[2] Derived from its predecessor, the VAZ-2103,[1] 2106 was created as its alternative due to expense and complexity of production of chrome elements which were severely reduced on it (although it did not fully replace it until 1984, when the 2103 was finally discontinued).

[4] For many consumers, it was "the top of the Eastern Bloc charts for comfort and prestige",[3] since the more expensive and luxurious GAZ and ZIL cars, intended firstly for party members and various other state officials, were out of reach for them.

[3] Internally it was almost as same as its predecessor with only minimal differences, most notably by being the first VAZ model with height adjustable headrests on front seats and also by its steering wheel; it was visually easily recognizable by being decorated with classic Russian ornaments together with Lada logo on its central (leather) part.

It borrowed many of its elements to it, like firstly its 1600 cc 75 hp (55 kW) petrol engine, as well as its headlights and taillights, direction pointers, side/external mirrors, front seat headrests, steering wheel, instruments and many other details.

Internally, the aging Fiat 125 steering wheel (firstly used by VAZ-2103 and later by VAZ-2121 Niva) also featuring chrome elements was replaced by newer one.

[8] The reviewers noted that the result was unsurprising and that the car was outdated by the time of the test, with its construction dating back to the 1960s.