You recall the Chevy Niva, yes? Its new incarnation - the Lada Niva Travel - is getting a 2025 refresh. It has got a more angular, more aggressive shape characterized by a slight revision to an octagonal grille, LED headlights, and a slightly more rugged-looking bumper. It is still a classic Lada Niva, all boxy and retro mini SUV cool, except now it feels more contemporary, tougher looking and cruising cooler but still maintaining its unrefined character. Oh, and it is still being made in Russia with that old cheap, no frills Russian way of making things.
What’s New at the Front End
Lada did not just revive the face—and you'll agree, it gave it function. That larger grille will improve airflow, which helps the engine stay cool. The LED headlights and reshaped bumper with aluminum skid-plate accents look cleaner and make it look ready for muddy tracks, and diamond-cut 17″ wheels give it a sportier presence compared to the old 16″ version. It's subtle, but these elements combine function and style in such a way that it's like giving it an armored suit and losing none of its essence.
Under the Hood: Efficient, Not Explosive
They've switched to a new 1.8-liter eight-valve engine (up from 1.7L), raising output to 89 hp (+7 hp) and torque to 151 Nm (+24 Nm), delivered low in the revs. Fuel economy is improved by 3–30%, depending on your style of driving. Translation? It won't leave you yearning for more on urban streets or on winding country roads - it's cooler, quieter, and more capable; but it won't blow your socks off in a drag race against the compact car competition of today.
Chassis & Comfort: Rugged Meets Refined
Despite its unchanged cabin, the upgrades underline a more confident ride. You’ve got a sturdier front anti-roll bar, new bearings, and ventilated front discs—all aimed at improved comfort and better handling . These aren’t glamorous luxury upgrades—they’re practical improvements that stiffen performance in real-world conditions—from gravel roads to highway runs.
Specs Table: Snapshot of the Revamp
| Feature | Lada Niva Travel (2025 Facelift) |
| Engine | 1.8 L 8‑valve I4, 89 hp, 151 Nm |
| Transmission | 5‑speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Full-time 4WD |
| Wheels | 17″ diamond-cut alloys |
| Front Styling | LED headlights, large octagonal grille |
| Chassis Upgrades | Anti-roll bar, new bearings, ventilated front discs |
| Fuel Efficiency | 3–30% improvement |
| Production Start | Q4 2025, Russia |
| Estimated Price | ₽1.3–1.6M (~$17k–$21k) |
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Lada Niva Travel face-lift is an understated update all about transparency and practicality. A new look, improved engine cooling, a little more power and a design that is suited to the modern off-road environment, all while still maintaining that rugged and basic nature. It's not luxury, and it's not supposed to be. For those who appreciate honesty, assurance and practical usefulness at a good price, this mini SUV just became a bit more interesting.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
