14 October 2011
In a perfect world, the safety level we expect from large cars would be just as readily available in small cars as well.
One new car is bringing us closer to this ideal. Holden’s new-generation Barina is still light and small but is now accompanied by a recently-awarded 5-star ANCAP rating, where its predecessor had a 4-star rating.
The 2012 Holden Barina hatchback is also sharply priced considering its standard features are usually what you find in more expensive cars. In the new Barina you’ll find Bluetooth audio streaming, USB input and iPod connectivity, steering wheel controls, cruise control and “follow me home” headlamps as standard features. Both front seats are fitted with intelligent seatbelt reminders and the middle rear seat has a three-point seatbelt. There are driver, front passenger, front side and curtain airbags.
If you wanted more from Holden or from the small car segment, now you’ve got it.
Now with even small cars receiving maximum ANCAP ratings, is there any excuse for carmakers to release new models that score any less?
Holden Barina hatch will go on sale around Australia from November this year, with a drive-away price of $16,990 for manual transmission.