CarChooser Review: 2018 Lada Granta I (Facelift 2018) Hatchback 1.6 16V (106 Hp)
A comprehensive review of the Lada Granta I Hatchback, exploring its features, performance, and suitability for various lifestyles.
The 2018 Lada Granta I Hatchback, with its facelift, offers a practical and budget-friendly option for those seeking a reliable vehicle. Known for its simplicity and efficiency, the Granta is a popular choice in markets where affordability and functionality are key. In this review, we'll explore the car's features, performance, and how it fits into different lifestyles, helping you decide if it's the right car for you.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the specifics, let's clarify some essential terms. The Lada Granta I is a hatchback, which means it has a rear door that swings upward, providing easy access to the cargo area. This body style is popular for its practicality, especially in urban settings. The car is powered by a 1.6-liter 16-valve engine, producing 106 horsepower. This engine is naturally aspirated, meaning it doesn't use a turbocharger or supercharger to increase power. Instead, it relies on atmospheric pressure to draw air into the engine.
The Granta's powertrain architecture is based on an internal combustion engine that drives the front wheels, a common setup known as front-wheel drive. This configuration is generally more fuel-efficient and provides better traction in slippery conditions compared to rear-wheel drive.
Performance and Efficiency
The Lada Granta I Hatchback is designed with efficiency in mind. It offers a combined fuel consumption of 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers (36.19 US mpg or 43.46 UK mpg), making it an economical choice for daily commuting. In urban settings, it consumes about 8.7 liters per 100 kilometers (27.04 US mpg or 32.47 UK mpg), while on highways, it improves to 5.2 liters per 100 kilometers (45.23 US mpg or 54.32 UK mpg).
With an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 182 km/h (113.09 mph), the Granta is not a sports car but offers adequate performance for everyday driving. Its weight-to-power ratio of 10.6 kg per horsepower ensures a balanced drive, suitable for city and highway use.
Suitability for Different Lifestyles
City Driving
The Lada Granta's compact dimensions (length of 3926 mm and width of 1700 mm) make it ideal for navigating tight urban spaces and parking in crowded areas. Its turning circle and front-wheel drive enhance maneuverability, making it a practical choice for city dwellers.
Long-Distance Travel
While the Granta is efficient on highways, its modest trunk space (240 liters minimum, 555 liters maximum) might limit luggage capacity for long trips. However, its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride height (160 mm ground clearance) make it a viable option for occasional road trips.
Family Use
With seating for five and five doors, the Granta can accommodate small families. The rear seats can be folded to increase cargo space, providing flexibility for carrying larger items.
Single Ownership
For singles or couples, the Granta offers a balance of affordability, efficiency, and practicality. Its low running costs and straightforward maintenance make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Adventure Lifestyles
While not designed for off-road adventures, the Granta's ground clearance and robust suspension can handle light off-road conditions, such as gravel paths or rural roads.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths: Affordable, fuel-efficient, compact for city driving, practical hatchback design.
- Weaknesses: Limited power for high-speed driving, basic interior features, modest cargo space.
Conclusion
The 2018 Lada Granta I Hatchback is a practical and economical choice for those seeking a reliable vehicle for city driving and occasional road trips. Its compact size, fuel efficiency, and affordability make it a strong contender in the budget car segment. Consider what features matter most to you. Do you prioritize fuel efficiency or cargo space? The Granta might just be the car that fits your needs.
Specifications Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Generation | Granta I (facelift 2018) Hatchback |
| Modification (Engine) | 1.6 16V (106 Hp) |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body Type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined Fuel Consumption | 6.5 l/100 km |
| CO2 Emissions | Not specified |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 182 km/h |
| Emission Standard | Not specified |
| Engine Displacement | 1596 cm3 |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine Configuration | Inline |
| Power Output | 106 Hp |
| Torque | 148 Nm |
| Compression Ratio | 11:1 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Kerb Weight | 1125-1160 kg |
| Max Load | 400-435 kg |
| Trunk Space (Minimum and Maximum) | 240 l - 555 l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 l |
| Length | 3926 mm |
| Width | 1700 mm |
| Height | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2476 mm |
| Drive Wheel System | Front wheel drive |
| Number of Gears (Transmission Type) | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front Suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear Suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Drum |
| Tire Size | 175/65 R14 82 H; 185/60 R14 82 H; 185/55 R15 82 H |
| Wheel Rims Size | 14; 15 |