New Holden Spark aimed at millennials

Holden's new Spark is aimed squarely at the Millennial generation – the 20-something female buyer who is rarely without her phone #newcarhunting.

So it makes sense that the Korean-made city-car is all about good looks, connectivity and – in a first for Holden -- individuality. Yes, there’s the option to customise your Spark.

“Personalisation is absolutely what it’s all about… when it comes to target markets. Customisation is so important to this segment," says Geraldine Davys, Executive Director of Marketing at GM Holden.

Making these vehicles accessible to the target market is also key. As such, a suite of pop-up showrooms will be found in major Australian cities.

With the lure of free ice-cream and a no-pressure atmosphere, Holden hopes to engage with these young female drivers on a more level playing ground, so to speak -- #marketitrightandtheywillcome.

On sale from April in two model variants powered by the same engine matched to manual and automatic transmissions, the Spark come with a new 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 73kW and 128Nm.

The entry level LS model is available with the choice of a five-speed manual transmission or CVT automatic, while the top-spec LT is fitted exclusively with a CVT.

Pricing is $13,990 for the entry-level LS manual, $15,690 for the LS automatic and $18,990 the range-topping LT (plus on road costs).

That makes the Spark more expensive than its the key competition in the micro-car segment, including the Mitsubishi Mirage (from $11,990), Suzuki Celerio ($12,990 drive away) and Nissan Micra (from $13,490) -- #toughgig.

But it offers generous kit as standard. The entry-level LS includes satellite-navigation, 14-inch steel wheels, steering wheel audio controls, Holden MyLink infotainment with 7.0-inch colour touch-screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technology, USB connectivity, Siri Eyes Free and smartphone voice recognition.

The top-spec LT gets additional kit in the form of 15-inch alloys, keyless entry/start, leather-wrapped steering wheel, Jet Black Sportec seat trim, rear parking sensors, reversing camera and cruise control.

An optional driver assistance package will be made available from June, which will allow LS drivers to upgrade with a rear park assist, rear-view camera and cruise control.

Built on a new high-strength steel platform, the Spark’s safety features include six airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking and hill-start assist, but it's yet to receive a crash test rating.

Manufacturer’s claimed average fuel consumption is 5.2L/100km for the manual and 5.5L/100km for CVT on the combined cycle.

Will it hit the spot with young females as intended? #onlytimewilltell.