The automaker UAZ from Russia is famous
for building off-roaders, especially the little 469 SUV, and the company's
latest special edition model is something that we are a little jealous that it
isn't coming to the United States. The SGR Expedition is a high-riding,
four-wheel-drive van that looks ready to haul a bunch of people into the
deepest wilderness of Siberia.
The SGR Expedition receives heavy-duty
bumpers at both ends, and a winch incorporates into the one in front. A
tubular, metal skid plate extends underneath the van to protect the vital
mechanical components when off-roading. A roof-mounted basket provides lots of
extra space for carrying gear, and there's a ladder on the back for easier
access up there. A full-sized spare wheel also mounts to the rear. The van
rides on 225/75R16 BFGoodrich all-terrain tires.
Power comes from a 2.7-liter four-cylinder
making 111 hp and 198 Nm.
To create such a blunt nose, the engine sits under a hump next to the driver.
The only available gearbox is a five-speed manual with a two-speed transfer
case. During normal driving, the SGR is rear-wheel drive, but if things get
slick, there's a part-time four-wheel-drive system. The Expedition packs a
locking rear differential and Spicer axles.
Inside, the SGR is spartan with only a
small instrument cluster at the center of the dashboard. The Expedition gains
amenities like heated front seats to keep warm when the temperatures drop in
Russia. The seat fabric is water repellant, which should also help in snowy
conditions.
Prices for the SGR Expedition start at
974,900 rubles (US$ 15,432). Buyers can select between
bright orange paint or olive drab green.
