UAZ 315148 2.24 D (98 Hp)

The UAZ 315148 2.24 D is a four-wheel drive off-road vehicle produced by the Soviet/Russian manufacturer UAZ (Ulyanovsky Avtomobilny Zavod) between 2002 and 2013. It represents a significant evolution of the long-running UAZ-469 lineage, a vehicle originally designed for military use but quickly gaining popularity among civilian users due to its ruggedness and go-anywhere capability. The 315148 specifically denotes a modernized version of the 31514, incorporating a diesel engine and various improvements aimed at enhancing comfort and reliability. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the UAZ 315148 provides insight into the engineering philosophies and automotive needs of regions where robust, utilitarian vehicles are paramount.

UAZ 315148: A Legacy of Ruggedness

The UAZ 315148 occupies a unique niche in the automotive world. It wasn’t designed to compete with passenger cars in terms of refinement or fuel efficiency. Instead, it was engineered for demanding conditions – rough terrain, harsh climates, and a need for dependable transportation where paved roads are scarce. Its origins lie in the post-World War II need for a versatile, all-terrain vehicle for the Soviet military. The resulting UAZ-469, and its subsequent iterations like the 31514 and 315148, became iconic symbols of Soviet and then Russian practicality. The 315148 aimed to modernize the platform with a more efficient diesel engine and some comfort upgrades, while retaining the core characteristics that made the UAZ so popular.

Engine & Performance

The UAZ 315148 2.24 D is powered by a 2.24-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 98 horsepower (Hp) and 216 Newton-meters (159.31 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2200 rpm. The engine utilizes a precombustion chamber injection system, a common diesel technology of the era, and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to improve power output and efficiency. While the horsepower figure may seem modest by modern standards, the engine’s torque delivery provides ample low-end grunt, essential for navigating challenging off-road conditions. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a four-speed manual transmission and a robust four-wheel drive system. The vehicle has a weight-to-power ratio of 18 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 8.1 kg/Nm. The maximum speed is rated at 135 km/h (83.89 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg / 28 UK mpg / 9.9 km/l) in extra-urban driving.

Design & Features

The UAZ 315148 retains the classic, boxy silhouette of its predecessors. It’s a five-door, seven-seat off-road vehicle built on a ladder frame chassis, prioritizing durability and simplicity. The body is constructed with a focus on functionality rather than aerodynamic efficiency. The vehicle’s high ground clearance and short overhangs contribute to its exceptional off-road capability. The interior is spartan but practical, designed to withstand heavy use and easy cleaning. Features are minimal by modern standards, reflecting the vehicle’s utilitarian purpose. Safety features are also basic, typical of vehicles produced during its era. The front suspension is an independent coil spring setup, while the rear utilizes a traditional leaf spring configuration. Brakes are disc in the front and drum in the rear. The vehicle rides on 215/75 R16 tires mounted on 16-inch wheels. The fuel tank has a capacity of 78 liters (20.61 US gal / 17.16 UK gal).

Technical Specifications

The UAZ 315148, while not a vehicle commonly seen on American roads, represents a fascinating example of automotive engineering tailored to specific needs and environments. Its enduring popularity in its primary markets is a testament to its robustness, simplicity, and off-road prowess. It stands as a reminder that automotive design is often a direct response to the challenges and demands of the world around it.