Kalina I vs Logan I: which is better?
Lada Kalina I (2004–2013) vs Renault Logan I (2004–2015): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Lada Kalina I
Renault Logan ISpecifications
| Lada Kalina I | Renault Logan I | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2004–2013 | 2004–2015 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.6 8V | 1.6 8V |
| Power, up to | 81 hp | 84 hp |
| Torque, up to | 125 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Gearbox | manual | manual |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 040 mm | 4 250 mm |
| Width | 1 700 mm | 1 735 mm |
| Height | 1 500 mm | 1 525 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 476 mm | 2 630 mm |
| Ground clearance | — | 155 mm |
| Fuel tank | 50 L | 50 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 13 675 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Lada Kalina I
Pros
- Local assembly: Russia
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine VAZ (1.5–1.6): timing belt failure: bends valves on some engines
- Modest power: up to 81 hp
Engine (VAZ (1.5–1.6)): timing belt snapping: bends valves on some engines; sensor and thermostat failures; valve cover leak.
Renault Logan I
Pros
- No data
Cons
- Engine Renault K4M/K7M/F4R: a snapped timing belt bends the valves
- Modest power: up to 84 hp
Engine (Renault K4M/K7M/F4R): a snapped timing belt bends the valves; ignition coil failures (K4M); oil consumption on the F4R.
Which one to choose
- Kalina I — if you care more about: torque.
- Logan I — if you care more about: power, wheelbase.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Kalina I or Logan I?
Kalina I: up to 81 hp, Logan I: up to 84 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Kalina I — about 13 675 ₸, Logan I — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.