UAZ “Bukhanka” in its current form will soon celebrate its 60th anniversary. During this time, the Soviet and subsequently Russian model has remained virtually unchanged. All improvements that Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant introduced into the “Loaf”, are point and inconspicuous in nature. Even the engine that is installed on the minivan is by now both morally and technically obsolete.
All this suggests that UAZ needs to carry out a large-scale modernization in the near future. “Loaves”. However, representatives of the Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant some time ago stated that they were completely satisfied with the current demand for a car. But despite the above, the company will not succeed in avoiding the global processing of the minivan. The fact is that the Ministry of Industry and Trade intends to tighten the requirements for cars that are allowed for government orders. And state tenders account for a large share of Loaf sales. That is, if the authorities really introduce new requirements, then the minivan sales volumes will drop sharply. Moreover, it will call into question the feasibility of producing a car.
At the same time, the “Loaf” in the current version has a number of characteristics that cannot be found in any, even expensive analogue. In particular, the minivan demonstrates excellent cross-country ability, comparable to SUVs. Therefore, the preservation of “Loaf” will require the Russian market.
All of the above once once more confirms the need for urgent modernization of the car. While the UAZ company is looking for partners who might improve its financial situation, the domestic designer has published a series of renders depicting the new generation UAZ Loaf 2022-2023. According to the developer, the future Russian model will visually resemble Volkswagen T.6 Multivan.
The choice in favor of this design is probably due to several reasons. Firstly, such a body is distinguished by a practical and attractive design. Secondly, the absence of complex shapes simplifies both the design and production of parts. Thirdly, it is easier for engineers to choose a platform for a similar body configuration.
As for the technical part, it still raises questions. A more likely option is to save the current “atmospheric” motor. But its design needs to be improved.
Design
As noted earlier, when developing the new UAZ-452 2022-2023, the domestic designer preferred a practical style that is easy to implement in a production car. Especially the presented version of the minivan, judging by sales Volkswagen Multivan should become popular with buyers. But such a large-scale modernization will lead to a noticeable rise in the cost of the Russian model.
One of the important features of “Loaf” was transferred to its new version. The presented minivan has a really high ground clearance. This indirectly indicates that the updated “Loaf” will retain its off-road capabilities. However, the interior of the Russian model will be more voluminous. This is indicated by an elongated body shape and a sheer stern. But, despite the growth in size, the future “Loaf” will remain 3-row.
Among the non-standard solutions implemented in the presented minivan, one can note a compact windshield, which reduces the viewing area from the driver’s seat. This feature, combined with other solutions, suggests that the new “Loaf” will become more modern. In particular, she should get front and rear parking sensors. Otherwise, parking on such a high car with a limited viewing angle will be extremely difficult.
The fact that the new “Loaf” will become a modern minivan is indicated by large head optics, the bottom of which is emphasized by the DRL LED strip. Inside the front lights, the developer placed round lamps. Between them, the presented novelty has a wide radiator grille of complex shape, most of which is covered by horizontal slats.
The front bumper is no less unusual. Its edges rise up, forming a kind of ledge, which, as it were, supports the head optics. Below in this area, niches are provided for additional LED lights, which probably serve as fog lights. In the center of the front bumper, a thin strip of air intake with a fine mesh is provided, which in this case rather plays a decorative role. At the bottom of the front bumper, the developer laid a plastic lining, which is designed to decorate the body.
On the side, the UAZ Loaf 2022-2023 presented is even more similar to the Volkswagen Multivan. However, many minivans of the last decade were made in a similar form factor. One of the main innovations implemented in the presented model is the appearance of a side sliding door.
The sheer feed at the “Loaf” is complemented by wide glazing. Large rear optics, possibly also complemented by LEDs. An interesting decision is to place a noticeable ledge under the stern lights. He, like the front bumper, seems to support them.
Specifications
It is too early to talk regarding what engines the new Loaf can get. A more likely option is to install the current 2.7-liter “atmospheric” engine on a similar minivan, which will be finalized. Thanks to this, its power will increase to 150 hp. The new “Loaf” will retain a 5-speed “mechanics”, which is combined with permanent all-wheel drive. It is possible that UAZ will equip the future minivan with a 6-speed “automatic”, which is currently installed on The Patriot.
The engine range of the new UAZ-452 2022-2023 may be expanded with another power unit. Its type will become known following the UAZ company completes the search for investors. Perhaps assistance in the development of “Loaf” will be Isuzuwhich has several reliable turbodiesel units.
Time to market
The UAZ company has not yet made statements regarding the fact that it is developing a new version of the Loaf. If this minivan gets further development, then its modernization will take place no earlier than in 2-3 years.
