The Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Lada Niva
(also known as the Lada 4×4 and VAZ-2121) are two of the most iconic off-road
vehicles ever and this concept, created by designer Aleksandr Isaev, brings the
two together to create the G-Niva.
Perhaps the first thing that will catch
your attention with the concept is its compact proportions. Rather than
creating an off-roader similar in size to the G-Class, Isaev instead decided to
give the G-Niva similar proportions to the regular Niva. While that means it
wouldn’t be as practical as the Mercedes, the short wheelbase would help boost
its off-road prowess.
The G-Class inspiration is particularly
apparent at the front where there is a bumper and grille similar in shape and
design to the Mercedes but with split headlights more akin to the Lada. In
addition, the G-Niva sports a hood similar to the G-Class with turn signals
jutting out from the bodywork.
A look at the sides shows that despite the
vehicle’s small frame, it does actually have four doors, although the rear
seats do rest directly above the rear axle, inevitably encroaching on the
headroom. We can also see that the G-Niva features a pair of glass panels in
place of a traditional roof that can be removed, turning the off-roader into a
T-top.
The rear of the G-Niva is perhaps our
favorite part as it is very simple and includes LED taillights as well as a
small central exhaust pipe. Inside, the off-roader is a nice mix between old
and new. For example, there is an all-digital gauge cluster and a large
infotainment screen while the vehicle has retro-looking square air vents. And
in a testament to Isaev’s extremely detailed effort, the Russian designer also
created a 360 degree panorama view of the cabin.
