Surely each of us has heard about the Gazelle car. Many people are familiar with this car. But the Gazelle is far from the only car in the line of the Gorky Automobile Plant. Its “younger” all-wheel drive brother, the Sobol Barguzin 4X4, deserves no less attention. This car was built on the basis of a regular Gazelle minibus. So, engineers shortened its base, removed the rear twin wheels and installed all-wheel drive with a transfer transmission. The new passenger “Barguzin 4X4” has become quite widespread among off-road enthusiasts.
Appearance
The design of this car is no different from the Gazelle, with the exception of the wheels. 16-inch alloy wheels are installed here as standard. You can also notice that there is no double tire at the rear. The roof on the Sobol is lower than on minibuses.
Among the shortcomings, the owners note the low and fragile front bumper, which is installed from the GAZelle Business. It is not at all suitable for off-road use. Often he catches bushes and other obstacles using this minivan off-road. Therefore, many who professionally prepare cars for off-road use remove this bumper and install a more powerful one. It looks like this:
With such a bumper, it’s not scary to drive through the bushes and cross fords. In addition, there is protection for the radiator - it is not so easy to damage it.
Interior of all-wheel drive "Barguzin"
Inside, the car has the same panel as the GAZelle Next. The steering wheel is no different either. It is four-spoke, with a basic set of buttons. The steering column can also be adjusted in height. The instrument panel is a pointer type, with a digital odometer and an on-board computer. On the center console there is a CD radio and a heater control unit. It is also worth saying that in the luxury configuration, the Barguzin 4X4 is equipped with an autonomous Webasto heater. The cabin has standard acoustics. Speakers are built into the door cards. The seats are leatherette, with mechanical adjustment. In the center is the gearshift lever, as well as the transfer case control.
As the owners note in reviews, the Barguzin 4X4 has a spacious interior, despite the low roof. There is enough space both in width and height. However, the ergonomics are not fully thought out. So, the driver has to look for a place to place his left foot after releasing the clutch. There is no usual platform for resting your feet here. By the way, the same problem exists on GAZelle cargo vehicles.
As for sound insulation, it is average here. The plastic doesn’t really rattle, but the sounds of the engine can be heard into the cabin. And the higher the speed, the worse the acoustic comfort.
Riviera version
It’s worth talking about it separately. The Riviera salon includes two rows of convertible seats designed for six people. There is also a folding table. The peculiarity of these chairs is that they can be transformed into a full-size bed. The reader can see what it actually looks like in the photo below.
These seats can be moved to any distance (forward and backward, as well as adjust the angle of the backrests). True, there are no electrical adjustments here. Everything has to be done manually.
Specifications
The line of power units includes two motors. Among them there is a domestic unit “Evotek” with a capacity of 2.7 liters. This is a four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine with 107 horsepower. This unit develops 221 Nm of torque at 2.35 thousand rpm. According to the manufacturer, the resource of this engine ranges from 400 to 600 thousand kilometers. But this motor is not economical. So, for 100 kilometers of travel, the GAZ “Barguzin 4X4” spends at least 14 liters of fuel.
The line also includes a Cummins turbodiesel engine. The same engine was installed on the GAZelle trucks of the Next and Business series. With a volume of 2.8 liters, this engine develops 120 horsepower. As noted in the reviews, this engine has good traction and the car accelerates well with it. Fuel consumption is also good - no more than 12 liters per 100 kilometers.
As for the transmission, its design has not changed since the days of the first GAZelles. This is still a five-speed manual, which is complemented by a two-speed transfer case. The latter is controlled from the cabin.
Disadvantages and advantages
The quality of the factory assembly of the GAZ-2217 Barguzin is at an average level. There are cases when parts are poorly screwed on, bolts are missing, etc.
The first significant “sores” make themselves felt 4-5 years after the start of operation and are hidden in the gearbox and transfer case, front axle and power steering hose. They appear after the first 40-50 thousand kilometers and occur in different orders. The first comprehensive diagnostics are recommended to be carried out after 90-100 thousand kilometers.
The layout of the machine is simple, so there are no special problems with repairs. Spare parts can be easily found in specialized stores. It is necessary to clearly know the catalog numbers of the parts, since they differ in size in different years of production. The large windshield provides good visibility to the driver.
The main advantage of the GAZ-2217 car, which is why it is in demand, is its quick commercial payback. If you use the car as a minibus, you can earn the cost in 100 thousand kilometers. When the mileage reaches 200 thousand, experienced owners recommend selling the equipment if it is still in working condition. By this point, there are no “original” parts left in its design, except for the frame, body, engine and power steering (in rare cases).
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Chassis
At the front there is a spring dependent suspension with a drive axle. The rear one is built on the same principle. Also used here are telescopic shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. The steering is geared and supplemented with hydraulic booster. Brakes – hydraulic, with a vacuum booster. Disc mechanisms are installed at the front, drums at the rear. Also, “Barguzin 4X4” is standardly equipped with an ABS system. As stated in the reviews, it works really well. When braking on ice, the car maintains its trajectory.
"Barguzin 4X4" off-road
Off-road is his element. This is where the full potential of the car is revealed. What’s surprising is that it can create serious competition for already prepared SUVs. After all, the car has “honest” all-wheel drive, with a rear electronic differential lock and high ground clearance. These qualities allow Sobol to compete well off-road. The car moves confidently on steep slopes and climbs any hill without any problems. And it doesn’t matter what kind of surface it is – sand, snow or mud. By engaging the lock and low gear, you can easily pass all these obstacles.
Sable 4 x 4: reviews
Most of the drivers of the new Sobol call it a car for work. Rugged, all-wheel drive and reliable, it drives confidently off-road and gets you out of muddy roads that no other car could get out of. In reviews of the GAZ “Sobol 4 x 4” it is constantly compared with the UAZ “Loaf”, which until recently was considered the best and only car capable of delivering travelers to almost any point in Russia. But the model we are considering confidently outperforms the best-selling model of its competitors. Reviews of the 2016 Sobol 4 x 4 confirm that this car has many advantages. Cheap, unpretentious, it can perform equally well as a family car, a work car or a vehicle for transporting people.
The rear axle differential lock allows you to reach previously inaccessible places. Although the car is much shorter than a regular Gazelle, the space in it is used wisely. A lot of things or cargo can fit in the body. In some Sobol models, the passenger compartment is separated from the cargo compartment by a solid partition, which has a positive effect on the comfort and safety of people. Among the many options for configurations, any motorist will choose the one that best suits his goals and objectives. “Sobol” was made for Russian roads and is quite comfortable inside. Of course, it is far from expensive foreign cars, but it is not worth comparing it with “Loaf”. To summarize, we can say that this is an excellent car for Russia, a good option for business - quite reliable and cheap.
Let's sum it up
So, we found out what the all-wheel drive Barguzin 4X4 is. Among the strengths are:
- the presence of all-wheel drive and locks already in the basic configuration;
- spacious and comfortable interior;
- high ground clearance;
Among the disadvantages are high fuel consumption and a low bumper, which will have to be replaced with a power one if the car is being prepared for off-road use.
Overall, this car is an excellent choice for those who want a roomy minivan that is also capable of off-road capability. The car is already well equipped from the factory and is an excellent alternative to Ulyanovsk-made cars. Drivers will definitely like the new Barguzin 4X4.
New product from a domestic manufacturer
Reviews of the Sobol 4 x 4 indicate that the manufacturers of this vehicle managed the impossible: to combine large load capacity, excellent cross-country ability and spaciousness in one vehicle. According to many buyers, this model is one of the most successful and has a fairly comfortable interior that can easily accommodate from 6 to 13 people. The two rear rows of seats and the spacious trunk offer surprising spaciousness for such a fundamentally compact car.
In terms of dimensions, the Sobol is more like a passenger car. You can drive it under bridges and in the city center. But on the roads, sitting in a comfortable cabin, the difference with a regular SUV is immediately noticeable. The high lift lifts the car above the traffic and provides better visibility. In addition, according to its characteristics, the Sobol has the best cross-country ability in its class, and this is a very serious statement. What other characteristics does the new GAZ car have?
Modifications of GAZ 2217
There have been quite a lot of modifications of the Barguzin throughout its production. It should be noted that the minivan has undergone deep restyling twice. The first generation of 2217 cars was produced from 1998 to 2003. Then the second series of “Sable” began, which was produced until 2010. Unlike the previous model, it has the following changes:
- Rectangular headlights were replaced with teardrop-shaped headlights;
- The shape of the hood has changed;
- An improved instrument panel appeared in the cabin;
- The range of engines installed on the vehicle has significantly expanded.
Results
What goals do people pursue when buying a new Sobol 4 x 4 car? Most often it is taken for use for commercial purposes or as a personal car for those who live in hard-to-reach places. The model is good for both. Reviews of the new “Sable 4 x 4” 2016 only prove this. The business model is spacious and does not require large maintenance costs. The manufacturer gives an approximate cost per 100 km for repairs and necessary work: 10 rubles. Agree, this is a low price for such a functional car. As for the passenger version of the Sobol, it is pleased with its spaciousness and sufficient comfort. For a family, such a car will be an ideal means of transportation.
Technical characteristics of GAZ 2217 1998-2003.
The first issue 2217 ran from 1998 to 2003. The minibus was produced in a 10-seater version mainly for minibuses and had a simpler configuration. The six-seater minivan has already acquired a richer finish - it is considered a commercial vehicle.
The minivan's interior is equipped with a folding table, and the middle row seats are located so that the occupants can communicate with each other. The seats are soft and comfortable - passengers should feel comfortable on long trips.
The only inconvenient thing is that the seats are rigidly tied to their places, and it is not possible to rearrange them at your discretion in the cabin.
"Sobol Barguzin" from the first releases could be either rear-wheel drive or with a 4x4 wheel arrangement. In the all-wheel drive version, the front axle is constantly engaged, the axles are driven through cardan shafts. Due to its sufficient comfort, “Barguzin” is often used for family trips outside the city to nature.
GAZ 2217 (1998-2003) has the following technical characteristics:
- Dimensions (length/width/height) – 4.81/2.03/2.1 m;
- The distance between the wheel axles (wheelbase) is 2.76 m;
- Rear wheel track – 1.7 m;
- Front wheel track – 1.69 m;
- Load capacity – from 0.64 to 0.91 tons;
- Gazelle fuel consumption per 100 km (gasoline) – 11.7 liters, for a diesel engine – 9.2 liters;
- Fuel tank volume – 70 l;
- The maximum permissible speed is up to 145 km/h;
- Gearbox – mechanical, five steps;
- The front wheel suspension on the 4x2 version is spring, independent;
- Ground clearance – 150 mm for rear-wheel drive, 205 mm for all-wheel drive;
- The weight of a fully loaded vehicle is 2800 kg (minivan), 2650 kg (minibus with 10 seats).
First generation Sobol Barguzin cars have the following modifications:
- GAZ 2217 – minivan, six passenger seats;
- GAZ 22171 – minibus, ten passenger seats;
- GAZ 22177 – minivan with 4x4 wheel arrangement;
- GAZ 221717 is a minibus with all-wheel drive.
On the first generation of Barguzinov, only two types of engines were installed:
- Diesel engine GAZ 560 (under license from STEYR MOTORS) with a power of 110 hp. s., volume 2.1 l.
- Gasoline carburetor engine ZMZ 406 with a power of 110 hp. s., volume 2.3 l.
This is what the ZMZ 406 engine looks like
Pros of the car
The new model of the Gorky Automobile Plant combines all the best from older models. Reviews of the new Sobol 4x4 2016 only confirm this. What advantages does the car have?
- Increased ground clearance.
- Economical (fuel consumption is 7.5 liters per 100 km).
- Patency.
- Capacity.
- Small external dimensions allowing you to drive freely around the city.
- Versatility.
- Low price.
- Availability of cruise control.
- Possibility of locking rear differential.
- Comfort.
Of course, there is another side to the coin. What do buyers say about the negative characteristics of the new Sobol?
The main differences between Barguzin and Gazelle
It is believed that the Sobol is a more compact version of the Gazelle, and this is true. Although the Sobol is a car of a completely different class, the models have a lot in common - the same components and assemblies, appearance, interior and exterior elements. When comparing models, it is better to consider the main differences. And the main differences between Sobol are as follows:
- One wheel is installed on the rear axle (the Gazelle has a gable tire);
- Load capacity is approximately one and a half times less;
- The wheelbase is 140 mm shorter;
- Unlike springs, the Gazelle is equipped with a front spring suspension (4x2 version);
- More compact luxury interior;
Barguzin interior and torpedo
The big advantage of the front suspension on the Barguzin is that it does not have kingpins. Ball joints are installed instead.
Buy new minibuses Sobol Barguzin.
GAZ Sobol and Barguzin family of cars are comfortable and elegant cars in which you can not only move around, but also fully relax and work.
These minibuses are very similar, however, differences still exist. Sable is well suited for passenger transport, and is more often used by schools and travel agencies. The cabin is designed to carry ten passengers. Excellent heat and sound insulation, opening side windows and a ventilation hatch increase the level of comfort at any time of the year.
Barguzin is also used for passenger transportation, but it is distinguished by increased comfort. The seats are equipped with comfortable headrests and armrests. They are located face to face so that passengers can communicate and conduct business negotiations. In the center of the cabin there is a small table that allows you to work on a laptop or fill out documents. Smooth running, stability at high speeds and better handling are ensured by an independent front suspension, so the level of comfort of the GAZ Barguzin is similar to a passenger car.
Buying minibuses Sobol and Barguzin is the optimal solution for business or family vacation.
Models 2003-2010.
In 2003, Sobol Barguzin underwent major modernization. In addition to modified headlights and hood, interior improvements, the range of engines installed on the car has changed. The line added a turbocharged GAZ-5601 (95 hp) and an injection ZMZ 405.
After 2008, the GAZ 2217 model was supplemented with 2.4-liter Chrysler engines and the improved GAZ 5602; since 2009, the Ulyanovsk Motor Plant’s internal combustion engine (2.9 l) entered the series.
The side rear view mirrors have also changed - they have become more voluminous.
"Barguzin business"
“Sobol Barguzin”, unlike “Gazelle”, is more suitable for business trips or as a family car. To a large extent, comfort depends on the thoughtful interior decoration. All the details of the interior of the car in the next generation Soboley model - GAZ 2217 Barguzin Business - have been well worked out.
On the roads, the new model is easily recognizable by its modified front bumper and radiator grille trim. The instrument panel, audio system, air conditioning and heating systems have changed in the cabin. The stove is now controlled using an electronic unit.
The steering wheel has acquired different shapes and has become more pleasant to the touch. Installed different turn switches and windshield wipers. The new brand began to use an imported clutch - due to this, speeds are now switched more easily, and the clutch pedal is pressed noticeably softer. The plant gives a guarantee of 80 thousand km or two years for the new Sobol Barguzin, the interval between maintenance has increased to 15 thousand km.
The new model is also equipped with two types of engines – a 2.9-liter UMZ-4216 gasoline engine and a promising Cummins turbocharged diesel engine (2.8-liter).
Technical characteristics of Cummins ISF2.8s3129T:
- Engine type – diesel, turbocharged;
- Cooling – liquid;
- Number of cylinders – 4;
- The cylinder arrangement is in-line;
- Power – 120 l. With.;
- Compression ratio – 16.5;
- Fuel consumption at a speed of 60 km/h – 8.5 l;
- Fuel consumption at a speed of 80 km/h – 10.3 l;
- Piston diameter – 94 mm;
- Piston stroke – 100 mm;
- Cylinder volume – 2.8 l;
- Ecology class - Euro-3 or Euro-4.
The diesel engine in the Gazelle is very reliable and has a service life of about 500 thousand km before major repairs. The diesel engine at Barguzin Business has the following refueling tanks:
- Engine oil in the crankcase – 5 l;
- Oil in the oil filter – 0.44 l;
- Liquid in the cooling system – 6 l;
- Between the max and min marks on the dipstick – 1 liter.
Return to contents
Design differences between Sobol and Barguzin.
Externally, both cars are very similar, and the main differences lie in the level of comfort and technical characteristics.
- The main purpose of the Sobol is to transport passengers, and the Barguzin is a car for work or leisure, it is used more often by business people
- In Sobol there are more seats, in Barguzin the seats are located in front of each other and there is a special table in the middle of the cabin
- Sable is more suitable for harsh climatic and road conditions
- Barguzin has a smooth ride and better handling thanks to its independent front suspension. Therefore, it is more often used in urban environments
- Barguzin has many options to increase comfort: armrests, headrests, more opening windows, etc.
- Barguzin's rear door lifts up, which is not always convenient when loading something heavy or using a forklift
Chassis, transmission, steering and braking system
As for the Barguzin chassis, it has the following technical characteristics:
- Gearbox – mechanical, five-speed, all gears are synchronized (except reverse speed);
- Transfer case (for models with all-wheel drive) – two gears, with gear ratios 1.07 and 1.86;
- Clutch – with one driven disc, hydraulic drive;
- The front suspension for models with rear-wheel drive is independent, double wishbone, for models with all-wheel drive – dependent, on leaf springs. All types of suspension are equipped with a stabilizer and hydraulic shock absorbers;
- The brake system is hydraulically driven, with two separate circuits for the front and rear wheels, with a pressure regulator and a vacuum booster.
There are discs on the front axle and drums on the rear axle. Hand brake on cables, cables go to the rear wheels; - Steering – worm shaft – ball nut type mechanism, gear ratio 16.6; with hydraulic power steering, the column is adjustable in angle and height;
- Rear suspension - leaf spring, with stabilizer and hydraulic shock absorbers;
- The main gear (rear axle) is hypoid type, gear ratio 4.556 for the 4x2 model, gear ratio 5.125 for the 4x4 model.
