Back in 2012, visitors to the Moscow Motor Show and experts were pleasantly surprised by the presented Lada X Ray Concept crossover. The premiere meant a radically new approach to the future production of cars by the Tolyatti Automobile Plant. Since then, various publications have published rare pictures in which the new product could be seen.
The description of the Lada X Ray and the technical data of the car aroused the widest interest, which continues today. 2014 confirmed the desire of domestic automakers to produce modern, attractive cars - the Lada X Ray Concept 2 was presented, which was already very close to a production model.
Where is the crossover assembled? In December 2015, the serial production of the “high hatchback” B-class began in Tolyatti. X Ray Lada (photo above) has an original interior and exterior design, and is, according to manufacturers, the flagship of the new series of VAZ cars. The B0 line, where production of the crossover began, has been significantly modernized. In the future, it is planned to use automobile manufacturing capacities in Kazakhstan.
- Optima
Options and prices
The price for the basic Optima package starts from RUB 629,900. It is equipped with a 1.6 engine (106 hp) and includes two airbags, an audio system, and front electric windows.
The Luxe modification costs 740,900 rubles. and higher. There are: air conditioning, climate control, heated windows, fog lights, parking sensors. And for an additional fee you will get a 1.8 engine - 122 hp.
The price for the Lada X-Ray Exclusive package starts from 835,900 rubles. There is leather and suede upholstery of the seats.
Drive is front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive is not available.
Purely mechanically: how does the Lada XRAY 1.8 drive with a “handle”?
Until now, the Lada XRAY hatchback with a 1.8 engine was offered only with the VAZ “robot” AMT. But now an alternative has appeared with the usual “mechanics” - I went to Tolyatti to get acquainted with such a modification.
As they say, they hit you not on your passport, but on your face. If you believe the technical characteristics, then in accelerating to “hundreds” the XRAY with “mechanics” is faster than the robotic one by only half a second: 10.4 versus 10.9. But it feels like there is an abyss between them!
Having gotten rid of the sluggish VAZ AMT with all its pecks and freezes, the 1.8 engine simply blossomed! Moreover, if on Vesta with the same 1.8 engine they will soon “marry” the VAZ manual gearbox model 21807, then Xray is destined for an international union with the five-speed “French” Renault JR5-523. It is assembled in the same AvtoVAZ workshop with a related gearbox JR5-518 (which comes with the VAZ 1.6 engine) and is designed for greater torque: 200 versus 160 Nm. For example, here the driven disk of the Valeo clutch has been increased to 215 mm versus the 206 mm LuK disk of the JR5-518 unit. So there should be no problems with reliability: with the loads of life tests, for example, Renault gearboxes cope more successfully than original VAZ ones.
From September, the grayness of the interior can be diluted with colored inserts - for now only brown
But the most important thing is that the main gear, compared to the JR5-518, has become “longer”: from 4.5 to 4.214, and the fifth gear has also changed - from 0.795 to 0.756. So on the highway, the hand rarely reaches for the Logan lever in search of the non-existent sixth gear: in fifth at 100 km/h the engine produces a quite acceptable 2600 rpm. And in the city, the high-torque VAZ-21179 engine pulls well at 70 km/h at 1700 rpm, delivering 150 Nm of its maximum 170 Nm.
At the same time, the “mechanized” XRAY with a 1.8 engine is more pleasant than the two-pedal one, not only in its character, but also in its 25 thousand rubles lower price. The cars are already being shipped to dealers. The Optima Advanced version with two airbags, ESP, air conditioning, heated seats and an audio system is priced at 669 thousand rubles, and the XRAY in the top version of Luxe Prestige with climate control, media system and rear view camera costs 754 thousand.
Due to leaks, the windshield washer nozzles stopped painting even on top versions
As for Iksreev’s “robot” VAZ-2182, he also got something new. I remember that as soon as we got stuck even a little on a wet dirt road during endurance testing, the transmission gave up, instantly overheating the clutch - and this despite the fact that the non-disconnectable traction control system was constantly “choking” the engine when slipping. But since October, the Valeo clutch on the “robot” has been strengthened - with new, more heat-resistant linings of the driven disc. And most importantly, now all versions of Xray have an Off button: hold it for two seconds and the anti-skid system turns off along with the stability control system. Another thing! I not only easily descended to the bank of the Volga, but also climbed back onto the road along a steep, slippery slope. And upon reaching 60 km/h, the system turns on itself, helping to maintain directional stability.
When removing the decorative engine cover, the fasteners no longer fly off: they are welded properly
So I recommend that Xray owners go to the dealer in the near future and get a function to turn off the “collar”. For modification, in addition to the button itself, you will only need a new plastic lining of the console and an additional wiring harness, and the price of the “improved sizing” will soon be announced by VAZ.
But I would definitely not recommend another innovation, tires of size 205/50 R17 instead of 205/55 R16. By default, only the top Luxe versions with the Prestige package for 35 thousand rubles are equipped with these, but they can be installed on any XRAY. Only new front fender liners will be useful, slightly widening the wheel arches. By the way, it makes sense to use them instead of plastic ones with any wheels: snow porridge and sand slap on the “felt” much more quietly.
• Seventeen-inch wheels can only be installed in conjunction with new “soft” front fender liners • Door seals have been improved both in design and rubber composition. Works!
The XRAY with 17-inch wheels looks a little more harmonious, but the potholes on Samara roads seem to have become larger with them, and the seams and joints are sharper. And the steering wheel hits your hands harder. A classic case: beauty requires sacrifice! I'd rather live with 16 inch tires.
| Passport details | |
| Automobile | Lada XRAY |
| Body type | five-door hatchback |
| Number of places | 5 |
| Curb weight, kg | 1185 |
| Engine | petrol |
| Location | front, transverse |
| Number and arrangement of cylinders | 4, in a row |
| Number of valves | 16 |
| Working volume, cm³ | 1774 |
| Max. power, hp/kW/rpm | 122/90/6000 |
| Max. torque, Nm/rpm | 170/3750 |
| Transmission | manual, 5-speed |
| Drive unit | front |
| Tire size | 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16, 205/50 R17 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 185 |
| Acceleration time 0—100 km/h, s | 10,4* |
| Fuel consumption, l/100 km | |
| urban cycle | 9,7** (9,5*) |
| suburban cycle | 6,0** (5,9*) |
| mixed cycle | 7,4**(7,2*) |
| Fuel tank capacity, l | 50 |
| * With wheels 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16 | |
| ** With wheels 205/50 R17 | |
Salon
The quality of finishing here is at a high level. The plastic is hard, but fits well and does not creak. The covers are made of high-quality fabric with leatherette inserts. The steering wheel is thickened for a comfortable grip and covered with a leatherette cover.
The dashboard, made in a futuristic design, is compact and informative. The large display makes it easy to read information, and the air conditioner control panel is simple and clear.
The front seats have a wide range of adjustment, allowing you to sit comfortably no matter your height. However, if tall passengers are sitting in front, there will not be enough space in the back due to the backrests of the seats.
The sound insulation of the engine compartment is good, but when driving on crushed stone, the wheel arches transmit the impacts of stones.
Hatchback Lada X Ray
AvtoVAZ designers, even before the start of development of the production model, stated that this car would not claim the title of urban crossover, even despite the huge external similarity. In all sources, due to this, this car is referred to exclusively as a hatchback (or SUV).
Many domestic car enthusiasts were looking forward to the new Lada XRay hatchback - the characteristics and almost complete elimination of all the errors of previous failed models played a role. The car is perfect for both city driving and for traveling on broken gravel roads, thanks to its high (195 mm when running) ground clearance and powerful suspension. The suspension, according to experts, turned out to be very dynamic and pleasant: the front is made independent, according to the MacPherson system, and the rear is a solid elastic beam with powerful springs.
Despite the fact that this model is not an SUV, the designers have done everything possible to make this car more stable on the track. The rear axle is 35 mm longer than the front, making the car much more dynamic and maneuverable than expected from a car of similar dimensions.
Power units
The technical characteristics of the new Lada X-Ray largely depend on the power units used for its assembly. It is worth considering the possibilities proposed by the designers and evaluating everything that can be placed under the hood of this model.
The simplest and cheapest power unit used to equip this car consists of a standard VAZ 1.6-liter engine with a capacity of 106 horsepower and is complemented by a French five-speed manual transmission from Renault. Both the engine and the manual transmission have already been used in a number of previous developments (the engine was used with resounding success in the development of the Lada Vesta sedan, the gearbox was also used in the assembly of this model). The domestically produced manual transmission is not used due to its noise, which could not be “cured” after the Lada Kalina went on sale.
A more advanced version of the power unit combines the same transmission with a 1.6-liter engine from Nissan, producing 110 horsepower. The difference is quite small, but this motor is objectively better than the domestic one, more productive and more durable.
The most powerful power unit proposed for the Lada XRay hatchback combines a 1.8 liter sixteen-valve engine with a power of 122 hp. with a five-speed robotic automatic transmission (AMT). The characteristics of the Lada X-Ray automatic machine will be significantly higher than those of previous configurations, due to the significantly greater engine power. However, fuel consumption will also increase significantly, which makes the best power unit offered a “double-edged sword.”
Speed, acceleration and fuel consumption
Each of the proposed power units has its own capabilities. They are worth considering in more detail.
- The power unit based on a 106-horsepower engine has good fuel consumption (7.6 liters per 100 kilometers), but rather weak acceleration (11.9 seconds from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour). The maximum speed of the model equipped with this engine is only 170 km/h - lower than that of the basic Vesta due to its greater weight.
- The power unit based on a 110-horsepower engine accelerates much faster - from zero to hundreds it can accelerate in just 10.3 seconds. The maximum speed is not much different from the previous unit - only 171 km/h, but fuel consumption is significantly lower and is only 6.9 liters per 100 kilometers.
- The most powerful and productive unit based on a 122-horsepower engine is capable of reaching speeds of up to 183 km/h and is much more dynamic. However, automatic gear shifting significantly reduces the vehicle's ability to accelerate quickly from a standstill. With more power, this power unit allows you to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 10.9 seconds. However, the automatic allows you to reduce fuel consumption: you need only 7.1 liters per 100 km.
This calculation allows us to say with confidence that the X-Ray “Optima” configuration, equipped exclusively with the first type of power unit, is unlikely to be in high demand. It will be more profitable for the buyer to purchase a more advanced version, which will be both more convenient and cheaper to use.
Options
Currently, the car is offered in four configuration types, the characteristics and prices of which are already known and publicly available on the official website of the AvtoVAZ concern. There are two main configurations (Optima and Top) and two packages of additional options available to equip a car with a certain configuration (Comfort - for the basic one, Prestige - for the highest one).
It is noteworthy that the basic version of the Optima (without the Comfort option package) can be equipped exclusively with the first described power unit. All other versions of the car can be equipped with either a second or a third power unit, depending on the buyer’s preferences.
The interior and “filling” of cars seriously depend on which configuration the user chooses. For example, a radio and on-board computer are already present in the basic version of the Lada X-Ray, and air conditioning appears only when choosing a version no lower than Comfort. The maximum configuration offers the buyer a comfortable interior with leather elements, a touchscreen multimedia panel (known from Vesta), heated seats and a lot of other pleasant and useful functions.
Comfort and safety
The basic equipment of the car includes an expanded range of security systems. Each Lada X Rey has two airbags, front seat belts with a pre-tensioning mechanism and a load limiter. For the safety of children, the car is equipped with ISOFIX child seat anchors and an automatic door closing function while driving.
All versions of Lada Xray are equipped with ERA-GLONASS - an emergency warning system. In the event of a collision, the GPS sensor will inform the rescue services all the details of the incident: the coordinates and speed of the vehicle.
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) function is responsible for active safety. This intelligent system includes several safety options: ABS, BAS - external brake assist, TSC - traction control, EBD - electronic brake force distribution.
The top-end Lada X Rey in the Luxe configuration with the Prestige package is equipped with cruise control with a speed limiting function. The system maintains the desired speed without pressing the gas pedal and prevents the driver from exceeding the speed threshold set by the driver.
The hatchback is equipped with all modern comfort elements: climate control, heated seats, sound insulation and electric power steering. The Exclusive modification is equipped with leather upholstery on the seats and steering wheel.
pros
Lada X Ray has adopted all the advantages from the previous Sandero model. But the manufacturers did not stop there and improved their product. As a result, sales of the X Ray exceeded those of its progenitor.
Main advantages:
- Clearance.
The distance from the ground to the car body is 19.5 cm. The car easily overcomes city curbs of a standard height of 15.0 cm. Outside the city, on non-paved roads, the large clearance also ensures good cross-country ability.
- Suspension.
The manufacturer retained the design of the previous model, improving it. There is a MacPherson strut at the front and an elastic beam at the rear. Compared to Sandero, the beam is increased by 37 mm. The design of the suspension is simple and does not cause problems for the owner. While driving, the suspension roll is minimal, allowing you to drive out of ruts.
- Economical fuel consumption.
Fuel consumption of the Lada Xray ranges from 6 to 9 liters. The car is quite economical, and it accelerates easily at traffic lights and when overtaking.
- Capacity.
In the trunk of the Lada there is a raised floor for tools that are not needed on a daily basis. Thanks to this, the car is quite spacious despite its small size.
- Electronics.
The standard equipment includes electric drive, alarm system, heated windows and mirrors, and rain sensors. Additional equipment includes rear parking sensors, a rear view camera, and climate control.
- Soundproofing.
When driving fast and in bad weather conditions outside, the cabin will remain quiet.
- Body.
All body parts are made of galvanized materials. The car is durable and does not rust. Withstands impacts from gravel, resulting chips are not significant.
- Appearance.
The way the Lada X-Ray looks attracts the attention of car enthusiasts. The design is discreet and at the same time elegant.
LADA XRAY is ahead of its competitors in terms of interior equipment. Even in the basic configuration, the car is equipped with a reliable safety system: a stabilization system, 2 airbags and the Era-Gronass system, which in the event of an accident determines the degree of the accident and the location of the victims in the vehicle. Afterwards, the system sends a distress signal to the Ministry of Emergency Situations operator through the nearest cellular operator.
Additional equipment includes a traffic jam display system, climate control, entrance and exit lighting, alloy wheels with a diameter of 17 inches, and eco-leather seat upholstery.
Specifications
The buyer is offered 3 types of power units with a capacity of 106, 110 and 122 hp. and volumes of 1.6 and 1.8 liters. Gearbox - mechanical or robotic.
The front has MacPherson strut suspension with telescopic shock absorbers. The rear track is increased, which gives stability while driving. The car is equipped with an electro-hydraulic booster.
Luggage compartment volume is 361 liters with an option to increase to 1200 liters.
Performance characteristics of the Lada X Rey:
- length - 4165 mm,
- width - 1764;
- height - 1570 mm;
- ground clearance - 195 mm;
- fuel tank volume - 50 liters.
Total weight 1650 kg. With the most powerful engine, the car accelerates to 100 in 10.4 seconds. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle is 7.2 liters.
The regular Lada X Ray does not have all-wheel drive, but there is a possibility that it will appear in the Lada Xray Cross.
Exterior Lada X Ray
When creating the model, the task was to hide the similarity with its predecessors and “co-platforms”. This was completely successful. The car looks stylish, modern and original, while it is memorable and subsequently recognizable at first sight. Car owners like the new corporate X-style and have every chance of further continuation. You can see the details and details in the photo of the Lada X Ray.
The basic aspect of style is always the front of the car. The front view fully demonstrates the new face of the brand – dynamism and sportiness. The car is strikingly different from previous models. The dark, integral radiator grille in the shape of the letter X is decorated with a chrome emblem and highlighted by side chrome zigzag elements. They reach modern stylish optics, into which LED chains of running lights are integrated.
The side view shows a sloping roof, a large slope of the windshield, and stylish X-shaped side stampings, which only enhances the impression of swiftness and dynamism.
From the rear, the car looks strict and smart. The trunk lid is compact, the taillights have a stylish, complex shape, and all this is crowned with an impressive plastic bumper trim.
The color range is represented by seven body paint colors and three types of coating. Lada X Rey body colors:
- black – “Black Pearl” (metalized enamel);
- gray-beige – “Basalt Gray” (metallic);
- red – “Fire Red” (metallic);
- silver beige – “Platinum” (metallic);
- orange – “Fresh” (pearl enamel);
- white – “Glacial” (non-metalized enamel).
The available colors of the Lada X Ray are shown in the photo.
Pros and cons of the model
Positive features of the model:
- comfortable and strong suspension;
- high-quality brakes;
- the “robot” adapts to the driver;
- quite powerful motor;
- good sound insulation;
- The trunk is roomy for everyday trips;
- large clearance;
- sufficient overview;
- fan washer nozzles;
- convenient multimedia;
- rear view camera and parking sensors;
- climate control;
- Maintenance once every 15,000 km.
Not without its drawbacks:
- interior trim - hard plastic;
- little space in the back;
- no ESP switch;
- interior deflectors blow in the wrong direction;
- windage on the track;
- lack of armrest;
- single-level heated seats;
- tight pedal assembly;
- transmissions are short;
- The steering wheel is not adjustable for reach.
SUV Lada X Ray Cross
The characteristics of the Lada XRay crossover are not yet known. However, it is known that they plan to produce it in two versions: permanent and switchable all-wheel drive. What changes will have to affect these cars in order for them to be considered full-fledged SUVs - off-road vehicles?
First of all, the powertrain layout will probably be significantly redesigned. All-wheel drive transmits engine forces to both wheel axles, ultimately reducing the maximum speed and dynamics of the car in exchange for increased traction. To ensure that the car does not become too slow, the characteristics of the motors will have to be sufficient to meet the needs of all-wheel drive. It is assumed that the base engine will be the currently used 1.8-liter engine from AvtoVAZ with a rated power of 122 horsepower, and to equip more advanced versions - a turbocharged engine of the same brand, enhanced to 140 horsepower.
Most likely, changes will also affect the suspension. The characteristics of the Lada XRay Cross should be aimed at ensuring that the car can be operated comfortably even in off-road conditions. Still, a hatchback with front-wheel drive, although it is the optimal combination of capabilities, is designed primarily for urban use. The suspension, according to experts, will have to be strengthened and modified to fully comply with the portrait of the future SUV.
There is also unconfirmed information that has become available to the public that the concern is going to stop developing all-wheel drive versions of X-Ray. Many Russian motorists have already expressed dissatisfaction with this fact.
However, reviews of the Lada XRay contain too many references to the expectation of all-wheel drive versions for the management of the AvtoVAZ concern to turn a blind eye to them and stop development. As some statistics show, almost half of all car enthusiasts are looking forward to the cross-version of X Rey.
Competitors
Main competitors of Lada Xray:
- Renault Sandero StepWay. Despite many common details, Sandero and Lada X Ray have different technical characteristics. The engines of the “French” are more attractive and the technology is more sophisticated. The car is one of the most interesting in its class. The appearance of the car is very nice and there is no doubt about the quality of the car. The interior is one of the most thoughtful in its class. The Sandero StepWay costs 630,000 rubles - only slightly more than the Lada costs. Many experts believe that the XRAY is overpriced, making Renault a serious competitor.
- Dastun mi-DO. The car belongs to the class of tall hatchbacks and has an interesting appearance. Datsun is assembled in Tolyatti, the car has already won appreciation in Russia. The interior is well suited for Russian conditions, democratic, but tasteful. Ground clearance of 160 mm is enough to overcome unpleasant places. There is one engine - 1.6 liters, 82 hp, manual or automatic. The cheapest version costs only 462,000 rubles, which is a serious claim to leadership. Dastun also competes with Lada Vesta.
- Suzuki SX-4 Classic. This is already a full-fledged crossover, however, its cost is higher, it starts from 785,000 rubles. The SX-4 Classic has excellent technical parameters and excellent cross-country ability. This car will be the best buy in its class. The 1.6 liter petrol engine produces 112 hp. The technical part has surprisingly high endurance even in difficult Russian conditions. The transmission can be either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. However, it is not worth driving it into serious off-road conditions.
Design features
The new hatchback has a chassis that provides a combination of excellent handling and high ground clearance. The front suspension is of the MacPherson type and is independent, and the rear axle beam has a larger track. In the Lada Xray, VAZ uses unique spring mechanisms produced by Mubea, which have an S shape, as well as shock absorbers from Tenecco.
The weight of the hatchback is distributed between the axles in a percentage ratio - 51 (front) to 49 (rear).
Initially, the new car is available in a front-wheel drive version, but the launch of mass production of the Lada X Rey crossover, which has an all-wheel drive version, is planned for 2022.
The weight of the car is 1650 kg. The brakes are disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear wheels.
