Lada Iskra Ice Racer Features 173 HP, Slick Looks, And Hardcore Performance
by AutoExpert | 27 January, 2025
Lada’s not wasting any time with the Iskra. Even though it’s not yet in full production, they’ve already rolled out a motorsport version aimed at ice racing.
The race version gets a serious upgrade: a more powerful engine, tougher suspension, and a whole new setup for the ice. The body kit? It’s the same as the regular version, but with new wheels and studded tires, perfect for gripping the slippery track.
Then there’s the racing livery—bold yellow, orange, red, and black graphics, plus the Lada Sport Rosneft team’s logo front and center. It's got a definite look-at-me vibe. Inside is where it gets more hardcore. Gone are the comfy seats and extras—this one’s all about performance.
A roll cage ensures safety, while an electronic control panel on the steering column maintains a functional yet streamlined design. You won’t find any unnecessary fluff here.
Now, let's talk about that engine. The engine begins as a 1.6-liter four-cylinder, but a new crankshaft boosts its capacity to 1.8 liters. With some other tweaks like reinforced rods, new intake and exhaust systems, and a fresh ECU, the engine now puts out 173 hp (175 PS) and 200 Nm of torque—way more than the road version’s 105 hp. Power goes to the front wheels through a sequential gearbox, and there’s a self-locking differential to help it hold its grip on the ice.
They've also reworked the suspension. The suspension boasts upgraded shocks, stiffer springs, and reinforced attachment points. It’s a race-ready setup with some serious durability behind it. While the front brakes are the same, the rear ones are lifted from the Vesta, and you’ve got a hydraulic handbrake to help slide around those icy corners.
It’s worth noting that while the Iskra is based on the same platform as some Renault and Nissan models, this version was done without Renault’s involvement—thanks to some recent geopolitical tensions. Lada will officially unveil the racing Iskra at the 27th Race of Champions on January 25 in Samara, Russia.
And you can bet they’ll be showing it off with more photos during the event. As for the regular version, that’s expected to hit Russian roads in the next few months.
