Why buy Holden Barina?
Consider buying a used Holden Barina in Australia for its budget-friendly price, reliability, fuel efficiency, and readily available parts due to Holden's former prominence. However, drawbacks include its discontinuation and subsequent impact on resale value, potential lack of modern features, and higher mileage on older models. Despite these considerations, a used Barina could still be a practical choice for urban driving, provided buyers prioritize thorough research and select a well-maintained vehicle.
Holden Barina range and updates
The Holden Barina, introduced in 1985, evolved through generations based on GM models like the Suzuki Cultus and Opel Corsa. It maintained popularity for its affordability and practicality, receiving a significant update in 2011 with the Chevrolet Sonic platform. However, in 2017, GM's decision to retire the Holden brand led to the cessation of Barina production in 2018. Although Holden dealerships may still provide parts and service, the discontinuation marked the end of an era for the small car segment in Australia.
Holden Barina tech and features
Since the Holden Barina was a rebadged version of other GM vehicles, the specific tech and features offered varied depending on the model year and variant. However, some common features across different Barina models in Australia include:
- Safety: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), airbags (number varied depending on model year), traction control (on some later models)
- Comfort: Air conditioning, power windows (sometimes driver's side only on base models), power steering
- Infotainment: AM/FM radio, CD player (on some models), AUX input (on some later models)
Holden Barina running costs and value
Owning a Holden Barina in Australia entails manageable running costs and offers decent value. With fuel efficiency ranging from 5.5L/100km to 7.0L/100km and fuel prices around $1.80 per litre, annual fuel expenses can be estimated at approximately $1,350 for a car driven 15,000km per year. Servicing costs, typically between $200 to $400 per service, are reasonable, though they may vary depending on factors like model year and location. Registration and insurance costs are contingent on individual circumstances. Despite average resale value compared to other small cars, the Barina remains a budget-friendly option for those seeking affordability and practicality in their vehicle choice.
Highlights:
Combines Performance and Efficiency:
- L/100km Range: 5.5L/100km to 7.0L/100km (depending on model year and engine size)
Petrol Range Only:
- No electric options available.
Ownership Cost:
- Considered budget-friendly.
- Fuel Costs: ~$1,350/year (example: 6.0L/100km, 15,000km/year, $1.80/L)
- Servicing: $200-$400 per service (variable)
- Registration & Insurance: Variable
Appeals To:
- Budget-minded drivers seeking affordability and practicality.
- City drivers due to good fuel efficiency.
Overall
The Holden Barina, a budget-friendly choice known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, offers practicality and affordability to Australian drivers. Despite its discontinuation and potential lack of modern features, its readily available parts and manageable running costs make it an appealing option, especially for urban driving. With a range of tech and safety features across different models, the Barina remains a viable choice for those prioritizing value and efficiency in their vehicle selection.