Scant months after Opel pulled out of Australia following a disastrous re-launch comes news that the brand is back – with Holden badging. And the cars are coming to New Zealand.

The ever-popular Holden Astra hatch will return toNew Zealand in GTC and VXR form andwill be joined by the sleek Cascada convertible and the sophisticated Insignia VXR performance sedan.

NewHolden chairman and managing director Gerry Dorizas said the announcement of these European-sourced models joining Holden’s portfolio demonstrated that the company would continue to bring the best possible products from GM’s product portfolio to Australasian customers to support a strong future for Holden.

“Holden is one of the strongest brands in Australasia and the introduction of the Astra,Cascada and Insignia to the portfolio in 2015 will be a great addition,” hesaid.

“We are determined to offer New Zealand and Australian customers the best possible products that we can source from our global operations, as we build a strong future forHolden.

“We are focussed on the long-term fundamentals, such as ensuring Holden retains its proudAustralasian identity and provides customers with the best possible cars.

“It’s critical we focus on consumer and market-driven product strategies that enable globalscale while engaging customers at a local-market level.The Astra, Cascada and Insignia areproof positive of our strategy.”

Hesaid the commitment to performance and quality, evident in the threeEurope-sourced models, aligns with Holden’s heritage and brand.

“Astra, Cascada and Insignia will be niche vehicles in terms of volume for our company, and their performance credentials and premium execution are a perfect match for Holden and willprovide yet more fantastic choice for our customers,” he added.

“We are building a strong future for Holden by focusing on our customers, our dealers, ouremployees and our products.”

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