By EWAN KENNEDY
A lot rests on Holden’s Cascada.
The company hopes the model will see it through the difficult period of shutting down Australian manufacture and into the future of import-only cars.
Holden has painted itself into a corner by creating the impression that all cars with Holden badges have been made in this country and the news that Holden is closing its Australian factories has hit sales.
The reality is that cars with Holden badges have been imported from as far afield as Germany, Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Mexico and the Cascada is built by Opel in Poland.
Opel opted for a soft-top rather than a folding hardtop for the Cascada/ Astra which tells everyone that you’re in a convertible even when you’ve been forced to shut out the weather.
We initially felt the body behind the windscreen was rather too long; stretched out, even. But after spending time with the shape it grew on us, possibly because the upward sweeping lines in the sides help to shorten it visually.
The convertible’s interior is classy, with sweeping lines enhanced by the exposed stitching. The dials are well placed and pass their messages at a glance.
Naturally, Cascada has the Holden MyLink infotainment system.
In this instance it has a seven-inch colour screen display with satellite navigation and Pandora, Stitcher and TuneIn Radio apps.
It’s not particularly easy to use but with experience you will learn to find your way around without too much frustration.
The 1.6 turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine has 125 kW power and 260 Nm torque and drives thorough a six-speed automatic transmission.
There’s no manual option as in other vehicles in the Astra range.
In addition to mandatory safety items such as airbags (dual front and side), ABS brakes and electronic stability control, the Cascada also comes with two IsoFix child-seat anchorages; a reversing camera; automatic lights and wipers; and front and rear parking sensors.
Legroom is somewhat restricted in the rear so compromises between those in the front and back will often be necessary.
However, Cascada is significantly better than most in this class due to its long body.
Boot space is reasonable because soft-tops need less space to stow the roof than do folding hardtops and the rear seatbacks have a 50/50 split for passenger/ luggage compromise.
The extra mass of the convertible body (which needs extra metal under the floor to make up for the strength lost by removing the roof) takes the edge off its performance. Unlike the Astra hatch that has 147 kW power and 280 Nm torque if you opt for the six-speed manual, Holden Cascada is automatic only.
If you’re looking for a high-performance open-top car then Cascada isn’t it, but as a cruiser it’s excellent.
The engine’s peak torque runs all the way from 1650 to 4500 revs so most drivers will be running with maximum torque virtually all day, every day.
Fuel consumption was reasonable, about six to seven litres per 100 kilometres on motorways and country roads, rising to eight to 10 litres around town.
On smooth roads the Cascada is exceptionally quiet and comfortable while rough roads do generate some scuttle shake.
However this is probably the most comfortable open-top car we have ever experienced.
Handling is on the soft side and is unlikely to appeal to those who enjoy early Sunday mornings on their favourite mountain roads.
Wind buffeting and noise is minimal, even when the windows are down and we did a trip of a couple of hours under the stars that will remain in our minds for a long time.
Sadly, in most open-top cars we find ourselves putting the roof back up again after half an hour or so due to windrush.
Holden’s new Cascada is an excellent convertible that’s designed for cruising not bruising.
With a starting price of just $41,990 plus on-roads we can see it carving out a nice niche for itself among long-time Holden lovers, as well as pulling others into the showroom as well.
To arrange a test drive contact Barry Bourke Holden, 755 Princes Highway, Berwick, on 9707 2222, or Cranbourne Holden, 217A South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne, on 5995 4555.
Model Range
Cascada 1.6-litre turbo-petrol two-door convertible: $41,990 (automatic)
