General's new order: this is the first look at GM Holden's new Korean-made Viva
Done Daewoo Deal
Paul Gover
17jun05
The Daewoo deal is done. A new-age Barina and price-driven Astra will soon be on ships from South Korea to put extra value into GM Holden's small-car line-up.
The move will cut some of the company's reliance on high-cost Opel compacts and give Holden more say on everything from styling and performance to ride and handling.
The Daewoo deal has been an open secret almost from the time GM Holden decided to withdraw the Korean brand from Australia last year and details were confirmed in Seoul this week by Holden president Denny Mooney.
"It's a value decision. We think we can get products from here with more value versus Europe," Mooney says.
"It's advantageous for us. We have more influence on the products than the ones from Europe."
The newcomers will be called the TK Barina and the JF Viva. The latter will sit between the Barina and latest Astra and replace the Astra Classic.
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Mooney denies the company has been cynical in killing GM Daewoo in Australia and bringing back Daewoo cars as part of the Holden line-up. He says it is part of a long-term link that will supply a range of South Korean vehicles.
"The brand just didn't have the strength to survive," he says.
"There is nothing wrong with the product. The chassis on these vehicles are our chassis, we have input on the styling, and we're also doing powertrains."
The move comes as Holden forges closer ties with Asia, including supplying 4000 Statesmans to China for sale as Buick Royaums.
Mooney is a member of the GM Daewoo board and supports the company's export drive, which takes it to more than 150 countries under badges such as Chevrolet, Buick and Pontiac.
The TK Barina will be available as a three and five-door hatch, and the JF Viva will be sold as a four-door sedan, five-door hatch and five-door wagon. Pricing and final specifications are yet to be revealed.
Herald Sun
At least Ford has kept faith with FIESTA and FOCUS.
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