In the midst of war and sweeping international sanctions, Russian carmaker AVTOVAZ has fired back with something no one expected: a brand-new, fully homegrown SUV. Meet the Lada Azimut, the brand’s first truly modern SUV in decades — and the most expensive Lada ever made.
A Statement of Intent in a Time of Isolation
While the global auto industry is rapidly electrifying and leaning heavily on international partnerships, Lada is doing the opposite — and doing it loudly. The Azimut was designed, engineered, and developed entirely within Russia, a direct result of severed ties with Western tech suppliers.
Yet, despite the limitations, the result is surprisingly solid. Production is set to begin in 2026, with local pricing estimated between 2.5 and 3 million rubles — or roughly €27,700 to €33,300. That price bracket puts the Azimut in a completely new category for Lada, historically known for ultra-budget cars.
Styling and Dimensions: A Modern Look with Russian Grit
Visually, the Azimut is a five-door SUV that wouldn’t look out of place in a European showroom. It sports short overhangs, muscular fender lines, LED daytime running lights, two-tone body paint, 18-inch wheels, and black cladding that screams “urban off-roader.” A rear LED light bar, roof rails, and a shark-fin antenna round off the exterior.
Ground clearance stands at a respectable 208 mm, making it more than capable of handling Russia’s notoriously rough roads — even if it’s initially a front-wheel drive vehicle.
Built on Familiar Foundations, But Evolved
The Azimut is based on a heavily updated version of the Lada Vesta platform. Engineers say the SUV includes nearly 1,000 new or revised parts, including a new rear axle and a completely new body shell.
This isn’t just a facelifted sedan pretending to be an SUV — it’s a genuine step forward in both design and engineering for the Russian brand.
Inside: Simplicity Meets Tech
While the cabin is not exactly opulent, it is functional and modern. You’ll find a digital instrument cluster, a 10-inch infotainment screen with built-in navigation, and a voice assistant co-developed with local tech firms Sber and Navio.
Standard equipment includes:
- Six speakers
- Rearview camera
- Hands-free keyless entry
Optional extras include:
- Wireless charging
- Panoramic roof
- Dual-zone climate control
- Heated windshield
- Power tailgate
- 360-degree camera system
Engine Lineup: Conventional but Adequate
At launch, the Azimut will be offered exclusively with gasoline engines, and there’s no hybrid or electric variant on the horizon — not yet, at least.
Buyers can choose from:
- 1.6L (120 hp)
- 1.8L (132 hp)
- Later: 1.5L turbo (150 hp) with a conventional automatic gearbox
Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic. All models will be FWD only at launch, but AVTOVAZ has hinted that AWD versions may follow, as the Azimut is pitched as an “all-terrain concept.”
A New Chapter for Lada?
To put things in perspective, the current Niva Legend — an off-road icon — starts at just 1,059,000 rubles (around €11,700), while the more modern (but still outdated) Niva Travel costs around €14,600.
So, yes — the Azimut is almost three times more expensive than Lada’s traditional offerings. But it also seems three times more modern. In a world where Lada hasn’t released a truly new SUV in over 30 years, that might be enough.
