Kalina II vs Sandero II: which is better?
Lada Kalina II (2013–2018) vs Renault Sandero II (2014–2022): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Lada Kalina IISpecifications
| Lada Kalina II | Renault Sandero II | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2013–2018 | 2014–2022 |
| Body | hatchback | hatchback |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.6 8V | 1.6 8V |
| Power, up to | 87 hp | 82 hp |
| Torque, up to | 140 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Gearbox | manual | manual |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 3 893 mm | 4 057 mm |
| Width | 1 700 mm | 1 733 mm |
| Height | 1 500 mm | 1 523 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 476 mm | 2 589 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 II
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
Engine (VAZ (1.5–1.6)): timing belt snapping: bends valves on some engines; sensor and thermostat failures; valve cover leak.
Renault Sandero II
Pros
- No data
Cons
- Engine Renault K4M/K7M/F4R: a snapped timing belt bends the valves
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 II — if you care more about: power, torque.
- Sandero II — if you care more about: 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 II or Sandero II?
Kalina II: up to 87 hp, Sandero II: up to 82 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Kalina II — about 13 675 ₸, Sandero II — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.