Russia - Next gen Chevrolet Niva mini SUV clears initial tests

10 prototypes enter second phase of testing.

Talking to Carboka, Jeffrey Glover, CEO of the GM-AvtoVAZ JV, has revealed that the 2016 Chevrolet Niva compact SUV which was previewed by a near production concept at this year's Moscow Motor Show has cleared the initial testing phase successfully.

The Russian market-specific SUV which is due for a launch sometime next year now enters its second phase of testing and the automaker has built 10 prototypes for the purpose. According to Mr. Glover, one of those mules would be used for the crash test.

Going by the concept, the next gen Niva has nothing in common with the exiting model. The new car would be slightly longer than the outgoing model.

The revamped interior gets the familiar three-spoke Chevy steering wheel an upright centre console which houses AC controls and an infotainment system.

Under the hood lies a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine whose outputs are kept under the wraps. However, various local media reports suggest that the Peugeot-sourced motor is good for 135 bhp (100 KW). The 5-speed gearbox is from GM.

Power is distributed to all wheels via a full time 4WD system with a lockable differential. The torque output of the new motor is claimed to be 30% higher than that of the current unit.

Also read: 500,000th Chevrolet Niva rolls off the Tolyatti assembly line

The 2016 Chevrolet Niva will be manufactured at AvtoVAZ's Tolyatti plant.

[Source: Carobka]