The UAZ 31622 2.7 (132 Hp) is a Russian off-road vehicle produced by UAZ (Ulyanovsky Automobile Plant) between 1999 and 2005. Part of the larger UAZ 3162 family, the 31622 represented a significant modernization of the long-running UAZ-469 lineage, a vehicle originally designed for military use in the mid-20th century. While not officially exported to the United States, the UAZ 31622 and its predecessors have a notable history in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and other regions where rugged, dependable, and affordable four-wheel drive is essential. It served as a popular choice for rural transportation, agricultural work, and even as a base for specialized vehicles.
UAZ 31622: A Legacy of Ruggedness
The UAZ 31622 was intended to bridge the gap between the utilitarian UAZ-469 and more modern, comfortable vehicles. While retaining the core off-road capability of its ancestors, the 31622 offered improvements in interior space, ride quality, and overall refinement. It was positioned as a versatile vehicle capable of handling both on-road and off-road duties, appealing to a broad range of users. The 31622 was a direct evolution of the earlier 3162, incorporating a more powerful engine and subtle design changes. It remains a popular vehicle among enthusiasts for its simplicity, durability, and exceptional off-road prowess.
Engine & Performance
The UAZ 31622 2.7 is powered by a 2.7-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, producing 132 horsepower. This engine, while not particularly powerful by modern standards, provides adequate performance for its intended purpose. Torque output is rated at 223 Nm (164.48 lb.-ft.) at 4000 rpm, providing sufficient low-end grunt for tackling challenging terrain. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a five-speed manual transmission and a robust four-wheel drive system. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio is 15.5 kg/Hp, and its weight-to-torque ratio is 9.1 kg/Nm. The top speed is limited to 150 km/h (93.21 mph). The engine’s relatively simple design contributes to its reliability and ease of maintenance, crucial factors in the environments where the UAZ 31622 was commonly used.
Design & Features
The UAZ 31622 retains the classic, boxy silhouette characteristic of UAZ vehicles. It is a five-door, seven-seat off-road vehicle, offering ample space for passengers and cargo. The body-on-frame construction provides exceptional durability and torsional rigidity, essential for off-road driving. The vehicle’s high ground clearance and short overhangs contribute to its impressive off-road capability. The interior is functional and spartan, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Features such as the anti-lock braking system (ABS) were included to enhance safety, although by modern standards, the vehicle lacks many of the advanced safety features found in contemporary vehicles. The suspension system consists of a trailing arm setup at the front and leaf springs at the rear, providing a comfortable ride on and off-road. The steering system utilizes a worm-reduction unit with hydraulic power steering. The UAZ 31622 is equipped with 225/75 R16 tires mounted on 16-inch wheels.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | UAZ |
| Model | 31622 |
| Generation | 31622 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (132 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 132 Hp |
| Power per litre | 48.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 223 Nm @ 4000 rpm (164.48 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2700 cm3 (164.76 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2840 kg (6261.13 lbs.) |
| Max load | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.28 in.) |
| Width | 1828 mm (71.97 in.) |
| Height | 1948 mm (76.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Trailing arm |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Worm-reduction unit |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The UAZ 31622 2.7 represents a fascinating example of Russian automotive engineering. While not known for luxury or high performance, it earned a reputation for being a remarkably capable and durable off-road vehicle, perfectly suited to the challenging conditions of its primary markets. Its simple design and robust construction continue to make it a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and affordable four-wheel drive vehicle.
