Russia’s answer to the Ford Bronco Raptor: Lada Niva Monster

It is currently on sale, but it is not cheap.

Lada introduced the Niva Bronto, its most powerful production off-roader, in July 2013. The Niva platform is capable of accommodating even more modifications than what the factory can install. ZUBR, a German company, has a great example of a Niva that’s been modified and is currently available for purchase. The price is not cheap, but we’ll soon get to it.

The small off-roader is called the Niva Monster. It has an upgraded suspension that sits 150mm (5.9 in) higher than the standard Niva and 235mm (9.25 in) more ground clearance. The new Ford Bronco Raptor is sure to be a match, but additional underbody protection will help ease the pressure on the trails. A snorkel and massive Hankook Dynapro-MT tires will allow you to go deep diving without any problems.

Visually, the stock version is very limited. The off-road tires require wider wheel arches, custom matte black bumpers aid in approach and departure angles and the boot lid has a spare tire mount that can hold a full-size spare. The exterior is finished with a matte green color and special paint to protect it from rust, deep scratches, and scuffs. Round LED headlights, which retain the vintage look of the car but offer better visibility, are last but not least.

Everything under the hood appears to be stock. Although it’s possible to make more power with a 1.7-liter naturally-aspirated engine, the four-cylinder unit still has its factory numbers of 82 horsepower (62 Kilowatts) & 95 pound-feet (112 Newton-meters). A permanent all-wheel drive system and a five-speed manual gearbox deliver the power to all four wheels.

The highly modified Niva is up for sale in Germany at a price of EUR44,000, or $49,000.18 at current exchange rates. It’s not cheap to buy a Niva. However, ZUBR will happily listen to your requests and create a customized Niva for you. It takes about three months to wait.