2015 New York Motor Show: Holden Spark to drop Barina name

THE replacement for the Barina Spark will simply be known as the Spark.

It was shown simultaneously today by Chevrolet at the Seoul and New York motor shows, revealing a sleeker, more modern design.

The new Holden Spark will go on sale in Australia early in 2016 as the most affordable model in an expanding vehicle portfolio.

While pricing hasn’t been confirmed, the Spark is expected to be about the same as the current Barina Spark, which sells from $12,890 plus on-road costs.

“I believe this car will set a new benchmark in this highly competitive segment,” said Holden executive director of sales, Peter Keley.

“It’s easy to see why we are so confident the all-new Spark will stand out from the competition and continue to attract a younger set of buyers to the Holden brand.”

Holden said the Spark will get local tuning to optimise it for Australian conditions.

“The car will feature unique suspension and steering tunes following thousands of kilometres and months of extensive work at our Lang Lang proving ground and on public roads,” said Ian Butler, Holden director of vehicle performance.

“We made sure the car remains fun and agile but will now deliver even more sophistication.”

GM International’s vice-president of international design, Mike Simcoe, said the Spark design “has grown up”.

“With a lower roof height, thinner pillars and a more efficient package, where the wheels are pushed to the edges of the fenders, the car now has a more substantial, firmly planted presence,” he said.

“It retains its youthful flair, but reflects the maturation of the global micro-car market and customers’ desire for richly styled and highly contented choices.”

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