2015 Holden Astra, 2015 Holden Cascada Launched in the Land Down Under

This turn of events is curious, to say the least, especially if you consider that the Astra K will enter production “later in 2015” at the Vauxhall Ellesmere Port factory. All in all, we’re glad the Land Down Under finally received its share of the Astra and Cascada, albeit just a little bit too late.

Of course, both models are Euro-sourced and will arrive in various formats. In the 2015 Holden Astra’s case, we are dealing with the GTC, GTC Sport and VXR models. While the GTCs make do with a 1.6-liter SIDI turbo mill, the VXR hot hatchback ups the ante with a 2-liter turbo developing 206 kW (280 BHP).

All Holden Astra derivatives are slated to go on sale on the 4th of May, joined by the 2015 Holden Cascada. As for the convertible, its 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol motor is mated to a six-speed automatic as standard. Holden informs that 50 examples of the Cascada Launch Edition will be available to purchase, celebrating the return of the convertible architecture to the Australian brand’s lineup.

“Astra and Cascada exhibit all the hallmarks of premium European manufactured cars. Both are visually stunning with great road presence and exceptional build quality,” noted Peter Keley, Holden’s executive director of sales. “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."