Video - Big test drive of Lada X Rey

Lada XRAY caused controversial reviews from the very beginning. What kind of car is this: a hatchback or a city crossover? Is it Russian or a converted foreign car? One thing is clear that he immediately aroused interest in himself.

XRAY turned out to be a completely new car that has nothing to do with Vesta; it is based on the Renault platform.

In its design, XRAY carries the concept of X-design from Steve Mattin: due to the embossed deep X-shaped stampings, the wings visually look larger.

Test Drive

Before XRAY, AvtoVAZ did not make crossovers. We can safely say that the XRAY is a compact urban crossover with front-wheel drive. The car turned out to be tightly built, with a high hood and a massive rear end.

Even the basic version of the model comes with 16-inch wheels. The high ground clearance of 195 mm only emphasizes the seriousness of the model.

So outwardly the car does not leave the impression of being small. The dynamics of the exterior are added by new head optics and LED running lights.

Body

The body design of the Lada X-Ray pleases the eye with its novelty and attracts attention with the unexpected VAZ emblem, but the embossed sides of the car, effectively profiled using the X-design, suggest problems in restoring the edges if damaged.

The steel of the body elements is of high quality - it does not bend when pressed by hand, but there are complaints about the assembly - upon careful examination, the difference in the size of the gaps is noticeable.

The trunk, although small by crossover standards, is spacious enough to fit a baby stroller and a couple more medium-sized travel bags. The trunk lid opens by pressing an electric drive button protected by a rubber sheath. There is a 12 V socket in the luggage compartment on the left, making it easy to use a car compressor to inflate tires. But the raised floor, the purpose of which is uncertain, is fragile and is pressed under load, so transportation of a significant weight of cargo must be carried out without it, and it is not clear where to temporarily place it along the way.

The ground clearance of 195 mm in combination with short overhangs suits the purpose of the car, but the reason for the lack of roof rails is unknown.

Also disappointing is the access to the unlocked compartment lid with the fuel tank neck that is not controlled by the driver.

Main characteristics of the car:

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Multimedia system (MMS)

The radio also came from Renault, but it is located in a more convenient place, on top. In a foreign car, this MMC is installed much lower, which is why the viewing angle suffered.

MMS in XRei is quite functional and has a sufficient number of features for a modern car (bluetooth, iPhone support, navigation, rear view camera, etc.).

There is one drawback - the volume is adjusted not with the usual “twist”, but with the help of two buttons, which is very inconvenient.

Interior

The interior of the XRAY can be called laconic rather than budget-friendly. It is not overloaded with buttons and unnecessary elements. Even the seat heating buttons are in the blind spot and do not interfere with the eye.

You also don’t need buttons to control the media system – there is a touch screen. However, under the thumb of the right hand on the steering wheel there is a block of keys. The steering wheel is also perfectly adjustable in height, and a comfortable grip is designed for the fingers. There is no adjustment for reach, but you can adjust the driver's seat so that it is comfortable to sit.

The numbers on the dashboard are easy to read, and there is an on-board computer with a lot of necessary gadgets, including the outside temperature. The storage problem is also well resolved in the cabin - there is a drawer under the front seat, spacious pockets on the doors, and cup holders are provided on the console in the center.

There are no complaints about the assembly of the interior: the gaps are even, the structural elements do not move, there is no rattling. The finish is quite decent to the touch and visually.

The profile of the seats, as always, is not the best: the seats are flat, the cushion is short, and there is no lumbar support. Your back will get tired on long trips. A family of four can comfortably fit inside the cabin. In the rear seats, thanks to the slightly reclined seat backs, two adults and, even more so, children will be moderately comfortable. However, the third one there will be clearly superfluous.

Dashboard

On the front panel, made in a sporty style, there are three round dials. They are slightly recessed into the dashboard, which allows you to clearly see the necessary indicators at any level of lighting. The current status of the vehicle and important tips are displayed on the on-board computer display located to the right of the speedometer.

The steering column is height adjustable, providing the driver with the most comfortable position possible. And the electric power steering installed on the three-spoke steering wheel makes driving easier.

Despite all the advantages, the designers still made some mistakes that are not critical. The lack of curtains on the makeup mirrors and the small, rather inconvenient glove compartment do not greatly affect the characteristics of the Lada XRay. But the absence of an indicator showing the engine temperature can cause some inconvenience to the driver.

Trunk

To increase trunk volume, the car was even slightly lengthened. The trunk volume is not that small. In the top configuration, it is equipped with a convenient double bottom, under which you can easily hide the tool. Larger tools such as a jack can be stored in the lockable side niches.

The compartment geometry is flat, without protruding wheel arches. Hooks, lighting, and brackets for nets are carefully located around the perimeter. There's even an outlet. The ease of loading is also flawless: the threshold is low and the bumper protrudes slightly.

The problem of opening the trunk is conveniently implemented compared to previous models. The rubberized release button is located in the license plate niche and is on the folding key.

If you fold the backs of the rear seats, you get a more/less flat floor and quite a large volume, and if you roll the front seats as far forward as possible, then a short driver can even pass the night quite comfortably.

Photo of Lada XRay 2021

The exterior of the domestic crossover is quite controversial. Of course, the production model is radically different from the first concepts that attracted attention at the Moscow Motor Show back in 2012. If everything is quite harmonious in front and behind, then not everyone likes the silhouette. A rather high sill line and relatively small wheel arches on small 15-inch wheels... it doesn’t look very good. The situation is corrected by installing 17-inch wheels, but this is only available in the top-end “Exclusive” version. We look at photos of the appearance further in our gallery.

Power characteristics

The driver can choose a model with one of three engines. The most optimal is a gasoline engine with 110 horsepower. These are its passport characteristics when working with recommended 92 gasoline.

If gasoline is replaced with 95, then the engine is capable of producing 114 horses. This engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission from Renault. The car is controlled easily and smoothly. Electric power steering reduces strain on your hands.

The engine is high-torque, elastic, and pulls the car up to operating speeds without problems, even in 5th gear from idle. Acceleration dynamics are also at the level - 10.3 seconds to hundreds on 15-16 wheels.

On seventeenth wheels, acceleration will take about 11.2 seconds. Some complaints appear at high speeds, more than 120 km/h. The gears of the manual are quite short, and when the speedometer needle reaches a hundred, the tachometer pointer approaches 3,000 rpm. At highway speeds this can result in increased fuel consumption and roaring noise.

The X-ray passes through a broken section of the road absolutely calmly, without transmitting vibrations to either the steering wheel or the interior. Reactions to the steering wheel are clear and predictable. The roll is moderate, the behavior is front-wheel drive with a slight tendency for the front axle to drift when turning when overspeeding and a strict stabilization system.

The second engine is 1.8 liters. with a capacity of 122 horses. It is equipped with an automated AMT gearbox. In any rpm range, when you engage a gear and press the gas, you definitely feel a pickup. In automatic mode the car runs smoother. Gear changes are noticeable even during automatic driving, but still the car selects the most optimal options. The engine noise insulation is excellent.

AvtoVAZ is not going to install an automatic transmission; nevertheless, in this case the price of the car will rise significantly. But the driver will have to get used to the operation of AMT. This box is identical in design to the one found on Vesta and, according to the manufacturer, is trained to get used to the owner’s specific driving style, adjusting its operating algorithm to suit it.

The robot starts smooth, leisurely acceleration without problems, but in city traffic jams or during active driving, the box may begin to twitch when switching. When driving on slopes, it is better to work in manual mode. By the way, unlike Vesta, in manual mode the reduced mode is activated by moving away from you.

You can opt for the VAZ engine with 106 horsepower and a volume of 1.6 liters.

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Review of Lada XRAY Cross 2018-2019

• Body type Compact pseudo-crossover
• XRAY 2016
• Generation Ⅰ-2018
• SUV-B1 class
• Assembly Russia, Togliatti
• Platform B0+ Vesta
• Gasoline engines 1.8l. (122 hp)
• Gearbox 5 MT | 5 AT
• Acceleration 10.9c. (MT) | 12.7c. (AT)
• Front-wheel drive
• Price ≈ from $11,000

In comparison with the XRAY, the Lada XRAY Cross, in addition to the increased ground clearance, has several significant technical differences, mainly a modified front suspension, an electric steering wheel, instead of an electro-hydraulic power steering, which allows you to adjust the steering column according to reach. Comfort and safety options have been added, for the first time for Lada - a washer for selecting the operating mode of the stabilization system.

Exterior

comparison of Lada Xray and Lada Xray Cross

The design of the new XRay Cross completely copies the concept shown a year earlier. This is a continuation of the development of X-graphics. You can distinguish the Cross model from the front by the bumper, which has a silver lip at the bottom; on the side – along the black plastic linings above the wheel arches; and at the rear, along the outward-facing dual exhaust pipes and a bumper completely made of black plastic. This black plastic “skirt” now encircles the entire perimeter of the car, from the level of the license plate at the rear, runs like moldings along the bottom of the doors on the side, and ends on the front bumper under the foglights.

The XRay Cross is equipped with new 17-inch wheels, which not only complete the X-design image, but also contribute to the impressive ground clearance.

Interior

The interior of the new XRay Cross is made in the contrast of two colors, black and orange, which continues on the instrument dials.

interior of the new Lada xray cross

The steering wheel can now also be adjusted for reach, and its functionality has increased significantly due to new buttons.

The new selector washer changes the operating modes of the stabilization system. There are five of these modes: normal, sports, winter, sand and stabilization off.

Cross dashboard

The car received front seats with an improved frame. Their heating system has been upgraded to a 3-stage system, and the buttons have moved from the seat cushion to the center console.

The front passenger seat can be folded, allowing you to transport long items.

back row of Lada Xray cross photo

Rear passengers are not left out either - the sofa is now equipped with a heating system. The legroom for people sitting behind has increased by 25 mm, but due to changing the angle of the non-adjustable backrest to a more vertical one, which cannot but raise concerns for the comfort of passengers over long distances.

Platform, suspension, brakes

Lada Xray Cross 2021 is the result of mastering the Renault-Nissan B0 platform by Russian engineers. The position of the subframe has been changed, the running arm is now negative, and in place of the “Loganov” lower arms there are L-shaped arms, like Vesta’s. These modifications should reduce the level of vibrations on the steering wheel, correct slurred reaction (known features of the B0 chassis) and improve handling.

The “pseudo-crossover” has only front-wheel drive, but car representatives also promised a more energy-intensive suspension.

The track was widened by 11 mm at the front and 14 mm at the rear (to 1,503 and 1,546 mm, respectively), and ground clearance increased to 215 mm. 17-radius wheels and 215/50 M+S tires contribute to the high ground clearance.

Due to the black plastic skirt, the overall length of the car increased by 6 mm (4171 mm), and the width by 46 mm (1810 mm). The height has increased by 75 mm to 1645 mm.

Vesta Cross got rear disc brakes.

Engine and transmission

Lada Xray Cross is available only with a 1800 cm³ gasoline engine developed by AvtoVAZ. This is an inline four-cylinder engine producing 122 hp. at 6000 rpm and 170 N∙m at 3700 rpm.

But there are two gearboxes to choose from: a five-speed manual and a poorly proven five-speed robot.

Equipment Lada Xray Cross

For the Lada Xray Cross, one package is intended, which includes the following safety and comfort systems:

• adjustable steering wheel for reach and height
• Turning light system at night
• three-level heated front seats
• separate heated rear seats
• stabilization mode selector washer

• 2 airbags
• air conditioner
• ABS, EBD, EBA, ESP, ASR
• USB port for charging mobile devices
• 12 volt outlet
• turn signal repeaters in mirror housings
• electric heated side mirrors
• rain and light sensors, heated windshield
• multifunction steering wheel
• multifunctional color display
• combined eco-leather

“Lada Ride Select” provides five algorithms for the operation of stabilization systems (ESP) and traction control (ABS). The French use something similar on Peugeot SUVs.

selector washer xray cross

• ESC ON - designed to overcome difficult areas with mixed types of surface, regulates the rotation speed of each wheel individually in case of demolition of the front or rear axle
• Sport - the effect of the traction control system on the drive wheels is weakened, the sensitivity of the stability control system is reduced and the sensitivity of the accelerator pedal is increased
• “Snow, mud” - works at speeds up to 54 km/h, the threshold for slipping of the drive wheels is increased, the sensitivity of the electronic differential is increased, the anti-lock brake system increases wheel slip
• “Sand” - settings change to improve cross-country ability on loose soils (up to 54 km/h)
• ESC Off - the traction control and stability control systems are turned off, the anti-lock braking system continues to work up to 54 km/h

Options and prices

The new Cross will go on sale in November-December 2021. In terms of equipment level, one basic configuration is assumed; you can only choose between an automatic or manual transmission. The cost is still unknown, but judging by the number of modifications, the price of the new Lada Xray Cross will start at well over 700,000 rubles for the manual version.

Video XRAY Cross, interior, trunk

Other Features

Visibility in the car is excellent, helped by the huge side mirrors. Additional functions will not interfere with visibility - an electrically heated windshield, frameless windshield wipers, and even a wide-angle color rear view camera.

Onboard navigation pleasantly surprises with its speed, ease of control and detailed depiction of the landscape. Maps can be updated periodically. There is a button to turn off ESC on the center console. To deactivate the electronic assistant, you need to hold the button for about two seconds. With ESC disabled, it is more convenient to operate in off-road conditions (for example, in slushy snow on an uphill slope).

Salon

It is immediately noticeable that AvtoVAZ worked on the interior design. If we compare it with Lada Grant or Priora cars (before restyling), then the panel, steering wheel, climate control unit, door trims, seats and other parts of the interior complement each other.

The interior plastic (inexpensive and rough) is dark in color, the air ducts are painted silver to resemble metal. Steering column switches with control of lights and wipers migrated from foreign cars.

All inscriptions inside the car are in English. It seems that this is not a domestic car, but an ordinary foreign car. The massive central tunnel and armrest are seriously lacking.

The interior cannot be called spacious, so the authors of the video call this car a small hatchback. There is not much space in the rear seats. With a height of 178 cm, the knees do not rest and there is room above the head, but the back of the front seat seems to squeeze the space of the rear passengers.

The ergonomics of the cabin are excellent. Everything is in its place and there is nothing superfluous. We will talk about the minor shortcomings of each interior element below.

Options

Even in the basic version, the car is quite well equipped. The Optima configuration comes with a 106-horsepower engine with manual transmission. The Optima has 16-inch alloy wheels, stability control, and driver and passenger airbags.

The 2 rear seats have comfortable headrests. It is equipped with a security alarm, an immobilizer, engine and hood protection, an on-board computer, ERA-Glonass and a radio tape recorder. If you additionally purchase the Comfort package, the car owner will become the proud owner of air conditioning and heated front seats.

The Top package can be distinguished by the presence of foglights, electric rear door windows, electrically heated rear-view mirrors, a multimedia system with a seven-inch display and parking sensors. The optional Prestige package includes climate control, rain and light sensors and a rear view camera. For the premium package there is 75% tinting of the rear windows.

All configurations are available in versions with a 1.8 engine and with an AMT robot.

Softness and smoothness of the car

During the first test drive, any driver will be able to declare that the car’s suspension is sporty. Gas shock absorbers, transverse stabilizers and a front subframe contribute to good directional stability. When cornering, the hatchback has virtually no roll, which guarantees safety.

However, despite all the sportiness, the car’s suspension is highly smooth and soft. Working strokes are as energy-intensive as possible. At the same time, the suspension is difficult to break even in the deepest holes. Thanks to the ground clearance of 195 mm, the new model has relatively good cross-country ability. In general, several key features of the chassis can be identified:

• gas-filled shock absorbers;
• no roll when cornering;
• high driving position;
• smooth smoothing of irregularities;
• large suspension travels.

It is comfortable to drive a car not only within the city limits, but also along the highway, and if necessary, you can safely drive into rough terrain. On a regular primer, Lada Xray behaves quite predictably. Stability control systems stabilize movement even on slippery roads.

The car has all modern options in the form of ABS, ESP and ESC. However, if necessary, they can be turned off via the on-board computer, which is very convenient when overcoming difficult areas in winter. Despite much criticism of domestic cars, the suspension in the Xray turned out to be very successful and durable.

What do we know about the hatchback

LADA XRAY occupies an intermediate place between the categories of crossovers and hatchbacks. Although the car belongs to the J class, it is a full-fledged high hatchback based on the B0 platform, which has proven itself on the positive side in the domestic automotive industry.

From the factory, the car is produced in 2 main modifications with 1.6 and 1.8 liter engines . Moreover, the wheel arrangement is 4x2, which is a classic for many hatchbacks and sedans.

It is worth noting that the buyer has 3 basic configurations , which differ in the presence of an automatic transmission, body color options and several comfort functions. However, if necessary, the manufacturer is ready to provide a wide selection of options, taking into account individual installation.

lada xray review

The characteristic features of the Lada X Rey are compactness, high ground clearance and pointed body lines. The design of the model was developed taking into account the best trends in the world market.

The specialists also paid great attention to safety. The car, regardless of configuration, is equipped with airbags for the driver and front passenger. On expensive versions, side doors are also installed on all 4 doors.

The new four-door Lada xRay, with a clearly visible letter X, has improved streamlining. The rounded shape of the optics, an enlarged radiator grille, round fog lights, easy access to the trunk of the Lada X-Ray are the main characteristics of the Lada X-Ray design.

The front bumper, equipped with additional elements, improves aerodynamic performance. The significant trunk volume of the Lada x Rey (361 liters) and the enlarged fifth door caused the rear bumper to be reduced.

The taillights are teardrop-shaped. The absence of a large number of chrome parts gives the car a stylish, modern look.