HOLDEN is set to launch its global persona down under with a bang, following the unveiling of European hero car the Insignia VXR and the relaunch of the Astra nameplate, along with its convertible partner in crime – the Cascada.
The Insignia is the flagship of the Euro invasion, it’s first all-wheel-drive (AWD) turbocharged performance sedan (a challenger to the 2015 Subaru Liberty 3.6R and Hyundai Sonata Premium 2.0 turbo) will arrive in Australian dealerships next month.
Following the launch of Astra and Cascada, Holden will welcome the top of the range, sporty Insignia VXR which boasts stunning design, sophisticated technology and European quality all in a true mid-sized performance car.
Built in Russelsheim, Germany, Insignia VXR features state-of-the-art AWD technology and sporty performance via a 2.8 litre V6 turbocharged engine which, when partnered with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivers 239kW of power and an impressive 435Nm of torque.
Peter Keley, Executive Director of Sales, said Insignia VXR was an exciting and fitting addition to the Holden range.
“Performance and great to drive have always been part of Holden’s DNA. Add to this a German designed and engineered AWD performance sedan, loaded with equipment, and you have one very exciting vehicle,” Mr Keley said.
The vehicle will introduce three new sophisticated technologies to Holden, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Change Alert and Auto Emergency Braking, which join numerous other premium features such as Adaptive Forward Lighting, Blind Spot Alert and FlexRide Suspension.
Insignia offers three performance settings; Standard, Sport and VXR, allowing drivers to customise the vehicle’s performance features such as responsive accelerator and gear change, sport steering, firmer sports suspension and a greater rear bias AWD setting.
As for the Astra, the nameplate became a firm favourite with Australian drivers and resonated with those looking for European performance when it was first launched in 1996. The refreshed 2015 Holden Astra is introduced in GTC and GTC Sport trim levels in addition to the ultra-sporty VXR, exuding exceptional road presence and a stylish, unmistakably European design.
The Cascada, formerly the Astra Convertible, is an elegant, yet responsive, full size four-seat convertible designed for beach side cruising and the open road.
