Backstory:
The Holden Barina is currently Kalos based, as is our Aveo. Among other issues the Ausies are trying to resolve, are which vehicle to rebadge as the next Barina.
The previous generation Barina was Opal based and had superior Australasian NCAP testing scores. FYI, the Barina's don't come with the head/thorax side airbags that our Aveo's do. The lowering of the NCAP scores pissed a lot of Australians off.
For more info, see the "Safety" section of (link WIKIPEDIA DAEWOO KALOS ARTICLE and link over from there to the Wikipedia Barina article -- which has more about the controversy.
Barina Decision Looms
Byron Mathioudakis
22 January 2008
(link http://www.goauto.com.au
Holden contemplates cheap versus chic for its next beep-beep baby.
GM Holden is believed to be on the brink of deciding which way to go for the look of its next Barina – Europe or Asia.
GoAuto has learned that the light-car priceleader’s fate will fall on newly appointed managing director and CEO, Mark Reuss.
“It’s still under consideration,” admitted outgoing Holden boss Chris Gubbey.
But, while a decision is expected within the next few weeks, Australia will have to wait until 2009 at the earliest to see the next all-new Barina (although a facelifted version of today’s car is coming mid-year).
Nevertheless, General Motors is working at full speed to have the next Opel/Vauxhall Corsa/Chevrolet Aveo/Holden Barina ready as soon as possible.
“It’s going to be (here) sooner than you think,” Mr Reuss revealed.
(link
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