!NEW! European Invasion: Holden Astra and Cascada Launch

• Holden launches European-sourced Astra GTC, Astra VXR and Cascada convertible
• Astra available in performance focused 1.6L turbo and 2.0L turbo engines
• Cascada convertible introduced with a Special Launch Edition 

2015 Holden Astra GTC Sport 

2015 Holden Astra VXR

Holden’s introduction of the stylish and sporty Astra alongside the elegant Cascada convertible marks the beginning of an exciting product onslaught by Holden, promising to deliver 24 major vehicle launches and 36 powertrain combinations in the next five years.

2015 Holden Cascada Convertible

The European manufactured Astra and Cascada are both designed and engineered in Germany, at Opel’s Russelsheim base, and exhibit the exceptional build quality and refinement synonymous with European cars.

Engineering integrity and the promise of outstanding road performance is ensured after long, demanding validation testing - 10,000kms of which for VXR was completed at the iconic mecca for all driving enthusiasts; the Nurburgring Nordschliefe track.

Holden’s Executive Director – Sales, Peter Keley, said Astra and Cascada would act as aspirational, halo vehicles to Holden, and Holden Dealers were excited to finally take delivery of the cars.

“Astra and Cascada exhibit all the hallmarks of premium European manufactured cars.  Both are visually stunning with great road presence and exceptional build quality.” Mr Keley said.

“We are confident these are the right cars for Australia, giving buyers a vehicle to aspire to own and this is something echoed by our Dealers.

“Dealers nationwide have expressed interest and excitement in Astra and Cascada and are looking forward to getting their hands on them.”

ASTRA

The Holden Astra 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.

ASTRA GTC AND GTC SPORT

2015 Holden Astra GTC Sport 

Astra GTC and GTC Sport are stylish, progressive looking sports hatches that effortlessly blend drive comfort with a sports look and feel.  Both come equipped with a lively 1.6 litre turbocharged engine coupled with a responsive six-speed manual or automatic transmission. 

The automatic transmission is accompanied by active select and when combined with the 1.6 litre turbo engine provides 125 kW power and 260 Nm torque, ensuring an exciting and engaging driving experience.  In the even sportier, manual transmission, Astra offers an increased 147 kW power and 280 Nm torque, targeted at those wanting a more dynamic drive.

The European engineered Astra comes with a high-tech HiPerStrut front suspension to offer improved handling characteristics and direct steering response.  With a shortened spindle length and reduced kingpin inclination, Astra’s HiPerStrut helps prevent the torque steer so often seen in powerful front-wheel-drive cars.

Sportec bolster sports seat (leather appointed in GTC Sport)

Inside Astra GTC and GTC Sport the European design and engineering excels with Sportec bolster sports seat (leather appointed in GTC Sport) and the award winning Holden MyLink infotainment system taking centre stage.  The MyLink system comes with a seven-inch colour screen display, integrated Pandora®, Stitcher™ and TuneIn Radio apps as well as satellite navigation.

2015 Holden Astra GTC Sport - MyLink system comes with a seven-inch colour screen display, integrated Pandora®, Stitcher™ and TuneIn Radio apps as well as satellite navigation.

In addition to the impressive list of features already available on Astra GTC, GTC Sport adds 19-inch alloy wheels, alloy sports pedals, leather sports seats and a sports body kit to earn the ‘Sport’ name it proudly bares.

ASTRA VXR

2015 Holden Astra VXR

Sitting at the top of the Astra model range, Astra VXR is the ultimate ‘hot hatch’, boasting a 2.0 litre turbocharged engine which is able to unleash 206 kW of power and a staggering 400 Nm of torque.  Brembo front brakes provide a security net to accompany the Astra VXR’s unbridled power, in addition to electro-hydraulic steering for a direct, engaging steering feel, allowing drivers to put the car precisely where they want it.

Astra VXR is a ‘no holds barred’ sports hatch that is as at home on track as in the city.  Key to its versatility is the acclaimed FlexRide tuning system which allows drivers to choose from three pre-configured ride settings according to their environment: 

• Standard – all-round performance with comfort
• Sport – stiffer chassis, improved agility and more direct steering
• VXR – more direct steering, more responsive throttle, and tuned for maximum performance

Supporting Astra VXR’s impressive dynamic setup is its unmistakable appearance and superior road presence.  VXR wears 20-inch alloy wheels, coupled with VXR sports body kit, alloy sports pedals and VXR steering wheel.

2015 Holden Astra VXR - Eight-way adjustable VXR leather appointed sports seats with power bolsters and lumbar support for both driver and passenger.

Like its calmer siblings, VXR is well equipped inside too.  As well as offering the same MyLink infotainment system as GTC and GTC Sport, it also shows off eight-way adjustable VXR leather appointed sports seats with power bolsters and lumbar support for both driver and passenger. 

CASCADA

2015 Holden Cascada Convertible

Setting a new benchmark in attainable luxury, Cascada is an elegant, yet responsive, full size four-seat convertible designed for beachside cruising and the open road.

Formally known as Astra Convertible, Cascada has established a name in its own right with its ability to appeal to a completely different type of buyer.

Cascada will be available in two guises from launch; Cascada and a special Cascada Launch Edition, of which only 50 units will be available.

CASCADA

Cascada comes with a versatile 1.6 litre turbo engine, which when coupled with its smooth six-speed automatic transmission, delivers an easy and enjoyable driving experience, on urban and regional roads.

Dynamically, Cascada has been engineered with strength and rigidity in mind, ensuring drivers get the perfect balance between solid cornering performance and the freedom associated with driving a convertible.

Stunning exterior design is complimented with 18-inch alloy wheels and a secure, triple-layered acoustic power hood able to be retracted in just 17 seconds whilst on the move at speeds of up to 50kph.

Cascada’s perforated leather appointed seats and intuitive MyLink infotainment system provide a luxurious touch on a flexible, four seat interior design.

2015 Holden Cascada Convertible - Perforated leather appointed seats and intuitive MyLink infotainment system

CASCADA LAUNCH EDITION

A limited number of just 50 special, Cascada Launch Edition vehicles will be available to celebrate the return of the convertible body style to the Holden range.

Cascada Launch Edition dials up the luxury even more by adding premium Nappa leather appointed and ventilated front seats and a leather sports steering wheel.  There is also significant differentiation on the car’s exterior with 20-inch alloy wheels, Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) and Bi-Xenon headlamps with LED DRL’s (Daylight Running Lamps).

SERVICE

Holden’s commitment to delivering excellent customer value extends beyond the purchase of Astra and Cascada, with the recently launched and ground-breaking Holden Lifetime Capped Price Servicing (CPS) program.

And with Holden’s extensive dealer network offering Australia’s largest CPS program Astra and Cascada buyers get peace of mind with transparent service pricing for life.

Astra and Cascada will go on sale 4 May 2015 and are available in a wide range of exterior colour choices to suit a range of personalities.

PRODUCT DETAILS

ASTRA

Astra GTC and GTC Sport colours Summit White Power Red Carbon Flash Black* Sunny Melon Yellow Buzz Blue* Silver Lake*

Astra VXR colours Summit White Power Red Carbon Flash Black* Sunny Melon Yellow Arden Blue*

^*Prestige paint at $550 premium

GTC

• 1.6 litre SIDI turbo engine
• Six-speed manual / six-speed automatic transmission
• Dual front, side and curtain airbags
• ESC and ABS
• Hill start assist
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• 17-inch steel space saver spare wheel
• Cloth Morrocana sports seats with Sportec bolsters
• Satellite Navigation
• Air conditioning with particle filter
• Electric Power Steering (EPS)
• Front and Rear Park Assist
• ISOFIX child seat anchorage system (two positions)
• Auto headlamps
• Projector headlamps (halogen)
• Rain sensing wipers
• Start/stop (MT only)
• Leather steering wheel
• Enhanced multi-function display (one colour) with:
  • Vehicle information menu
  • Trip information menu
  • Fuel economy menu
  • Warning/messages
• Holden MyLink Infotainment System with seven-inch colour screen display
• Integrated apps
  • Pandora
  • Stitcher
  • Tune In Radio
• DAB digital radio
• Single CD player with MP3 capability
• Universal hands free with Bluetooth phone
• Bluetooth® audio streaming, USB and auxiliary input jack

GTC Sport (above GTC)

• 19-inch alloy wheels
• LED tail lamps
• Perforated leather appointed Mondial trim
• Eight-way adjustable driver seat with power lumbar control
• Heated front seats
• Alloy sports pedals
• Dual zone climate control
• Leather sports steering wheel
• Sports body kit (front bumper lower spoiler edge, rear bumper lower spoiler edge, rocker moulding)
• Electric park brake

Astra VXR

• 2.0 litre turbo engine
• Six-speed manual transmission
• Dual front, side and curtain airbags
• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Performance brakes – Brembo front calipers, front and rear cross drilled rotors
• Alloy sports pedals
• FlexRide with continuous damping control
• Electro-hydraulic power steering
• Start/stop
• Rear park assist
• ISOFIX child seat anchorage system (two positions)
• Sports performance chassis
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• ESC and ABS
• Auto headlamps
• LED tail lamps
• VXR roof spoiler
• VXR sports seats
• Perforated leather appointed Nappa trim
• Eight-way adjustable heated driver and front passenger seat
• Power bolsters and power lumbar – driver and passenger seats
• Satellite navigation
• VXR Leather steering wheel
• VXR floor mats
• Dual zone climate control
• Enhanced multi-function display with:
  • Vehicle information menu
  • Trip information menu
  • Fuel economy menu
  • Warning/messages
• Holden MyLink Infotainment System with 7” colour screen display
• Integrated apps
  • Pandora
  • Stitcher
  • Tune In Radio
• DAB digital radio
• Single CD player with MP3 capability
• Universal hands free with Bluetooth phone
• Bluetooth® audio streaming, USB and auxiliary input jack

CASCADA

Cascada colours

• Summit White
• Carbon Flash Black*
• Phantom Grey*
• Deep Sky Blue*
• Nitrate Silver*

^*Prestige paint at $550 premium

Cascada

• 1.6 litre SIDI turbo engine
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• Dual front and side airbags
• ESC and ABS
• Hill start assist
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• 17-inch steel space saver spare wheel
• Electric folding acoustically insulated roof
• Sports suspension
• Electric park brake
• Heated power outside mirrors
• Heated front sports seats
• Leather appointed trim perforated Siena seats
• Alloy sports pedals
• Satellite navigation
• Cruise control
• Rear view camera
• Dual zone air conditioning
• Electric Power Steering (EPS)
• Front and Rear Park Assist
• ISOFIX child seat anchorage system (two positions)
• Auto projector headlamps (halogen), DRL’s and front fog lamps
• Rain sensing wipers
• Heated leather steering wheel
• Enhanced multi-function display (one colour) with:
  • Vehicle information menu
  • Trip information menu
  • Fuel economy menu
  • Warning/messages
• Holden MyLink Infotainment System with 7” colour screen display
• Integrated apps
  • Pandora
  • Stitcher
  • Tune In Radio
• DAB digital radio
• Single CD player with MP3 capability
• Universal hands free with Bluetooth
• Bluetooth® audio streaming, USB and auxiliary input jack

Cascada Launch Edition (50 units)

• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Premium nappa leather appointed sports seats
• Ventilated front seats
• Leather sports steering wheel
• Adaptive Forward Lighting and Bi-Xenon headlamps with LED DRL’s

!NEW! GM Holden Appoints Chairman and Managing Director; Announces 24 Major Vehicle Launches By 2020

• Mark Bernhard returns to Holden
• Holden to deliver product onslaught

Mark Bernhard will return to Holden as Chairman and Managing Director, General Motors (GM) Executive Vice President and President of GM International, Stefan Jacoby, announced today.

Mr Bernhard began his career in the automotive industry at Holden in 1986, undertaking senior finance roles across GM’s global operations, over the past four decades. He is a former CFO of GM Holden and his current position is Vice President and CFO of Shanghai GM.

Mr Jacoby said that given his background and experience, Mr Bernhard is the right person to lead GM Holden.

“Mark’s knowledge of GM Holden, our region and GM’s global operations will serve him well in his new role,” Mr Jacoby said.

“He will champion the ongoing transition of GM Holden to a National Sales Company and the repositioning of the Holden brand for long-term growth and profitability.”

Mr Bernhard briefly visited Australia today to speak with GM Holden dealers and will take up his new role in the third quarter this year.  He will succeed GM Holden Interim Managing Director and CFO Jeff Rolfs.

“I want to thank Jeff for taking on leadership of GM Holden on an interim basis. Once the transition with Mark is complete, Jeff will continue to play an important role at GM Holden as CFO,” Mr Jacoby said.

Mr Jacoby also announced details of Holden’s major new vehicle launch program, delivering 24 major new vehicle launches and 36 new powertrain combinations over the next five years.

Holden Barina Spark 

“GM is investing significantly to broaden the Holden product portfolio and deliver world-class vehicles,” Mr Jacoby said.

New Opel KARL

“Holden is accessing GM’s global operations to assemble its biggest and best ever product line-up. This new model onslaught will ensure Holden has world-class products in every major segment – a true customer-driven product strategy.  

Holden Captiva 5 SUV

Holden Captiva 7 SUV

“While I can’t reveal all the details, I can say that Holden will debut an all-new Barina Spark in the first quarter of 2016, launch a global Captiva replacement and another all-new, world-class SUV to ensure comprehensive offerings in the crucial SUV market segment.  

New Buick Envision SUV

“Supporting this product onslaught is the bold, new Let’s Go There brand campaign and an ongoing commitment to achieving best-practice customer service.” 

Today’s announcements demonstrate GM’s commitment to Holden and reveal further details about Holden’s long term strategy. In the past 12 months, Holden has also announced: 

Coming to Australia and New Zealand: Holden Astra VXR, Insignia VXR and Cascada convertible

• Cascada convertible, Astra VXR hatch and Insignia VXR sedan will launch in 2015;
• Holden vehicles will continue to be tuned and tested for Australian conditions and customers with the retention of the famous Lang Lang Proving Ground in Victoria;
• Holden’s Global Design centre continues to contribute to local and global product programs;
• More than one-third of Holden’s future product portfolio will be sourced from Europe;
• The esteemed Commodore nameplate will live on with Holden’s next-generation large car; and
• Holden will have a true sports car in its future product portfolio.

Mark Bernhard Biography

Mark Bernhard is currently vice president and chief financial officer of Shanghai GM in Shanghai, China, a position he has held since November 2011. He also was a member of the GM-SAIC joint venture’s Executive Committee.

Mark Bernhard

Mark began his GM career with GM Holden in 1986, holding various positions in the Finance function.

He relocated to Zurich, Switzerland, in 1996 as Manager of Budgets and Consolidation for the then GM International Operations. In 1998, Mark was appointed Director of Financial Reporting and Analysis for GM International Operations in Detroit. Two years later, he took on the role of Director of Special Projects at GM Asia Pacific in Singapore, working on the acquisition of Daewoo Motor Company.

In 2002, Mark became Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Shanghai GM. He was appointed Chief Financial Officer of the GM China Group in 2005. He returned to Australia in 2007 as CFO and Executive Director of Finance for GM Holden, navigating the global financial crisis.

Mark has a Bachelor of Business (accounting) degree from Monash University, as well as a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Deakin University. He is an FCPA with CPA Australia and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD).

Mark received the Silver Magnolia Award from the Shanghai Municipal Government, which is given to expatriates for their contribution to the economic development of the city. He also received the 2014 Australia China Alumni Award for Banking and Finance.