Russian carmaker Lada, known for producing rugged and budget-friendly cars like the famous Niva, is stepping back into the spotlight with something bold and new. The company, officially known as Avtovaz, has just unveiled its first-ever crossover SUV in almost three decades— the Lada Azimut, expected to go on sale in 2026.
While many Lada fans were hoping for a new version of the iconic Niva, they are getting something better – a five-door SUV that looks sleek, sharp, and ready to compete with more recognised names like Dacia Duster and Bigster.
The Azimut features a tough-looking front end with an upright grille, sleek LED headlights, and Lada’s signature “X” styling theme. From the side, the SUV shows off sculpted body lines, bold 18-inch alloy wheels, and two-tone paint that gives it a stylish edge. Around the back, a full-width LED strip runs between the taillights, with metallic detailing on the bumper that adds a rugged finish.
Inside, the Azimut leans more toward practicality than luxury. The dashboard layout is simple, with a digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch touchscreen that handles navigation and media controls.
Lada worked with local tech companies to develop the car’s software, which includes a built-in virtual assistant. Basic features like a rear-view camera, keyless entry, and a six-speaker sound system come standard. Higher trims will offer extras like wireless phone charging, a panoramic roof, dual-zone climate control, and even a 360-degree camera system. The cabin also features multiple storage compartments and a rotary dial for selecting terrain modes, suggesting that the SUV is built with rough roads in mind.
Under the hood, the Azimut will launch with traditional petrol engines. Buyers can choose between a 1.6-liter engine producing 120 horsepower, a slightly more powerful 1.8-liter engine with 132 horsepower, or a 150-horsepower turbocharged engine, which is expected to arrive later. Transmission options will include a six-speed manual, a CVT, and eventually an automatic for the turbo version. No hybrid or electric versions are planned at this time.
The Azimut sits on a revised version of Lada’s Vesta platform, which was originally introduced in 2015 and updated in 2022. This platform has been upgraded with a new rear suspension system and offers an impressive 208 mm (8.2 inches) of ground clearance, higher than many crossovers in its class. Lada says the development of the Azimut took about three years and involved over 1,000 new or modified parts.
The Azimut will be built at Lada’s Togliatti factory, one of the largest automotive plants in Russia. Pricing is expected to start between 2.5 and 3 million rubles, which is roughly $31,900 to $38,300. This makes the Azimut the most expensive vehicle in Lada’s lineup, a clear sign that the company is aiming higher with this release.
With its modern styling, roomy interior, and more premium features, the Lada Azimut represents a big step forward for the brand. It may not have the international fame of other SUVs, but it shows that Lada is ready to evolve and appeal to a new generation of drivers.
