Site icon Gay Car Boys

European Invasion: Holden Astra and Cascada Launch

gaycarboys - Alan Zurvas

 

 

Top: Astra VXR, Above: Astra GTC

Below: Cascada Convertible

 

After the ill fated Opel experiment, Holden rebadges the Opel Astra as a Holden. The Euro sourced Astra will bolster Holden’s ailing Korean based small car range.

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.

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

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 125kW power and 260Nm torque, ensuring an exciting and engaging driving experience.  In the even sportier, manual transmission, Astra offers an increased 147kW power and 280Nm 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.

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.

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

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 206kW of power and a staggering 400Nm 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: 

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.

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

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.

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 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.

PRICING

Recommended retail prices, excluding dealer delivery and government charges are as follows:

PRODUCT DETAILS

ASTRA

Astra GTC and GTC Sport colours

Astra VXR colours

*Prestige paint at $550 premium

GTC

GTC Sport (above GTC)

Astra VXR

CASCADA

Cascada colours

*Prestige paint at $550 premium

Cascada

Cascada Launch Edition (50 units)

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.

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

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 125kW power and 260Nm torque, ensuring an exciting and engaging driving experience.  In the even sportier, manual transmission, Astra offers an increased 147kW power and 280Nm 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.

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.

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

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 206kW of power and a staggering 400Nm 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: 

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.

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

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.

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 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.

PRICING

Recommended retail prices, excluding dealer delivery and government charges are as follows:

PRODUCT DETAILS

ASTRA

Astra GTC and GTC Sport colours

Astra VXR colours

*Prestige paint at $550 premium

GTC

GTC Sport (above GTC)

Astra VXR

CASCADA

Cascada colours

*Prestige paint at $550 premium

Cascada

Cascada Launch Edition (50 units)

Exit mobile version