Next generation Chevrolet Niva compact SUV to be launched on schedule - Russia

Scheduled for 2016 launch.

According to Russian media, the country's economic downturn is not stopping GM from launching the next generation Chevrolet Niva crossover on time, despite the company halting product deliveries to the country.

Chevrolet had revealed a concept of the Niva at the 2014 Moscow Auto Show, which gave visitors a preview of the next generation model's design. It will sit on a new platform, and feature a new design that solves the dull look of the current model. The 2016 Niva will also be longer and bigger than the current model for extra cabin space, say reports.

Under the hood, the Chevrolet Niva will come with a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with “30 percent more torque” than the current model (it comes to 165.75 Nm). Chevrolet hasn't revealed the motor's horsepower figure, though various local media speculate that the Peugeot-sourced motor is good for 135 bhp. It will be paired to a 5-speed gearbox that will drive all wheels via a 4WD system with a locking differential.

Also read: Sub-4 m Chevrolet Beat sedan (codename: MCM) launching in 2017

The next generation Chevrolet Niva crossover will continue to be built at the GM-AvtoVAZ plant, and will break cover in 2016. Indian fans looking forward to a sub-4m Chevrolet crossover will have to wait till 2017, when GM is expected to launch the Adra crossover.

Competitors: Ford EcoSport, Nissan Juke, Renault Duster
Expected price: Starting from 520,000 Rubles (INR 8.8 lakhs)
Launch date in Russia: 2016

[Source: Carobka]