2016 Holden Spark LT REVIEW | It’s Fresh And Funky, But An Expensive Little Chihuahua
HOLDEN’S 2016 SPARK LT STRADDLES A BLURRED LINE… it’s tiny, but sits at the top of the newly launched Spark range where it commands a hefty $18,990 plus on-road costs.
This puts it head-to-head with ‘one-size-larger’ hatchbacks such as the sales-leading Mazda2. Indeed, a middle-grade Mazda2 Maxx automatic is the same price as this micro-Holden.
So, while it might be the flagship of the Spark Range, its price has it competing against the class above – like a boxer fighting ‘above his weight’ – slotted into that fuzzy uncomfortable line where the micro segment and the light car class cross.
But will buyers notice, or is this latest model so good that traditional segmentation really doesn’t matter?
Vehicle Style: Micro hatch
Price: $18,990 (plus on-roads)
Engine/trans: 73kW/124Nm 1.4 litre 4cyl petrol | CVT automatic
Fuel Economy claimed: 5.5 l/100km | tested: 8.5 l/100km
OVERVIEW
Typically, a light hatchback such as the Mazda2 is bang-on 4.0-metres-long. The Holden Spark measures 3.6-metres from tip to toe, so there’s more than a 30cm ruler’s length between them.
And, granted, there are pluses in that: it could be the difference between snaring an inner city parking space or not. Conversely, the smaller interior of the Holden could be an issue for some, a fact most clearly highlighted by the 185-litre boot – versus 250 litres for the Mazda2.