VAZ-21213 and its modifications - off-road passenger cars. All wheels are constantly driving (non-disconnectable four-wheel drive), there is a center differential lock mode. Body - load-bearing, all-metal, welded. Engine - four-cylinder, in-line, gasoline, four-stroke; location - front, longitudinal. The VAZ-21213 is equipped with a carburetor engine mod. 21213 with a working volume of 1.7 liters, on the VAZ-21214 - an engine 21214 of the same volume with distributed fuel injection. (Previously, the 21214 engine with central fuel injection and a microprocessor ignition system was installed on VAZ-21214 cars). VAZ-21215 (exported) is equipped with a 1.9-liter XUD-9SD diesel engine of the Peugeot-Citroen concern. A gasoline engine with central injection and a diesel engine are practically not found in Russia and are not described in this manual.

On VAZ-21214 cars, a toxicity reduction system with a three-component neutralizer is installed. To avoid damage to the catalytic converter and oxygen sensor, do not operate these vehicles on leaded gasoline.