by New patent hints at long-awaited update of the legendary off-roader
Legendary Russian off-roader Lada Niva might be getting a successor. Fresh patent images published in Russia reveal a completely new vehicle design. The modern Niva looks massive and resembles a Dacia model, which is no coincidence given the shared roots of the projects.
These images were submitted to the Federal Institute of Industrial Property of Russia (FIPS) in December 2025, but have only become public now. The off-roader’s design matches the official teaser sketch from 2021 and full-size prototypes previously seen at the AvtoVAZ plant premises.
Design details and technical features
The front of the vehicle features a darkened radiator grille and orange turn signals located on top. The main headlights with round daytime running lights are placed on either side of the grille. Compared to the original concept, the bumper has become more massive, which suits the off-roader better.
On the sides, pronounced black wheel arch extensions and sturdy roof rails are noticeable. The rear door handles have been moved to the C-pillars. The rear features a black bumper in the body color and rear taillights with LED signatures, which, although simple, give the vehicle character.
Platform and engines
The similarity to the Dacia Duster is no coincidence. The T-134 project began when Lada was still part of Renault, and development continued even after the partnership collapsed following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Like the Iskra sedan, the off-roader was initially planned to be built on a localized version of the Renault-Dacia CMF-B platform, although some sources claim it could use the older Vesta architecture. Powertrains are expected to be represented by familiar Lada engines with 1.6 and 1.8-liter displacements.
Will the new model hit the roads?
Lada’s current lineup includes the classic Niva Legend, which has remained virtually unchanged since 1977, and the more modern Niva Travel, which traces its history back to 1998 with updates in 2003, 2021, and 2025. Later this year, they will be joined by the new Lada Azimut, built on the basis of the Vesta sedan.
The new generation Niva was initially planned for 2028, but development has reportedly been frozen and restarted several times over the past few years.
Lada Niva Legend (top) and Niva Travel (bottom).
The appearance of patent images suggests the project is still alive, despite numerous stops. This could mean that AvtoVAZ is trying to complete development to update its lineup in the off-roader segment, which remains popular on the Russian market. Given the long history of delays, the exact launch date remains uncertain, but the very fact of the patents’ appearance gives hope to the brand’s fans of seeing the new Niva within the next few years.
