- All-new Holden Spark set to shake up the micro-car segment with advanced Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity tech standard on every model
- Holden engineers develop unique suspension and steering tune following significant work in Australia and abroad
- All-new Spark to go on sale April 2016
- Sleek urban styling and polished driving manners
- Standard safety features includes six airbags, ESC, hill start assist, EBD, ABS and traction control
Holden has announced the latest vehicle in its onslaught of new models with the all-new Spark confirmed to go on-sale in Australia from April 2016.
Spark boasts completely redesigned styling with class-leading technology and safety features to give drivers and their passengers peace of mind.
Holden Managing Director and Chairman, Mark Bernhard, said Spark served as another proof point of Holden delivering its future product strategy, with a focus of fresh customers and segments.
“In 2015 we launched Astra, Cascada and Insignia, followed by the Commodore VFII. In April this year we will shake up the micro-car segment with the launch of the all-new Holden Spark,” Mr. Bernhard said.
“Spark takes the micro-car segment to a new level with technological sophistication and composed driving manners. Compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Spark offers connectivity and infotainment features previously unavailable in this segment – these are technologies that the target customers of this car will love.
“Spark has been designed to be an extension of drivers’ lives and personalities. Aside from class-leading connectivity, Spark offers a wide range of genuine accessories to make this car the most individually-customisable Holden ever.”
Spark’s all-new architecture also allowed designers to completely redesign both the exterior and interior of the car, giving it greater road presence and luxury features.
When compared to its predecessor, the all-new Spark has a sleeker exterior appearance and lower profile, thanks to a slightly longer wheelbase, thinner pillars and a reduction in height. Combined with wheels pushed closer to the edges of the fenders and a range of paint colours, the overall design package delivers a more mature, distinctive presence.
Despite Spark’s more athletic profile, inside the car, designers have achieved comparable spaciousness and a more engaging driving position in addition to upgraded materials and a clean, contemporary design throughout.
Under the bonnet, Spark is powered by a new 1.4-litre engine capable of producing 73kW of power and 128Nm of torque, ensuring that quick burst of speed often required in urban driving.
Importantly, Holden engineers had a significant involvement in the development of Spark’s suspension and ride and handling tuning, during test trips in South Korea and extensive development in Australia.
Holden’s Director of Vehicle Performance, Ian Butler, said the Holden Engineering team had been vital in ensuring Spark’s ability to perform in Australian conditions, in both metropolitan and regional areas.
“Spark is a truly global car but our engineers have made sure it performs exceptionally in Australia’s varied road conditions,” Mr. Butler said.
“We have been working with GM Korea since the beginning of the program and were able to collaborate to ensure the car is agile and nimble in urban environments whilst remaining composed and comfortable on the open road.
“Key to developing the drive characteristics, was a significant round of testing and development at our Lang Lang proving ground conducted by our engineers, in addition to giving target customers the chance to evaluate the car.
“We’re confident the all-new Spark will set a new benchmark for the micro-car segment.”
Safety remains Holden’s first priority and despite its small stature, Spark demonstrates this unreservedly with a wealth of safety features performing to the highest standards. In addition to a new, stiffer and stronger architecture, Spark comes with six airbags as standard and active safety features including ESC, hill start assist, EBD, ABS, traction control and rear view camera (LT).
Spark will go on sale at Holden dealerships across Australia from April 2016.
