UAZ

The iconic UAZ-452 became the Buhanka: The nickname became the official name

The UAZ van family first appeared back in 1958 and was an immediate success in the former USSR. The initial model, the UAZ-450, based on the rugged GAZ-69 SUV, was modernized seven years later (1965) and received the UAZ-452 designation. Since then, this family of vehicles has been produced without any significant changes and is the oldest Russian cars in factory production. Although in the meantime, the UAZ company has started producing more modern SUVs and vans, interest in the “new old-timer” 452 has never waned.

Throughout all these years, the UAZ classic has carried simple numerical designations, recently the manufacturer has called them the SGR family (Old Cargo Series), but the colloquial name “Buhanka”, or “loaf” in Russian, has long been familiar to the public. Now the iconic name, derived from the shape of the van, has finally become official. UAZ announced that the renaming took place on July 31, which means that from the beginning of August 2026, the SGR family will officially be called UAZ Buhanka.

Above the front axle of the “Loaf” is installed a 2.7L gasoline engine, which transmits 112 “horses” and 208 Nm of torque to all four wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission. The Bukhanka scores points with its excellent off-road capabilities – thanks to its 205 mm ground clearance, it can overcome water obstacles 500 mm deep, an approach angle of 30 degrees and a departure angle of 27 degrees. Prices for cargo Bukhankas start at 1.64 million rubles (17,640 euros).

Although, in technical and accompanying documentation, the ancient UAZ is still designated by the old numerical indices, the popular name, now official, is already used in corporate communication materials: on the website, price lists, brochures and catalogs of additional equipment. Despite the name change, the UAZ Buhanka remains available as a minibus, cargo van, van and flatbed truck with a cabin with one or two rows of seats.

You can improve the high variability of your Buchanka with a wide range of retrofitted accessories. You can turn it into an expedition special with maximum terrain pass ability or to a comfortable leisure caravan. You can find the necessary equipment for work use in our offer, but also comfortable elements such as air conditioning, car radio or heated seats.

Another advantage is the minimal use of electronics, simple construction that emphasize reliability and low maintenance costs. 

 

Autonews