Two models of the domestic manufacturer Kalina and Priora have already proven themselves in the CIS market. These cars are representatives of the same price segment and act as competitors to each other. Consequently, the buyer is left with the question of which is better, Kalina or Priora, because both cars can be purchased at a similar price.
When choosing, you need to study the characteristics, user reviews and compare data to give the most fair assessment.
"Lada Kalina"
"Lada-Kalina"
"Lada-Kalina"
Year after year, the choice among budget cars becomes wider and wider - your eyes wide open. But the giant of the domestic automobile industry does not intend to give up its leading position: Lada-Kalina and Lada-Priora are still in favor. Yes, AVTOVAZ is not used to pampering drivers with exquisite exterior design, a wealth of equipment and comfortable interior decoration. The Lada's main trump card is its attractive price. Formally, “Kalina” and “Priora” perform in different classes, but given the similarity of price tags, many are wondering: what is better to buy - “Kalina” or “Priora”?
"Lada Kalina"
It took the car ten years to go from sketch to assembly line. Production of Kalina started in 2004. The first Kalinas were sedans, and only two years later the model began to be produced in a hatchback version. And after this, station wagons appeared. Last spring, the sedan was discontinued and its place will be taken by the new budget car “Grant”. Nevertheless, finding a four-door Kalina at dealers now will not be difficult, because until May of this year, 60 such cars rolled off the Togliatti assembly line every hour.
"Lada Priora"
Let's sum it up
If you are a fan of a more relaxed ride and a very large trunk is not an urgent need for you, then it goes without saying that the Kalina 2 is best for you, especially if you want to feel more spacious behind the wheel.
If the size of the luggage compartment and higher speed come first for you, then without hesitation you can look at the Lada Priora. But still, everyone must decide for themselves what they like best, as they say, and not look at tests and reviews...
To understand which car is better, let's look at the technical facts in this article. Grant until 2013, or 14, was more budgetary than Priora. What is better: an outright budget car, or a car with a hint of a higher class? Everything changed with the advent of the liftback body. Lada Granta has become less budgetary, or even with a hint of good door closing! Priora, even in restyling, did not receive such improvements. When choosing a domestically produced car for yourself, several “closer” cars immediately stand out.
Until 2022, Priora was manufactured in sedan, hatchback, station wagon and coupe bodies. Granta comes in Hatchback, Liftback, sedan or Sport body styles. The Priora was not produced in a liftback body, and then you will have to figure out what kind of body it is and how it differs from a standard sedan. For comparison, we will take the Priora in sedan, hatchback and station wagon bodies and the Granta liftback - the most popular body shapes of these models among domestic car enthusiasts.
"Lada Priora"
"Lada-Priora"
"Lada-Priora"
"Priora" replaced the "ten" in 2007. As you know, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree - the “ten” bequeathed almost its entire fortune to Priora. By and large, the “ten” received a deep restyling and was given a new name. True, during the remodeling process, the heiress managed to acquire her own “capital” - she had a new engine, electric power steering, a modernized gearbox, improved sound insulation, new body parts... By the way, the Priora became the first domestic car to receive an airbag.
Total
What to choose - “Kalina” or “Priora” is rather a rhetorical question. You will not immediately notice clear advantages in favor of one or the other. But “Kalina” is still a little ahead of its relative: it is more modern and better designed.
Box
The Priora is equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox, which it inherited from the VAZ-2110, only with a gearbox drive mechanism with closed bearings. Since 2013, the car has also been equipped with a five-speed robotic automatic transmission, which was developed on the basis of a closed project for a manual transmission. It has been modified so well that it reduces consumption when traveling around the city by 1 liter per 100 km, but it also develops errors after several thousand km of driving around the city - an electronic error.
The interior of "Kalina" looks more modern than Priorov's.
The interior of "Kalina" looks more modern than Priorov's.
The interior of "Kalina" looks more modern than Priorov's.
“Kalina” looks miniature against the backdrop of “Priora”. However, in reality, the latter only wins in body length: if we compare sedans, then the Priora has this figure by 310 mm longer. But “Kalina” is 20 mm wider and 80 mm higher. True, it is not so easy to notice these differences while sitting inside the cars: the Kalina’s interior is only 36 mm wider and 55 mm higher than Prior’s.
Priora can also be purchased with a coupe body. This modification is produced in small batches, and therefore is extremely rare on the streets. This version is the most expensive: the price starts at 408,300 rubles. “Kalina” has something to answer - the “Sport” package, which is also produced in a limited edition, but is promoted at the highest level. “Sportswoman” is cheaper than “Priora” coupe: 368,100 rubles.
Comparison of power units and dynamic characteristics
I think many already know that recently, both the new 2nd generation Kalinas and Prioras began to be equipped with engines with a power of 106 horsepower, which go under the designation VAZ 21127. That is, this engine is installed on both another car.
The same applies to the old ICE 21126, which is also present on both cars. But there is one important advantage that must be given to the new product. Kalina 2 has a version with an automatic gearbox, but Priora does not yet have one.
As for maximum speed, Priora wins here a little thanks to its better body aerodynamics, but it accelerates slower with the same engine by 0.5 seconds.
“Priora” seems to want to look more serious than its colleague, but in reality it looks elderly.
“Priora” seems to want to look more serious than its colleague, but in reality it looks elderly.
“Priora” seems to want to look more serious than its colleague, but in reality it looks elderly.
But we are not interested in these versions now. It is more important to resolve the fundamental question: which is preferable - “Kalina” or “Priora”? The plant has prepared three versions for each model for customers: “Standard”, “Norma” and “Lux”. But the choice is not limited to this: within the configurations there are “sub-chapters” that differ from each other not only in equipment, but also in engines.
"Lada Kalina"
"Standard"
from 276,900 rubles
The junior configuration of the Kalina is designed according to the principle of “only the essentials”. There are electric front windows, body-coloured bumpers, an anti-theft alarm and remote central locking. This modification is equipped with a 1.6 liter 8-valve engine (81 hp). “Kalina” in the ascetic “Standard” version serves as a very clear example of the fact that a car is not a luxury, but a means of transportation.
Fuel consumption of compared cars
In conditions of endless growth in prices for fuel resources, such an indicator as consumption worries the future owner. Which is better in this regard and more economical than LADA Priora or LADA Kalina? If we do not touch upon cars that have been chip-tuned, as a result of which the factory balance between the level of fuel consumption and dynamic performance was deliberately disrupted, then in the standard version both models have approximately identical “appetites”. Priora in the city cycle will “ask” for about 7-9.6 liters, and on the highway – 6-7 liters.
Its rival in a pair, Kalina station wagon or Priora station wagon, “eats” 7-9 liters and 6-6.8 liters, respectively, in similar modes. All data is based on a 100-kilometer run. The figures are very conditional, since it is no secret that the level of fuel consumption can change dramatically with different driving styles. Calm drivers can easily meet the manufacturer’s stated figures, while road “aggressors”, for whom every overtaking is regarded as a personal challenge, can easily almost double their consumption. Let's continue the comparison.
Both cars have electric windows for all windows only in the “Lux” configuration.
Both cars have electric windows for all windows only in the “Lux” configuration.
Both cars have electric windows for all windows only in the “Lux” configuration.
"Norm"
from 281,900 rubles
The equipment is complemented by anti-lock braking and climate control systems, electric power steering and little things like a mirror in the passenger visor. The first two options are offered only for cars with a 1.4 liter engine (89 hp). This “Norma” will cost 322,900 rubles. Externally, “Kalina” in the “Norma” version differ from the “Standard” in that they have larger stamped wheels - 14 inches. This set of equipment looks more advantageous than that of a configuration one step lower, however, a few more items on the list of options would not hurt.
Content
At first glance, the question sounds like “do you want black or green tea?” On the second one, actually, too. Before the arrival of foreign engineers and managers, VAZ riveted surprisingly identical cars, even if they formally belonged to different classes.
On the secondary market, the second Kalina and the first generation restyled Priora cost almost the same - 314 and 312 thousand rubles, respectively. Offers for them are also almost at the same level - 140-155, but Priora is most often bought and sold. In May, it was checked 22,730 times through avtocod.ru, placing it in second place among all models. “Kalina” ended up in 16th place with 12,997 checks. What is better to buy on the secondary market - Priora or Kalina, let's figure it out.
“Kalina” is frightening in its simplicity.
“Kalina” is frightening in its simplicity.
“Kalina” is frightening in its simplicity.
"Lux"
from 351,100 rubles
Our choice - 351,100 rubles
The top version of the Lada-Kalina differs from the Norma in the presence of driver and front passenger airbags, a velor interior, rear seat headrests, electric drive and heated side mirrors. In addition, the “luxury” “Kalina” has such useful options as heated front seats, electric drive of all windows, remote control for raising the windows when the doors are locked, fog lights, alloy wheels and mirrors with a body painted in body color. The “Lux” package is combined only with a 98-horsepower 1.6-liter engine. Options go without saying, but a more powerful and, moreover, quite modern engine costs a lot. So the “Lux” version, although not cheap, is preferable to the others.
"Lada Priora"
"Standard"
from 318,800 rubles
Already in the basic version, the Priora is equipped with a driver’s airbag. In addition, the “Standard” has remote control of the trunk lock, front electric windows, an anti-theft alarm and central locking. Frankly speaking, not much, but compared to the Kalina, the base Priora is more attractive. But the only engine available for this version does not arouse enthusiasm and desire to purchase this particular “Priora”: official AVTOVAZ dealers sell cars in the “Standard” configuration only with an 8-valve 90-horsepower 1.6-liter engine. Then let's see what else the Russian auto giant has to offer.
In Grant you can choose:
Five-speed manual transmission (developed by AvtoVAZ, index – VAZ-2181. Equipped with a new gear selection mechanism, double-cone synchronizer for first and second gears, cable drive and reduced filling capacity); Five-speed “pure” automatic transmission (developed by Jatco based on an automatic transmission project from the 90s); Four-speed robotic automatic transmission (developed by VAZ, index – VAZ AMT 2182. Equipped with multi-cone synchronizers). You can always choose a reliable manual transmission and not be afraid of the difficulties of repairs or changing the oil in the box. But if you love comfort, then take a closer look at a car with an automatic transmission - despite the fact that the box is built on the basis of an automatic transmission from the 90s, it works very well.
"Priora"
"Priora"
"Priora"
"Norm"
from 326,300 rubles
Our choice - 367,300 rubles
“Priora” in this version is equipped exclusively with a 16-valve 98-horsepower 1.6-liter engine. In addition to the above, there is an anti-lock braking system (for some versions), velor interior, power steering, electric drive and heated exterior mirrors. The manufacturer has prepared as many as seven versions under the general name “Norma”. The price range is from 326,300 to 380,300 rubles. The most expensive “Norma” boasts, among other things, an audio system capable of playing CDs and MP3s, navigation, climate control and electric power steering. But there are simpler versions, without navigation: by throwing out the “electronic guide”, you can save 13,000 rubles. We are for rationalism: we choose a “normal” Priora without frills, but with a solid baggage in the form of useful options - for 367,300 rubles.
Summary. Whose did you take?
Kalina and Priora - a comparison allowed us to make the following summary. If image and drive are important to you, then buy a Priora. And if you are one of those who are a supporter of practicality and are looking for a car for a quiet ride and country travel, Kalina is your choice. At the same time, it cannot be denied that the modern Kalina is still one step ahead: it is better equipped and has superior build quality . Well, and, of course, the price. Whatever one may say, Kalina is cheaper.
The best prices and conditions for the purchase of new cars
The Priora, with its analog clock on the center console, evokes nostalgic feelings.
The Priora, with its analog clock on the center console, evokes nostalgic feelings.
The Priora, with its analog clock on the center console, evokes nostalgic feelings.
"Lux"
from 388,100 rubles
“Priors” in the “Lux” version are not inferior to other foreign cars in terms of equipment. There is an anti-lock braking system, seat belt pretensioners, driver and front passenger seat belt indication, parking sensors, rain sensor, climate system, heated front seats, electric windows all around, door handles painted in body color, and exterior mirrors with turn signal backups. The most expensive Priora costs 406,900 rubles. Everything here is like in adult cars - there is an audio and navigation system. Yes, the list of equipment is pleasing to the eye, but the price makes you look at the more modest Priora, the equipment of which also cannot be called poor.
Total
Of course, Kalina! At a lower price and other things being equal (these two experimental models in the trim levels we selected have engines of the same size), it has a wider list of options - here you have two airbags, power windows on all doors, and a more modern design.
Appearance
In principle, it is quite difficult to judge here, because there are no comrades according to taste and color. At the same time, most agree that Priora is a more youthful and modern option.
On the other hand, some believe that Kalina’s design is more elaborate. In general, you need to look here for yourself.
"Lada-Kalina" 351,100 rubles
“Lada-Kalina” 351,100 rubles
“Lada-Kalina” 351,100 rubles
AVTOVAZ marketers decided not to display the options in a separate list, and therefore it is not so easy to figure out how the “Norma” version for 326,300 rubles differs from the similar version for 380,300 rubles. The buyer will have to carefully study the table where the available equipment is noted.
The list of equipment that can be installed on the Priora is significantly wider than that of the Kalina. The manufacturer offers an audio system, navigation, and parking sensors—even higher-class cars won’t have to blush for such a list of options. But the total amount paid for the car will naturally be greater.
Interior capacity and ease of movement
Here. oddly enough, on the contrary, Kalina 2 wins, since despite its small appearance, there is much more space in the cabin than in the Priora. Tall drivers will especially feel this. If in Kalina you can sit quietly and nothing will get in the way, then in Priora, with a similar landing, your knees will rest against the steering wheel. Agree that such movement cannot be called comfortable and convenient.
This also applies to passengers; the Priora is a little cramped for both front and rear passengers. Therefore, in this comparison, Kalina 2 turned out to be the favorite.
"Lada-Priora" 367,300 rubles
"Lada-Priora" 367,300 rubles
"Lada-Priora" 367,300 rubles
We chose Kalina in the Lux configuration for 351,100 rubles and Priora with the Norma prefix for 367,300 rubles. “Kalina” wins the unconditional victory in this competition. Its main trump cards are generous equipment at a lower price than the Priora.
"Lada-Kalina" is our choice!
Body paintwork and metal thickness
Continuing the conversation about which is better: the Priora hatchback or the Granta liftback, we cannot fail to mention the thickness of the metal and paintwork. The thickness of the metal and the thickness of the paint and varnish coating (and the quality of its application) determine how the car will look after several years of operation. The thickness of the metal also ensures passive safety - the greater it is, the less damage from an accident.
At Granta, the paint and varnish coating is applied in 6 layers - according to the standard for the production of foreign cars, its thickness on average is 98 microns, the thickness of the metal is 0.6 mm. Priora has a paintwork thickness of 67 to 100 microns, and a metal thickness of 0.8 mm.
NEW SHIFT
AVTOVAZ has begun accepting pre-orders for the Granta, which is replacing the Kalina sedan. Now “Granta” is available for order in two versions - “Standard” and “Norma”. Later this duet will complement “Lux”. The choice of available body colors is also not wide - only five colors.
Prices for “Grant” start at 229,000 rubles , a wider list of equipment with the name “Norma” will cost 256,000 rubles. For this money, buyers can count on body-colored bumpers, stamped wheels (14 inches), doors with decorative trim, tilt-adjustable steering wheel with electric power steering, front electric windows, central locking, alarm system and on-board computer. For comparison: “Kalina” with a similar set of options and a similar engine will cost 281,900 rubles.
The top-end “Grant” will delight you with audio and navigation systems, anti-lock braking and even a stabilization system. The price of this version has not yet been determined, but they say the car is unlikely to cost much more than 300,000 rubles. AVTOVAZ also promises a heated windshield, parking sensors and side airbags.
"Lada-Kalina" vs. "Lada Priora"
Price for minimum and maximum configurations
Production of the Priora has already ended, but car dealerships continue to sell off the remaining stock. The cost of the basic configuration excluding discounts is 424,900 rubles, the maximum is 533,400 rubles. Please note that discounts can be very serious (up to 100,000 rubles), and the gift may include something useful - insurance or the necessary driver’s kit, as well as free service from the dealer for a certain period after purchase.
The cost of the minimum configuration of Grants liftback is 419,900 rubles, the maximum is 608,800 rubles. Pre-restyling versions are sold at a discount, but not as serious as that of the Priora - you can count on a discount of 80,000 rubles from at least one salon.
