Test drive of Lada Vesta with a CVT: all the pros and cons

November 13, 2019 Lada.Online 29 575 6

In the fall, AVTOVAZ presented the updated Lada Vesta. Now this family is equipped with a Renault-Nissan alliance engine (1.6 l, 113 hp) and a continuously variable automatic transmission JF015E (hereinafter referred to as “variator” or CVT). We managed to find out how the car turned out during the test drive.

Vesta AT review

Since the new AvtoVAZ model went on sale, many potential buyers have test driven the 2022 Lada Vesta with a variator in car dealerships. Earlier, in the summer of 2022, a new automatic transmission was installed on the XRAY Cross, and even then the first videos of test drives of models with a CVT appeared on YouTube.

Externally, there are no differences between the manual Lada and the AT version. The body dimensions remain the same. The CVT transmission is larger in height than the manual transmission, but this did not affect the ground clearance, it remained the same - 178 mm, in the SV Cross version - 203 mm. Starting with the basic configuration, all models are equipped with protection that reduces the ground clearance by 3 cm.

A new automatic transmission is installed on the Lada Vesta along with a Japanese 1.6 liter engine. The power unit, which was developed by the Nissan concern, is produced at AvtoVAZ and has the factory designation H4M. Power 113 l/s with torque 156 rpm.

"Lada Vesta" automatic. Photo source: https://express-lada.ru/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/vesta-04-1.jpg

The model with the new engine, according to the manufacturers, should reach a speed of 100 km/h in 12 seconds. The declared average fuel consumption is 7.5 liters. A test drive of a Vesta with a CVT refutes the promises of AvtoVAZ. In practice, acceleration is 13.5 seconds, fuel consumption is 2.5 liters more.

When AvtoVAZ models received a variator

For the first time, a CVT transmission was installed on the X-RAY Cross. The updated crossover began to be sold at AvtoVAZ dealers in the summer of 2022. The Lada Vesta CVT model became available in November 2019. From that moment on, it became possible to purchase a Vesta SW Cross with a CVT.

"Vesta" with a variator. Photo source: https://xn--80aal0a.xn--80asehdb/auto-news/lada-vesta-news/5183-kakie-obnovlenija-poluchila-lada-vesta-s-variatorom.html

The AvtoVAZ model has become a worthy competitor to foreign cars. The improved transmission brought Vesta to the top of sales among domestic cars in the 1st quarter of 2022. A restyling is planned this year, which will bring many improvements in the appearance and interior of the car.

CVT in Vesta AT

Jatco, part of the Nissan group, developed a new CVT in 2010 for cars with an engine capacity of up to 1.8 liters. The transmission received the full name Jatco JF015E. Over 10 years, more than 10 million boxes were produced.

On the Russian market, Jatco JF015E is installed on cars produced by Nissan, Mitsubishi. Popular models among car enthusiasts are “Captur”, “Arcana”, “Logan”, “Sandero”, which have proven themselves well on domestic roads.

Development engineers improved the transmission before installing it on AvtoVAZ models. Vesta is equipped with the Jatko JF015E variator in all trim levels, excluding the basic one. Unlike competitors' models, when choosing a CVT, the buyer does not need to pay extra for additional options.

Main technical characteristics - Technical problems

To install the rear wheels, the plant used a semi-independent torsion beam equipped with shock absorbers and coil springs with nonlinear stiffness. The introduction into the manufacturing process of internal combustion engine components of a complex of technological operations, including increasing the class of mechanical surface treatment, and the use of structural materials made it possible to increase the efficiency of the unit by reducing the friction of the working surfaces in the connecting rod and piston group.

Jatco JF015E

The Jatco JF015E continuously variable variator is a continuation of the Jatco JF011E model, installed on cars with a large engine capacity. At its core, the new box resembles an automatic transmission with two gears.

Transmission modification

A pusher type belt transmits torque to cone pulleys. The magnitude of the value changes depending on the approach of the pulleys or separation.

Salon "Lada Vesta". Photo source: https://wroom.ru/index.php?id=carpic&n=61822

The updated transmission received a two-stage planetary gear, thanks to which the size of the cones was reduced. The weight and dimensions of the box have become smaller. Regulator solenoids began to be used in the valve body.

Reliability and resource

The dimensions and weight of the JF015E, compared to its predecessor JF011E, have been reduced due to the use of a planetary gear. However, the improved box has become less reliable. The main disadvantage is sensitivity to increased loads and oil contamination.

The declared transmission resource is 120 thousand kilometers. In practice, failure of the box occurs before the deadline. The variator is sensitive to overloads. Aggressive driving - quick starts, slipping, sharp braking - significantly reduces the service life of the JF015E.

Pros of the updated transmission

A test drive of the Lada Vesta SV Cross with a CVT and Vesta AT showed the dynamic advantages of the CVT transmission:

• smooth start of movement in creeping mode without using the gas pedal;
• no jerking when accelerating;
• forward and reverse gears began to shift clearly, promptly and smoothly;
• The uphill movement is smooth, without switching delays.

The cooling of the box has been improved; this system has been integrated into a common large circuit. Transmission oil moves more easily, especially at low temperatures, which reduces the load on transmission components.

There are also advantages to repairing and servicing the box:

• low price of spare parts;
• possibility of installing non-original elements;
• A variator of this type has been well studied in car repair shops over the years of operation.

"Lada Vesta" blue. Photo source: https://vistanews.ru/uploads/posts/2020-03/1584522778_lada_vesta-1.jpg

It is possible to use spare parts from vehicles that are unsuitable for use.

Minuses

Along with the positive aspects of the transmission, the disadvantages when using a CVT gearbox are indicated:

• sensitivity to overloads, reduced service life;
• increased requirements for the quality of gear oil;
• frequent breakdowns of box components.

It is noted that, according to the instructions, cars with a CVT are prohibited from being towed for the purpose of starting the engine.

Which Lada Vesta to choose - with manual transmission or CVT

The Lada Vesta sedan, popular in Russia, can be purchased on the market in various modifications. One is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, the second with a CVT. This expands the choice of buyers and allows them to select equipment to suit their needs. Motorists are ambivalent about choosing the Lada Vesta configuration. However, experts have their own opinion on this matter. Let's consider which version to prefer and what you can get for your investment.

With a manual transmission, the Lada Vesta is not as powerful. Under the hood there is a 1.6-liter power unit with a power of 106 hp

It’s worth starting with the fact that the transmission should be chosen according to your own needs. Some prefer to drive a vehicle with a manual transmission, while others find it more convenient to use a CVT, as it frees them from the need to constantly maneuver with their hands and be distracted by changing gears. If you prefer a vigorous movement, then a manual is a good choice.

With a manual transmission, the Lada Vesta is not as powerful. Under the hood there is a 1.6-liter power unit with a power of 106 hp. In the modification, which is equipped with a CVT, the engine can develop 113 hp. However, an engine with a manual transmission has an undeniable advantage - you can rev it without fear, start with a slip, and even drive along a toll highway at high speed. Of course, all this can be done within the framework of the Traffic Rules.

In the top-end Luxe Enjoy Pro equipment, the car is valued at 927,900 rubles. Let us remind you that this equipment is distinguished by the presence of an advanced multimedia system from Yandex

A CVT in a car cannot give the same drive while driving that you experience when switching a manual transmission. However, in this version the car automatically becomes more comfortable and soft, which is an undeniable advantage in the city. Therefore, CVT equipment is suitable for people with a calmer character. This gearbox does not tolerate slipping, grinding and attempts to climb onto the curb.

All this negatively affects the transmission life. The CVT does not tolerate long trips at high speed. This is the most terrible test for the mechanism. If you operate a car with CVT in this mode, the working fluid in the transmission will overheat. In this case, the risk of killing the gearbox increases several times.

Now it’s time to figure out the price tags. Lada Vesta in the basic Classic version equipped with a manual transmission costs 743,900 rubles. The Comfort package is offered at dealers for 804,900 rubles. If you look at the version with a CVT, you will have to pay 899,900 rubles.

A CVT in urban environments is much more comfortable to maintain and use

In the top-end Luxe Enjoy Pro equipment, the car is valued at 927,900 rubles. Let us remind you that this configuration is distinguished by the presence of an advanced multimedia system from Yandex. A sedan with a CVT in a top-end configuration is offered from dealers at a price starting from 1,022,900 rubles. You only need to pay an additional 95,000 rubles for the engine and variator if you live in the city and spend a long time in traffic jams.

Problems during operation of Jatco JF015E

AvtoVAZ engineers have improved the box installed on the Vesta. However, problems arise when operating the variator.

Oil quality

The variator is demanding on the quality of the oil. If the ATF fluid in the box is contaminated, malfunctions may occur. The previous generation JF011E has a lubricant class of NS-2, JF015E is recommended to be filled with NS-3 grade.

The valve body of the variator is most susceptible to malfunctions associated with oil contamination. The manufacturer states that transmission fluid is filled for the entire service life of the box. However, service centers recommend checking the quality of the ATF material during each maintenance. An incomplete replacement should be carried out after a mileage of 60 thousand kilometers.

Taper bearings

Bearings mounted on the drive or driven shaft are subject to premature wear. A symptom of this malfunction is the appearance of a hum in the box. In the new model, these parts themselves have become of higher quality, but their service life remains the same.

Sun gear

This element is responsible for switching forward or reverse. The gear is welded from two parts; under increased loads, the seam may fail, which leads to transmission malfunction. Symptoms: When the handle is switched to the reverse position, the car does not move or does not move forward when position D is set.

Pump in the variator

The variator is equipped with an oil pump. When the lubricant is contaminated, the valve hangs. The pressure decreases, and the driver feels shocks and dips in traction while driving.

Lada Vesta with automatic transmission, robot or mechanics? Specifications

Cylinder block • They want to install this engine on the model.

CVT control

A test drive of a 2022 Lada Vesta with a CVT shows that driving the car is no different from other brands with a similar gearbox. The transmission operates in two lines indicated on the handle:

1. From parking position P, shift to neutral N, then to D forward or R reverse.
2. While driving, you can switch from position D to manual control M, including “+” upshift or “–” downshift.

The engine starts when position P is set. When you start moving, without holding your foot on the gas pedal, the gear knob is released from the lock with a button and moved to position D or R, depending on the selected direction. The car begins to move in creeping mode.

When driving, you can switch to manual control, including a lower or higher gear. It is strictly forbidden to move the control handle to P in position D. This action can lead to damage to the box.

When stopping briefly at a traffic light or when there is a traffic jam on the road, there is no need to move the shift lever to position P or N. It is enough to keep your foot on the brake pedal.

The operating instructions impose additional requirements when using a CVT gearbox in a car:

• Slips, quick starts and sharp braking are not recommended;
• It is prohibited to tow the vehicle to start the engine;
• additional loads in the form of a trailer are allowed after running-in - reaching 2 thousand km.

It is prohibited to tow a vehicle on a flexible or rigid hitch. Emergency travel is only permitted using a tow truck.

Problems of automatic transmission for the Russian new product Technical characteristics

• a creeping mode has appeared, in which the car starts moving without using the gas pedal;
• speed is gained without jerks or dips in traction;
• clear switching of forward and backward driving modes.

Test drive "Vesta AT"

The network contains a video of a test drive of a Lada Vesta with a CVT, reviews of car enthusiasts and experts, by which one can judge the driving performance of the updated AvtoVAZ model.

Movement on a variator

The ride is smooth when starting to move, the car picks up speed without jerking. Compared with the AMT transmission, the dynamic qualities of the model have improved. Dips in traction and retardation when choosing modes disappeared, the car received additional energy.

City traffic

Experts and car enthusiasts are unanimous in the opinion that the main purpose of Vesta is city travel. An engine of 113 horsepower is quite enough for acceleration within the streets of populated areas.

Review of Lada Vesta, automatic. Photo source: https://www.zr.ru/cars/vaz/media/?p=1

The CVT provides comfort when driving in traffic jams and congestion. Reduced noise and vibration.

Traffic outside the city

stated that the car will be able to accelerate to 100 km in 12.2 seconds. This figure was not achieved on the test drive. When accelerating, you need to press hard on the gas pedal, but the variator is set to a leisurely ride. When pressed incompletely, the transmission automatically reduces the rpm to 2000.

When overtaking on the highway, the car lacks dynamics. The driver needs to monitor oncoming traffic and choose the safest areas that do not require the maximum speed to change lanes.

The CVT Vesta overcomes unpaved roads without any problems. A peculiarity was noticed when driving on uneven surfaces. It is better not to stop when entering an incline. The variator can open the clutch, and you won’t be able to move; you’ll have to roll back and accelerate over the obstacle.

The developers assure that short slips in the mud will not create maximum loads on the variator; they will be reduced by a two-stage planetary gear. However, the car's operating instructions require that such situations be avoided.

Ways to save fuel

The continuously variable transmission of the Japanese brand Jatco is widely used on cars of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and from July 2022 it is offered to customers on the LADA XRAY Cross. The main feature of the automatic transmission is that, in addition to a V-belt drive with a powerful steel belt, there is a two-stage gear sector. This solution made it possible to make the unit more compact and 13% lighter than previous models. This design increases traction characteristics and at the same time is not afraid of frost, slipping and heavy loads, and, in addition, with confident acceleration it provides high acoustic comfort and fuel efficiency.