The Holden Malibu will arrive in Australia for the first time in 2012 with a range of four cylinder engines, effectively replacing the unpopular Epica, a badge-engineered version of the South Korean Daewoo Tosca, which itself had taken the place of the Vectra.
“The Malibu will play an important role within the Holden line-up, providing a spacious and efficient four-cylinder alternative for Australian customers,” said Holden Chairman and Managing Director Mike Devereux.
The Holden official added that the new Malibu will fit between the compact-sized Cruze Series II, which is now manufactured in Australia for the local market, and the larger Commodore.
“[The] Malibu will bridge the gap between our incredibly successful Cruze small car and Australia’s favourite car, the best-selling Commodore. It will be a standout on the road, with striking styling in the same vein as recent additions to the GM portfolio, including the new-generation Barina and Cruze hatch. Like the Holden Cruze, Malibu will surprise customers with its array of clever technologies and features,” Devereux added.
The styling changes over the Chevrolet-badged Malibu are expected to be limited to a Holden-specific grille and possibly, some other minor details too.
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