Various models produced by AvtoVAZ are in stable demand both in the market of new and used cars. At the same time, taking into account the significant updating of the model range in recent years, the question often arises among car enthusiasts about what is better to choose, VAZ 2110 or Kalina, Priora or Grant, etc.
At the same time, such models as Lada Granta and Lada Priora are quite in demand and popular for a number of reasons. Taking into account the fact that AvtoVAZ products have become more comfortable, reliable and safe, such cars confidently compete with used and even new budget foreign cars. Next, we will look at which is better, Priora or Grant, as well as which model is optimal to choose in this or that case.
Technical characteristics and configurations of VAZ Priora and Lada Granta
Exterior
Priora is made by analogy with previous models, such as Kalina, VAZ-2110, and others. A minor restyling in 2014 gave the optics roundness, convex bumpers, and a wide fit in the back row of seats.
Granta, regardless of modification, is initially endowed with a stylish shape. DRLs have been added, lighting, the shape of the bumpers, and optics have been improved. Choice in favor of Lada.
Interior
Inside the cabin the situation looks radical. After restyling in 2014, the interior of the VAZ-2170 was modernized and the quality of finishing materials was improved, the so-called “soft look”.
The VAZ-2190 looks rather faded compared to its predecessor. Simply designed dashboard, dashboard, center channel. Perhaps compensation in the form of a spacious interior covers the previous disadvantage.
Price and quality
In comparison, which is better than the Priora or Grant liftback, the “new” definitely wins. The price of the basic equipment of the Priora is equal to the cost of the Granta in top-end equipment. This paradox of pricing policy is explained quite simply - a minimum number of small components that are replaced by large ones. Thus, it was possible to reduce the noise level and the cost of the machine.
Related link:
How to remove door trim on a Lada Granta Liftback: advice from experts
Prestige
Of course, it is a little strange to talk about this in the light of such a comparison, but it is worth recognizing that among young people (especially boys) Priora is rated much higher than Granta. It even earned the status of a kind of “boy’s” car. Still, the Lada Granta is aimed primarily at the older generation, whose representatives do not pay much attention to appearance. This means that in this round victory remains with Priora.
Video: 2013 Lada Granta Lux. Overview (interior, exterior, engine)
Options
The predecessor of the VAZ-2190 has only two configurations: “Norma”, “Lux”. Grant added one more: “Standard” is the most budget-friendly equipment. But it also looks much better than the Priora. The next two modifications of the VAZ-2190 differ little from each other.
Available options: • front airbag; • electric power steering; • on-board computer and multimedia system; • heated front seats.
Controllability, safety and comfort
On the one hand, in terms of comfort and controllability, VAZ models are usually inferior to modern foreign cars, but in fact, the relatively low-set Priora holds the road quite well, has a “light” steering wheel with electric steering and a quite comfortable suspension. In turn, the Lada Granta is more rolling and can “scour” along the road at high speeds. As for the suspension, it is also soft and quite comfortable.
In terms of safety, both models have a driver airbag, as well as ABS, EBD and BAS systems in minimum configurations. More expensive versions also include air conditioning, a passenger airbag, an on-board computer, parking sensors and other useful solutions and options.
By the way, when studying the configurations and prices, one can be surprised to notice that in some versions the “older” Priora with a worse level of equipment can be very close in price to the newer and better equipped Granta.
One way or another, it is quite difficult to say unequivocally which is better, Grant or Priora, only in terms of equipment level and price. First, you need to separately compare the current prices of two models with absolutely identical equipment. Secondly, “top” configurations are available for both models, where all available options will be present.
Specifications
A criterion that worries most car enthusiasts and brand buyers. So, let's start with optics. The opinions of experts are divided into two opposing camps:
- VAZ - 2170: high beam quality;
- Lada - 2190: low beam quality.
Priora's victory is supported by the autonomy of each of the optical bases, which reduces the design and overall cost.
Ride height
In this category, both models, regardless of modification, have the same ground clearance of 160 mm.
Trunk
Priora hatchback or Granta liftback: the undeniable advantage of the Lada Granta in the volume of the luggage compartment. It is 525 liters (700 liters when folded). While the Priora has only 440 liters.
Suspension
The increased steering rack travel increases the Priora's handling coefficient. She becomes more obedient in turns and maneuvers. Odds ratio: 3.1 versus 4.1, respectively.
Granta, on the contrary, rolls, is ideal for a moderate driving style. Already at speeds above 120 km/h, slight bouncing of the car and a decrease in control efficiency are noticeable. We are talking about the stock configuration; in “Sport” the characteristics are different.
Engine
There are no particular differences in power plants between Grant and Priora, since they are manufactured using identical technologies. In the “Sport” configuration, the 16-valve VAZ-2190 is faster and more playful than its predecessor. Model range of engines: 82 / 87 / 98 / 106 hp, the last two with additional sound insulation. Fuel consumption in the urban cycle is 9 - 10 liters, which is within the acceptable limit for this class of car.
Related link:
How to eliminate squeaks on a Lada Granta Liftback: recommendations from an expert
Transmission
Despite the identical design of the VAZ-2170 and VAZ-2190 gearboxes, the latter beats in characteristics. The modernized, modified version of the VAZ-2108 engages gears clearly and easily. In addition, the Granta is equipped with both manual and automatic transmissions. In Priora there is only a mechanical option.
Prices
On the primary market, the Priora is 60–80 thousand rubles more expensive than the basic version of the Lada Granta. The difference in cost of Prioras with mileage from Grants is within 50 - 55 thousand rubles.
Obviously, the cost will be different for individual configurations. *prices are as of September 18, 2018.
Body range and dimensions
And in this regard, Granta is a clear favorite, because it can be chosen both as a sedan and as a liftback, while the Priora buyer will have to be content with a non-alternative 5-door sedan.
If we compare the parameters of competitors, it is noticeable that Priora is superior to its counterpart in length, but Granta wins back in width and height. The Priora has a longer wheelbase, however, the front and rear tracks are narrower, and the trunk is noticeably smaller. A clear comparison of the parameters is presented in the table:
Dimensions/Model | Lada Priora (sedan) | LADA Granta (sedan) |
Length | 4 350 mm | 4 260 mm |
Height | 1 420 mm | 1 500 mm |
Width | 1,680 mm | 1,700 mm |
Wheelbase | 2,492 mm | 2,476 mm |
Front wheel track | 1 410 mm | 1 430 mm |
Rear wheel track | 1 380 mm | 1,414 mm |
Clearance | 165 mm | 160 (145) mm |
Trunk volume | 430 l | 520 l |
Separately, it is worth mentioning the ground clearance. At first glance, the cars are almost equal, because the difference is only 5 mm in favor of the Priora. However, this is only true when comparing both manual and robotic rivals. If the Granta is equipped with a classic automatic transmission, then it sags noticeably, since its ground clearance is reduced to only 145 mm. In light of this, we can admit that in terms of dimensions there is a fighting draw.
Exterior
Everything here is subjective. It is noticeable that Priora was created back in the first decade of the 21st century, when the Mitsubishi Lancer IX, KIA Ceed and others were taken as examples. This left its mark.
The Priora has convex headlight optics, a massive sloping hood and a simple bumper. In addition, the front end is decorated with tiny round foglights and a trapezoidal radiator grille with chrome trim.
In profile, large doors and long body overhangs are immediately noticeable, and the glass area is impressive. In addition, the entire sidewall is crossed by a long stamping line. But there are no plastic moldings. The rear is not bad - a smooth bumper, high feet, a massive trunk lid with a shiny lining. Not too bland, but nothing flashy either.
Lada Granta is made in a more modern style, but its appearance is frankly boring. It is noticeable that the designers set out to create a kind of “universal” model. From the front it stands out with large headlights, a radiator grille and an air intake, which, in fact, occupy the entire front. And the composition is completed by a large hood and round fog lights.
On the side there are similar body overhangs, as well as plastic trim on the doors, painted black. And the side windows are no smaller than those of the Priora. From behind, a huge trunk lid with a pair of “claw-shaped” stampings catches your eye. And the fact that the license plate is installed in the rear bumper only enhances the impression.
Video: 2014 Lada Priora Lux. Review (interior, exterior, engine).
Which is better: “Granta” or “Priora”
Reviews of the models (Granta liftback, Priora station wagon, Hatchback, Sedan, Sport) differ greatly from each other. Some speak positively, others negatively. Analysis of reviews shows that most of the breakdowns were minor, minor. In all cases, the car was running, the owner drove to the service station on his own, and a tow truck was not called.
Priora hatchback or Granta liftback, which is better: there is no definite answer, in each case individually.
The build quality factor has a lot to do with it.
For tall drivers, Granta is an ideal option, as it provides more space, including in the back row of seats. Priora still attracts with its engine power, long service life, and fewer defects.
Perhaps Granta will also take time to improve, and in a few years it will become a favorite.
What are the owners thinking?
As a separate point, I would like to dwell on the reviews of owners aimed at comparing Grants and Priora. Such battles often flare up on online forums.
Most “couch” critics prefer Granta, although they immediately “roll back”, afraid of its novelty. In terms of technical aspects, the cars are almost identical, and in terms of exterior, the palm is deservedly “on the hood” of the Grants.
There is also a category of opponents who defend the Priora’s position, citing the reliability of the car.
But there is also a caste of third parties who compare the purchase of a VAZ model to playing a lottery, i.e., if you are lucky and get a successful car, then you enjoy the operation. When fortune turns, no modifications can correct the situation. It’s just impossible to understand what to choose for yourself: LADA Granta or LADA Priora?
Owner reviews
№ | Positive |
1. | Konstantin, 39 years old: after Kalina, the car seems ideal. Of course, there are shortcomings, but they can all be eliminated. |
2. | Vitaly, 44 years old: six months ago I became the owner of a Grant, I’m happy, it’s still under warranty, there were no major breakdowns. I replaced several pipes, rubber boots on the steering rack, everything else was perfect. |
3. | Andrey, 41 years old: I bought a Granta secondhand, 2012, the warranty has expired, but I haven’t made any investments. The plastic creaks a little, but this is fixable. |
4. | Alexander, 35 years old: six months as the owner of the new Granta. The quality of workmanship and assembly is good, there are no complaints, the main thing is to fill in good oils. |
5. | Stanislav, 43 years old: I work as a foreman at a service station. Least of all are Granta clients asking for repairs, except in cases of routine diagnostics. |
6. | Alexey, 45 years old: I really like the Granta model, especially after the VAZ-21099. The plastic material is not very good, but if necessary, you can replace the torpedo. |
Negative | |
1. | Gennady, 44 years old: I sold it to Grant two years ago, I didn’t like the model. The build quality is poor and the material is cheap. I donated money and bought a Renault Logan. |
2. | Vitaly, 36 years old: switched again to Priora, I didn’t like the Granta, it’s damp, there are a lot of flaws. |
3. | Gennady, 48 years old: before purchasing, I had the opportunity to test Granta and Priora, I chose the latter. |
4. | Mikhail, 33 years old: I recently sold Granta because it started to crumble from the first days. Now I drive Renault Logan, I have no complaints. |
Related link:
Lada Granta Liftback
Conclusion
From personal experience I can say with confidence that I used Priora for two years. During this time I learned the advantages and disadvantages and made minor upgrades. Overall, the model is good, but something was missing.
I bought a Grant a year ago and drove more than 30,000 km. There were some minor glitches and some consumables, but overall it was good. Priora station wagon or Granta liftback, which is better: I give preference to Granta. This is the flagship model, it is the future. A little trimming, improvement and there will be a full-fledged domestic “B” class.
Which model to choose
So, if you have a choice between Lada Granta and Priora, determining the best model is not so easy. For example, the Granta is more affordable, looks better outside and inside, is equipped with a more economical engine, has a cable manual transmission, can be equipped with an automatic transmission, etc.
However, the more modern model is inferior to the outdated Priora in terms of stability and controllability. Even compared to the Priora, the Granta loses in terms of body types, since the Lada Priora is offered with several body types (station wagon, hatchback, etc.). Also, the overall level of equipment of the Priora may be no worse than that of the Granta.
As for reliability, many owners can claim that the Granta is more reliable and better assembled. However, those car enthusiasts who switched to Granta after the Priora do not notice much of a difference, since the model is devoid of certain shortcomings, but still has “childhood” diseases.
We also recommend reading the article about the advantages and disadvantages of the Lada Granta “automatic”. From this article you will learn about the type of automatic transmission on the Granta, the pros and cons of this box, and also how the Lada Granta with an automatic transmission turned out in general in comparison with other similar cars.
Moreover, experts note better maintainability and availability of spare parts specifically for Priora, which greatly simplifies the maintenance and repair of this model. However, potential Priora buyers often emphasize that the cost of this model is greatly and unreasonably inflated on the secondary market.
In any case, before purchasing a VAZ Priora or a VAZ Granta, it is recommended to conduct a test drive of both models, as well as optimally compare versions with the same engines and a similar level of equipment. Only in this case can you accurately determine which machine will be best for a particular buyer, taking into account specific requirements and tasks.
It would also be a good idea to make allowances for subsequent maintenance and operating conditions of the car. If you need a car for the track, then handling and safety come to the fore. The body type can also be decisive when choosing a model.
For example, if you need a roomy car and plan to drive frequently and actively on the highway, a Priora in a hatchback body looks more attractive. In turn, for ordinary trips around the city it is more important that the car is economical and comfortable. Lada Granta is quite suitable for such purposes. Moreover, if finances allow, then even a version of the Lada Grant with an automatic transmission can be considered for the city.
Evgeniy (car expert)
“Turn the Engine” is dedicated to one of the greatest blessings of civilization - the piston internal combustion engine. Everything about the operation, service and preventative maintenance of gasoline and diesel internal combustion engines. Useful information on engine and attachment repairs, methods and techniques for carrying out diagnostic procedures. Tuning, engine tuning and competent selection of technical fluids.
Transmission and chassis
Another unconditional victory for Grant, since the opponent only has a five-speed manual transmission. In principle, such a gearbox does not have any particular disadvantages.
True, vibrations are felt when changing positions - one of the main troubles of VAZ gearboxes. In addition, sometimes speed fluctuations also occur.
At the same time, the Grant can have two automatic transmissions at once:
- classic automatic from the JATCO brand at 4 speed;
- five-speed robot AMT 2182 from domestic manufacturers.
Yes, such a transmission requires increased fuel consumption, and in addition, the dynamics of the automatic transmission suffer. At the same time, the models are quite good; they fully correspond to similar units in imported cars for the same price.
But the chassis of the cars is the same, so it’s impossible to determine the leader in the Grant vs Priora competition. A standard semi-independent circuit is used. A torsion beam is installed on the rear axle, and MacPherson struts can be seen at the front.
Discs are installed as the front brake mechanism, drums are used as the rear brake mechanism. Naturally, the suspension is not suitable for aggressive driving, but it copes well with country roads.