After a month of operation, there is something to talk about, so let's start without long introductions.

(it turned out a lot of letters)

AMENDMENT TO MAJOR REVIEW.

In the main review, I wrote that my most basic configuration has two airbags. PILLOW there ONLY ONE - the driver. I apologize if I misled someone, apparently inattentively read the package or looked in the wrong place ... ..

FIRST THAT.

After 2300 km, I came to the Dealer for MOT. According to the regulations, it is prescribed to adjust the timing valves in the first MOT, change the engine oil and filter.

The dealer himself (I will not name him) is no worse and no better than all the others dealer centers other brands located nearby. There is experience in communicating with OD Mitsubishi and Mazda, Lada is absolutely at the same level - people are friendly and competent, willingly answer all questions and leave their contacts. You can directly observe what is currently being done with your car.

I decided to fill in synthetic oil 5-40 Rosneft, since Lada recommends - why not fill it in, especially since it is not very expensive and you can always buy it at a gas station.

When adjusting the valves, 3 washers were used (whatever that means...). In general, I asked again that now you can definitely use the car in the normal mode - the serviceman nodded, and from that very moment I didn’t stand on ceremony with the gas pedal. Turnovers per Idling became a little smoother, but did not feel much difference.

FIRST BREAK.

Right before the first MOT, the lid of the glove box (glove compartment) opened and refused to close. The spring jumped out or the plastic burst - x.z. The structure is unbreakable. At the first MOT, he showed a breakdown to the serviceman - a week later they put a new cover on the glove box under warranty. They said that in Kalina this is a common sore. Everything else works flawlessly.

Lew is still exclusively 95th gasoline from normal gas stations. Average consumption on the computer about 8 liters. If you drive according to all the rules and don’t rush too much, it will be 7 liters. with pennies. If you squeeze all the juices out of the engine, the consumption will still not exceed 9l.

The motor is very good.

I read in the comments different opinions about VAZ engines - people have different experiences and ideas about dynamics, so it's hard to find two identical opinions. I don’t have much to compare from other VAZs with anything, except for my brother’s ten (Bogdan), which seems to be a 16-valve. I drove this dozen a couple of times in total - it seemed to me that she had confident traction a little later, but after 4 thousand rpm, the acceleration was more assertive. The 8-valve engine feels smoother and more comfortable, while the 16-valve engine pulls better in extreme conditions. Let me finish the theoretical part on this.

Dynamics is enough for me. From 90 km / h in fourth gear, the car shoots very cheerfully up to 120 km / h, so overtaking a truck on the highway is not a problem. (The wildest accelerating car I've ever driven was an Audi 200 with a 220hp 3B turbo and all-wheel drive, so I guess that there are cars faster than Kalina). In fifth gear at a speed of 100 km / h, the revolutions are in the region of 3 thousand rpm and the thrust is quite confident. After 4.2 thousand rpm, the thrust begins to decrease, but in principle, up to 5 thousand rpm, the car accelerates. On the high speeds the car is stable, no eerie howl of the engine or the whistle of the wind, directional stability at a high level. Claimed maximum speed true I think...

The box works fine, the transmission is a pleasure to stick.

The operation of the brakes requires some getting used to, because the dependence of the car deceleration on the force of pressing the brake pedal is not linear, but rather exponential (progressive (.. you get the idea ...)). At first it seems that the brake pedal is empty, but with a stronger pressure, the deceleration grows like an avalanche, Kalina throws out the anchor and sticks into the asphalt like a stake. In general, this is not very suitable for aggressive driving, and for driving in normal mode it is perceived even more comfortable - you can carelessly stomp on the brakes.

In corners there was a slight tendency to oversteer under the throttle. The primers still do not dry out so that you can fully appreciate the handling, but on the pavement such a feeling arises. If gas is added - the machine is as it should be for front wheel drive straightens the path. In general, everything related to suspension arms, stabilizers and struts works stably and is assembled, albeit without frills. Spoils the picture steering, which, although it became a little more pleasant compared to the new car, did not acquire a distinct reactive force on the steering wheel in the near-zero zone.

There are also changes in external sounds. If it was completely quiet before, now sounds come from time to time from somewhere to the right. Actually, I did not expect that the salon would be completely silent, so while Kalina exceeds my expectations in this regard.

In general, Kalina Cross is quite a pleasant and understandable car to drive. Visibility is excellent, mirrors are large. Small dimensions make it easy to maneuver in the city. You can park in the same way as on an SUV - until the wheel hits the curb.

The wife got used to Kalina quickly and does not experience any problems with control, she simply lowers the steering wheel. The daughter sits in the back in the armchair and sings songs - it means everything is fine.)

OFF-ROAD POTENTIAL.

Good geometry gives tangible advantages on roads that look like just yesterday they were fired from howitzers by the Nazis - i.e. Approximately 25% of all Russian roads. You feel very confident. On the muddy ground, tires are more difficult to drive, which are instantly washed out and their grip properties tend to zero. Hence the conclusion - it’s better not to meddle in the muddy black soil, and if you really need to, then you need to take the mud on the move, and not try to go “to the tightness”. I haven’t stuck anywhere yet and haven’t skidded, because I’m not looking for any special adventures. There is a vague desire to install a self-block in the front differential just for mud, but this automatically nullifies the warranty on the corresponding components, as if until the warranty runs out I will drive like this - it can even be better ...

CARGO CAPABILITIES.

We have to transport a lot of things both for work and for personal needs - construction is underway. With a partially folded back sofa, I easily transported 6 chandeliers in boxes, all electrics also in boxes, a chainsaw in a box, two-meter cable channels ... At the same time, I didn’t even have to remove the shelf and there were two places left for passengers - in fact, why you need to buy station wagons.

Bought the same cross rails. At speeds over 100 km / h from them an obsessive aerodynamic rumble. I took it off and left it in the garage - if you really want something so long to take away, you can always screw it on.

WISH TO DESIGNERS.

1. The edge of the roof above the windshield sticks out about a centimeter above it and all midges, pebbles and branches fly into this edge. There is already one point chipped paint. I think this edge will be the first to rust if nothing is done.

2. Engine compartment very heavily polluted. There is a decent gap between the edge of the hood and the radiator lining, the radiator lining itself is made of very large cells, dirt flies from the holes in the front wheel arches in which you can even see through one another through. If at the same time everything works, then so be it - better heat dissipation and lower weight), but if I designed the car, I would plug all this ventilation with something.

3. The wiper and air conditioner relays, if they cannot be made silent, you can at least move them somewhere under the hood, otherwise they are ticking from somewhere under the steering wheel ... these are not the sounds that you want to constantly listen to.

4. The moment of turning on and off the air conditioner is accompanied by such a light kick - you can probably come up with some kind of damper to stretch this moment at least a little in time.

5. The lid of the glove compartment, which is on top of the torpedo as on a gazelle, is made of glossy plastic. In the sun, a glare from it constantly looms in the windshield.

6. At noon and at certain angles of illumination during the day on dashboard nothing is visible, except for a glare. If the visor of the instrument panel were a centimeter longer or the instruments themselves were more recessed into the torpedo, there would be no problem.

Everyone understands that the power steering is better than the EUR.

Everything else is good.

ELECTRIC.

to be praised multimedia system. Not only does it look pretty, it also works very well. The control is simple and understandable (at least for a person with minimal experience with such devices), the sound is 4. The telephone microphone is deaf, the interlocutors do not hear me very well, but in general everything works fine.

Bought a radar detector with GPS. It turned out in color just in the theme of interior design (although I thought about it at the very last turn). By the way, this same anti-radar revealed such a feature that the speedometer is a little bit down. So at a speedometer of 110 km / h, according to GPS, the speed is 112-113 km / h (the Mazda CX-5 speedometer with the same anti-radar lies up by the same 2-3 km / h).

It is strange that the air conditioner turns on automatically every time the engine is started, if the regulator is set to cool. The socket is not de-energized when the engine is turned off and the keys are removed from the lock. i.e. She is always energized.

I really like the headlights, but sometimes the oncoming lights blink high beam, although I'm driving in the middle, it may need to be adjusted a little.

LYRICAL CONCLUSION.

I drive a car every day and the thought never arose that they say “I would like to drive here on Logan now” or something like that. On the contrary, I understand that on the same Logan I would not have driven as much during this first month as I had driven on Kalina, simply because in some cases he simply would not have passed and most likely got stuck, but in other cases I would have been sorry so mock him and get dirty.

Of course, when you drive a Pajero or even an CX-5, they let you pass more willingly, there are fewer people who want to cut you off or somehow show their superiority on the road - such is the psychology of drivers in Russia, but I noticed that Kalina Cross collects interested views at times more than Pajero, Logans and Solaris put together, often people do not even believe that this is a Zhiguli. Everyone I brought up was happy.

There is one more psychological moment - it gives some special pleasure to realize the fact that you are driving domestic Zhiguli and you really like them. Not because you have nothing to compare with or you have spent your whole life on a penny, but simply because you like this car.

Many fans of the AvtoVAZ model series know that Kalina Cross was created on the basis of Kalina 2 in a station wagon. Until now, motorists are arguing whether this was a rational decision, and how much the two cars differ from each other. Honestly, appearance VAZ-21946 (aka "Kalina Cross") immediately shows that the car is clearly off-road. But do the differences end there? Let's look into this issue by comparing: Kalina 2 and Kalina Cross.

Specifications

The first thing to start comparing the two cars is, of course, the main specifications. In this regard, Lada Kalina 2 and Kalina Cross are very similar in some aspects of consideration.

Motors, components and their gearboxes are approximately the same, the differences are not significant here:

• Kalina 2: VAZ-11186 (87 hp, 8-valve, 1.6 l) is equipped only with manual transmission-5; VAZ-21126 (98 hp, 16-valve, 1.6 l) and VAZ-21127 (106 hp, 16-valve, 1.6 l) are equipped with both manual transmission-5 and automatic transmission-4 (optional).
• Kalina Cross: VAZ-11186 (87 hp, 8-valve, 1.6 l) is equipped only with manual transmission-5; VAZ-21127 (106 hp, 16-valve, 1.6 l) is equipped with both manual transmission-5 and RKPP-5 (works) - also to choose from.

As a result, consumption, maximum speed and acceleration to 100 km / h are approximately equal, Cross can have a slight advantage of a slight 0.1-0.3 seconds. Specification data:

• acceleration to "hundreds: 11.2-13.7 seconds;
• consumption per 100 km: combined cycle - 6.7-7.7 liters;
• maximum speed: 167-177 km / h.

Both vehicles fully comply with EURO-4 environmental standards.

However, the significant changes of Kalina Cross from the “station wagon” are in a heavily rebuilt suspension / transmission, for example:

• reinforced stabilizing struts roll stability;
• raised ratio main couple transmissions (from 3.7 station wagon to 3.9 for Cross);
• increased ground clearance;
• shock absorbers were upgraded;
• many suspension units have been reinforced, for example, the rear beam.

In the remaining nodes, the two models are completely identical and have no differences.

Attention! All in all, technical equipment slightly better at Kalina Cross and it is primarily aimed not at increasing power (cars are equal in this parameter), but at improving cross-country ability and stability, which is most important for driving over rough terrain.

Dimensions and exterior

Important parameters in comparing two cars are dimension and appearance. It is impossible to single out something in them and say that this is the only correct conclusion, since different people have an individual opinion on this matter: someone needs a bigger car, someone needs a smaller one, not to mention the exterior. However, it would be useful to present these characteristics.

So, the dimensions of Kalina 2 and Kalina Cross are as follows:

• length: 4084 and 4104 mm;
• width: 1700 and 1700 mm;
• height: 1504 and 1560 mm;
• wheelbase: 2476 and 2476;
• clearance: 185 and 208 mm;
• weight: 1075-1160 and 1125-1160 kg.

There is no need to be a specialist here - Cross is slightly larger than his "comrade". The main thing that is worth highlighting here is the ground clearance, increased by as much as 23 mm. Kalina Cross will be a clear leader in cross-country ability, which will be discussed below.

As for the exterior, here, too, the similarity is quite high. The more aggressive look of the Cross is immediately striking, which indicates the off-road nature of the car. This is expressed in such body elements as:

• moldings on the side doors;
• roof rails;
• thick, plastic pads on the area of ​​thresholds and arches.

To this should also be added big wheels 15 inches, the wagon has only 14 inches. In all other respects, Kalina of the second generation and Cross are the same.

Attention! How much this or that car in terms of aesthetic parameters is better - everyone will decide individually. It can be precisely stated that Kalina Cross is more aggressive and tall, the “station wagon”, in turn, is less catchy and represents typical car for city driving.

Interior

The design of cars inside, despite their general similarity, is by far the most “copied” aspect in all Kalina. The main differences between the Cross and the "station wagon" are in such features as:

• completely redone seats, more sporty in nature (many say that they are also more comfortable);
• in some places, the reinforced structure of the fastenings of the entire upholstery (for example, on arches);
• in cars of bright orange color there are insert elements of the same color on the seats, doors, etc., in a more restrained color scheme bright inserts are replaced by gray ones.

The rest of the interior elements of the cabin are completely similar, you will not find any innovations, except for the branded inserts of the name "Cross".

Trunk volume has not changed - 355-361 liters in the stock position and 670 - with the seats folded down. By the way, the capacity of the tank also remained the same - 50 liters. Decoration is made from standard materials for VAZ: plastic and fabric.

Despite the fact that the Cross in the cabin has been slightly worked out, the interior is almost the same. So in this aspect, it makes no sense to choose between cars.

patency

Increased throughput parameters - that's what Kalina Cross was created for. Without any doubt, permeability this car higher than the wagon. As noted earlier, the clearance of Kalina Cross is 23 mm more, this result was achieved thanks to:

• increasing the suspension itself - plus 13-17 mm;
• installation of 15-inch disks, instead of 14-inch - plus 5-8 mm.

Experienced drivers are in no hurry to rejoice at the increased ground clearance, because the higher the car, the less stable it is. Yes, this is true, but that is why the suspension has been strengthened and the only correct center of gravity has been set. It should be understood that Kalina Cross is not an SUV, but an all-terrain wagon aimed at overcoming mediocre off-road conditions. He copes with his task quite well, judging by the reviews of the owners.

In addition, the increased ground clearance reduces the risk of sitting on the “bottom”, which happens all the time in the Russian rough terrain. Definitely, Kalina Cross has higher cross-country ability.

Complete set

Almost the main guideline when choosing a particular car for many people is the availability of functional equipment, that is, useful options. Everyone knows that this aspect depends on the chosen configuration. How are things with them at Kalina 2 and Cross?

Attention! It should be noted right away that in this parameter better Kalina 2, because the manufacturer offers to choose between three various configurations with various additions (comfort, comfort +, classic, navigation): Standard, Norma and Lux. While Cross has only two of them without any additions: Norma and Lux.

When choosing a basic configuration, the station wagon helps to save a significant amount, since it includes a set of the most necessary options:

• electric power steering;
• adjustable seat belts;
• power windows and more.

More “cool” options are present in the Norma and Lux ​​trim levels, there are a lot of them and you can get acquainted with them at official dealer. However, in choosing a certain configuration, as noted earlier, Kalina 2 is much better. Due to what? Due to a more flexible selection of add-ons, since using various add-ons. packages, you can choose whatever your heart desires. If we take each addition and each configuration as a separate configuration option, then there are as many as 7 of them, against 2 for Kalina Cross. Significant advantage, right?

The cost of cars is approximately equal: from 450,000 rubles to 600,000. However, Kalina Cross has a slightly lower limit and amounts to 550,000 in the maximum configuration. This is due to the fact that in maximum luxury the universal has automatic transmission, instead of a cheaper "robot" from a colleague.

Results

Comparison is a subjective concept, therefore it is irrational to give a definite answer to the question of Kalina Cross or Kalina 2. Based on the information presented above, everyone will be able to draw a certain conclusion for themselves. The only thing that can be objectively stated is that Kalina is good both in the city and off-road, but Kalina 2 in the station wagon is a more urban, parquet car, but more convenient in terms of choice. What is your priority is up to you. Good luck on the roads!

Comparison of the clearance of Kalina 2 and Cross:

INSTRUCTION No. 58-13
In accordance with the ongoing changes at JSC AVTOVAZ to improve customer satisfaction and introduce changes to the scope of maintenance work for LADA GRANTA and NEW LADA KALINA
I REQUIRE:

1. For LADA GRANTA from 20.03.2013 the list of works on TO-1 is regulated by Notice No. 430-13 dated 06/07/2013. (only valve adjustment is made on 8 valve engines). For the car NEW LADA KALINA, the list of works on TO-1 is regulated by Notice No. 424-13 dated 05/23/2013.
2. All cars LADA GRANTA, NEW LADA KALINA, regardless of the date of issue, in which semi-synthetic engine oil (5W30) is used, fall under the changed scope of work. Information about the filling in the car engine oil is given in the Vehicle Operation Manual, section "For Your Attention!", in the service book for such vehicles there is no operation on TO-1 to replace oil filter and oil in the crankcase. Upon arrival by the consumer for TO-2, the requirement for the availability of records of the TO-1 carried out on cars from 16 valve engine is unfounded.
3. At the same time, service books for LADA GRANTA cars (circulation since April 2013) and service books for NEW LADA KALINA cars have an additional restriction on maintenance not only in terms of vehicle mileage, but also in terms of service life vehicle. In this regard, I explain that the passage of the next MOT by the period of operation must be carried out at the end of the year of operation of the car, if it occurs earlier than the passage of the next MOT by mileage is provided. The consumer can carry out the next maintenance according to the period of operation 5 days before the end of the year of operation of the car using coupons service book and no later than 10 days from the end of the year of operation of the car according to the coupons of the service book. The end date of the next year of operation and the mileage interval until the next maintenance (plus 15 thousand km from the mileage at the time of the current maintenance and plus or minus 500 km from 15 thousand km) must be entered in the service book in the "Special Marks" section, certified seal of the dealer, the consumer must be familiarized against signature with the next date and mileage of the next MOT.
4. If the next MOT occurs by mileage, then, by analogy with paragraph 3, the end date of the next year of operation (the next MOT) must be entered in the service book in the "Special Marks" section, certified by the dealer's seal, the consumer must be familiarized with the signature of the next date and the mileage of the next maintenance.
5. If the consumer of a LADA GRANTA car has an old-style service book, i.e. without restriction on the passage of maintenance, taking into account the period of operation of the car, these cars are subject to the next maintenance only with a restriction on the mileage of the car.
6. The requirements of paragraphs 3.4 in the order of making entries in the "Special Marks" section of the service book also apply to LADA car LARGUS.
7. Bring this information to the consumer by placing the Order on the information stand.

Vice President A.A. Fedosov