|
|
|
|
25/09/2011
REVIEW By DEREK OGDEN
|
|
|
Holden has been a bit quiet with its Barina range over the last year or so, but is back with a bang with a new model that offers a high level of specification for a keen price, all capped off by a top five-star crash rating.
Barina is a true global car with considerable design input from Downunder and sold in more than 60 countries, with names such as Chevrolet Aveo and Sonic.
Holden Executive Director, Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, John Elsworth, said the high standard specification would make Barina a standout in the highly competitive light car segment.
“Barina is one of Australia’s favourite small cars and most recognised nameplates and the new generation Barina has taken a huge leap forward,” Mr Elsworth said.
“It also makes the technology and safety features you’d expect on a large car available as standard in the light segment, which will be hugely appealing to customers.”
Standard on the Barina are Bluetooth audio streaming, USB input and iPod connectivity, steering wheel controls, cruise control and ‘follow-me home’ headlamps and smart cabin storage, including twin glove boxes.
Mr Elsworth said Holden’s design influence is instantly recognisable with dynamic looks and the strong road presence.
Barina hatch was designed by Ondrej Koromhaz, an Australian design team member, on secondment to the GM Design studio in Korea. “We think he’s done a great job at capturing the Holden DNA,” Elsworth added.
On the outside, the new Barina, Holden says, takes on a more masculine look than previously with a solid stance contributing to driving stability. Motor-cycle-style headlamps flank a two-storey radiator grille designed to keep the under-bonnet temperatures at optimal levels.
Muscular flanks and broad shoulders lead the way to rear doors that include concealed handles giving the car a hint of a sporty coupe. Rear lights again take their cues from the motorcycle.
Inside the cabin there is an air of space and calmness thanks, in part, to expansive windows made from double-layer glass aimed at shutting out unwanted traffic noise.
Instruments, including a digital speed readout, are clear and easy to reach. Standard features include Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, USB input with iPod connectivity, and steering wheel-mounted switches, including those for cruise control.
The Barina boasts an upgraded 1.6-litre DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine coupled with a five-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission with Active Select.
The engine, which underwent Australian engineering input plus local testing, puts out 85 kW of power and 155 Nm of torque with a claimed combined fuel consumption of around seven litres per 100 km.
Features contributing to the car’s five-star safety rating include driver, front passenger, front side and curtain airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, seatbelt reminders, Electronic Stability Control, collapsible pedals and head restraints on all seats.
On a series of short drives through Melbourne city and suburban streets the new Holden Barina was easy to handle and produced a firm yet comfortable ride. The six-speed manual flicked smoothly between cogs and the auto was never put under excessive stress.
The Spark, starting at $12,490, will be retained as the entry-level Barina hatch, the new Barina with five-speed manual transmission coming in at $15,990 and with six-speed automatic transmission at $17,990.
At launch in November the new Holden Barina will go on sale for a drive-away price of $16,990 with manual transmission.
The new Barina hatch is being marketed as a small car with style and substance . . . and, Holden hopes, all at the right price.
Barina Spark CD 1.2-litre five-door hatch: $12,490 (manual)
Barina Spark CDX 1.2-litre five-door hatch: $14,490 (manual)
Barina 1.6-litre five-door hatch: $15,990 (manual)***, $17,990 (automatic)
(These prices do not include government or dealer charges)
*** Available as a launch special for $16,990 drive away |
|
|
|
|
|
Print Article
Submit Feedback
Email This Article
