AvtoVAZ has begun production of the new generation Lada Vesta Sport, marking the model’s return after a production pause that began in early 2022. While the return of the sport sedan was anticipated, the real news lies in the expansion of the lineup: for the first time in the model’s history, high-performance treatment has been applied to the Station Wagon (SW) body style, creating an affordable “sport wagon” for the Eastern European market.
Developed by Lada Sport’s in-house studio, the Vesta Sport is more of a comprehensive mechanical overhaul than a simple appearance package. Under the hood, the 1.8-liter EVO engine is tuned to develop 147 horsepower, a slight increase from the 145 horsepower of the previous generation. The engine is fed by a dedicated cold air intake system and exhausts gases through a larger-diameter exhaust system, all managed by a specially developed controller designed for a sharper throttle response.
For the first time, the Vesta Sport utilizes a six-speed manual transmission, borrowed from the Vesta SW Cross, but re-indexed for improved engagement. The chassis has undergone significant transformation to handle the additional power. Standard shock absorbers and springs have been replaced with stiffer ones, and the wheelbase has been widened to improve lateral stability at high speeds during cornering.
Reflecting its performance orientation, the car sits just 158 mm (approximately 6.2 inches) off the ground – 20 mm (0.8 inches) lower than the standard sedan. An improved, high-performance braking system with larger discs and high-friction pads has been installed to combat brake fade during dynamic driving.
Visually, the Vesta Sport stands out with an aggressive aerodynamic kit, including deeper front and rear bumpers and side sills. Inside, the cabin adheres to the “Sport” brand with heavily bolstered seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a special gearshift lever. As a nod to track day enthusiasts, the onboard computer now features integrated lap timer functions and recording of distance and speed, allowing drivers to review their performance metrics directly on the dashboard.
While AvtoVAZ has not yet announced the final recommended price for either the sedan or the wagon, the new Vesta Sport is positioned as a local competitor to entry-level models like older generations of the Hyundai i30 N-Line.
The introduction of the Vesta Sport wagon represents a notable expansion of Lada’s performance offerings, catering to a growing demand for more engaging driving experiences within the Eastern European market. The combination of mechanical upgrades and sporty aesthetics aims to deliver an accessible performance vehicle for a broad range of drivers.
The Vesta Sport’s development highlights Lada Sport’s commitment to enhancing the driving dynamics of its vehicles. The focus on chassis improvements, including the lowered ride height and stiffer suspension, suggests a deliberate effort to improve handling and responsiveness. The inclusion of a lap timer and performance data recording further underscores this focus on the driving experience.
AvtoVAZ’s decision to offer the Vesta Sport in both sedan and wagon body styles broadens its appeal, catering to different lifestyle needs and preferences. The wagon variant, in particular, offers increased practicality without sacrificing the sporty character of the model. This strategic move could support Lada gain a stronger foothold in the competitive Eastern European automotive market.
As AvtoVAZ prepares to launch the Vesta Sport, potential buyers will be awaiting the official pricing announcement. The vehicle’s positioning as a competitor to models like the Hyundai i30 N-Line suggests a price point that balances performance with affordability. Further details regarding trim levels and available options are similarly expected to be released in the coming weeks.
AvtoVAZ has not yet announced a firm date for the start of sales, but the commencement of production signals an imminent market launch. Interested customers can expect further updates from AvtoVAZ regarding availability and pricing in the near future. The Vesta Sport represents a significant step forward for the Lada brand, showcasing its commitment to innovation and performance.
What’s next for the Vesta Sport? AvtoVAZ is expected to release full pricing and trim level details shortly, with deliveries anticipated to begin in the coming months. Maintain an eye on official AvtoVAZ channels for the latest updates.
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