File:Lada Niva rear 20080228.jpg|Lada Niva rear (with new lights)
File:1990 Lada Niva 1.6 Rear.jpg |Lada Niva rear (with old lights)
File:VAZ-2121 customized to Truck.jpg|VAZ-2121 customized to Truck.
File:Lada Niva 1991 Brazil.jpg|1991 Lada Niva in Brazil
File:Integrated Safety and Security Exhibition 2009 (195-2).jpg|VAZ-2131 as a police car
File:Integrated Safety and Security Exhibition 2011 (363-48).jpg
File:ВАЗ-2131 инжекторный двигатель.JPG|VAZ-2131 Engine
File:ВАЗ-2131 место водителя.JPG|VAZ-2131 Dashboard
File:"Niva Kub" social taxi during the "Armiya 2023" exhibition (side view).jpg | Niva "Kub"
</gallery>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{commons category}}
*{{official website}}
*[https://lada4x4.co.uk/ UK and Ireland dealer website]
*[http://www.gm-avtovaz.ru/en/ Chevrolet Niva website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161124235238/http://gm-avtovaz.ru/en/ |date=24 November 2016 }}
*[http://www.ladaniva.co.uk/index.html#Manuals Lada Niva technical manuals] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200117225106/http://www.ladaniva.co.uk/index.html#Manuals |date=17 January 2020 }}
*[http://www.ladaniva.co.uk/baxter Baxter's Temple of Niva] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110117151642/http://www.ladaniva.co.uk/baxter/ |date=17 January 2011 }}, a large collection of resources for Lada Niva owners
*[http://www.bronto-psa.ru/ Bronto PSA official page] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151122093424/http://bronto-psa.ru/ |date=22 November 2015 }}

{{Lada}}
{{Lada timeline 1970 to date}}

[[Category:Lada vehicles|Niva]]
[[Category:All-wheel-drive vehicles]]
[[Category:Soviet automobiles]]
[[Category:Cars introduced in 1977]]
[[Category:Cars of Russia]]
[[Category:Cars of Ecuador]]
[[Category:Cars of Egypt]]
[[Category:Cars of Greece]]
[[Category:Cars of Kazakhstan]]
[[Category:Cars of Uruguay]]
[[Category:Compact sport utility vehicles]]
[[Category:Mini sport utility vehicles]]
[[Category:Off-road vehicles]]
[[Category:ARCAP small off-road]]
[[Category:Police vehicles]]
[[Category:Land transport in Antarctica]]