In the context of the impending crisis, it is worth considering two eternal rivals in the category of up to a million rubles – LADA Vesta and the updated Hyundai Solaris.
“Solaris” and “Vesta” are a rare example of rivalry, in which the difference in the price of cars is a maximum of 10,000 rubles in average trim levels. For 946,900 rubles, LADA Vesta comes with a CVT, while Hyundai Solaris in the Comfort configuration with an “automatic” costs 956,000 rubles.
Oddly enough, a VAZ engine is installed on the Vesta with a variator, but a Nissan-Renosh engine, known to the Russian motorist for such models as Renault Kaptur and Duster. The 1.6-liter engine has 113 horsepower. Of its features, it is worth noting only the lack of a hydraulic compensator, which means that over time you will have to adjust the valve clearance, otherwise the motor has no problems with reliability. The CVT for Vesta is also borrowed from the Capture – this is a Japanese Jatco box.
The Korean motor also has a volume of 1.6 liters and does not have a hydraulic compensator, but it delivers 123 horsepower. On it, however, it is possible not to adjust the valve clearance up to 250,000 km. Restyling solved the problem of catalysts, and there were no other significant “sores” in the engine. A classic 6-speed problem-free “automatic machine” works in tandem with the engine.
Still, for the same price of equipment, Vesta gives more than Solaris: automatic folding of mirrors, protection of the bottom from the factory, disc rather than drum brakes at the rear. Another bonus is a rear view camera and a trunk spoiler. Inside the Vesta are seats with combined upholstery, an armrest, front airbags and light and rain sensors. In Solaris, for 956,000 rubles, none of this exists. But there are Apple Car Play and Android Auto systems, a color screen of the on-board computer and a tire pressure sensor.
That “Vesta”, that “Solaris” showed a good level of safety on Euro NCAP tests. There is less space on the rear seats of the Korean than in the Lada. On the driver’s seat, Vesta pleases with lateral support of the seats, the width of the side mirrors, but the impression is spoiled by thick front struts. In Solaris, the quality of the finish is much better than that of a competitor.
Both cars show pleasant dynamics and taxiing, but the “West” suspension is a little more durable than on a Korean. Despite this, in this confrontation, the winner is LADA Vesta, since for its price, although with flaws in quality, the Togliatti car gives more than the Korean one.
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