Holden Spark creeps up in price

GM HOLDEN'S baby Spark will cost slightly more than the ageing model it replaces when it rolls into showrooms in April, but it will be offered with connectivity features not yet seen in the micro-car segment.

The all-new Spark will be offered in two specification levels, kicking off with the LS manual from $13,990 plus on-road costs, representing a $1100 increase over the outgoing CD, while opting for a continuously variable transmission (CVT) adds $1700, bringing it to $15,690 – $600 more than the old auto.

A more generously specified LT is available exclusively with a CVT and is priced from $18,990.

The entry price means the Spark is more expensive than its rivals, with the Nissan Micra ranging from $13,490 to $16,990 plus on-roads, Mitsubishi's Mirage priced between $11,990 and $13,990, while the Suzuki Celerio is $12,990-$13,990, driveaway.

Kia's Picanto arrives soon and while pricing is yet to be announced, the car-maker told GoAuto last year that it would start at about $14,990.

The auto Spark LS is creeping in on Barina pricing, which starts at $15,390 in manual guise. At the top end, the Spark LT sits not far behind the entry Cruze Equipe hatch that starts at $19,890.

As previously reported, the Spark will be the first micro car in Australia offered with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard across the range, as well as Siri Eyes Free voice recognition software, all matched with a 7.0-inch touchscreen.

In base LS guise, the Spark features central locking, 60/40 split-fold seats, driver information cluster, steering wheel audio controls, air-conditioning, MyLink infotainment system, USB input, electric power steering and 14-inch steel wheels.

Safety features include ESC, ABS and traction control and hill-start assist.

Buyers stepping up to the LT will gain keyless entry, push-button start, leather-wrapped steering wheel, Sportec seat trim, white interior highlights, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, cruise control and 15-inch alloy wheels.

Under the bonnet is a 73kW/128Nm 1.4-litre petrol four-cylinder engine that will be matched with either a five-speed manual gearbox or a CVT.

As reported, Holden's engineering team put the Spark through its paces, ensuring its suspension set-up and ride and handling were ideal for Australian conditions.

Holden says buyers will be able to personalise their Spark thanks to the availability of some “specially designed genuine accessories”.

“Our 1, 2, 3 step strategy is a really easy way to make sure the options customers select work well together to give them the overall look they like and allow them to really express themselves,” said Holden general manager of accessories Steve Manson.

“Our full accessory range includes everything from visual additions such as alloy wheels with coloured inserts to more functional items like bonnet protectors and floor mats. It adds another dimension to an already distinctive and sleek city car.”

Standard paint colours include Summit White, Solar Red and Fresh Lime Green, while prestige paint colours – a $550 option – include Carbon Flash Black, Nitrate Silver, Splash Metallic Blue and Mystic Violet.

2016 Holden Spark pricing*

LS	$13,990
LS (a)	$15,690
LT (a)	$18,990

*Excludes on-road costs