Faults:
Now having had the car for over 2 years, I have come across a few little issues. Nothing drastic though.
1. The windows get a bit loose and squeaky, which only needs a bit of under warranty TLC from your Holden dealer and you are right as rain.
2. The suspension squeaks a little bit over big bumps. But there is nothing mechanically wrong with the car, I had this confirmed on two separate occasions.
General Comments:
The car has been sensational. It is a very tight piece of German engineering. That's what you have to remember, it is an Opel sourced little ruddigore, not some Korean junk like the present model. If you have the option of buying the old style XC Barina versus the newer Korean TK, go for the German model. Whilst it looks a little blander in appearance, you will thank yourself endlessly.
Most importantly, the XC Barina (my car) has a 4 star NCAP rating (very good), was Wheels Car of the Year in the light segment, and sits very tight on the road, especially with the nifty sports rims that I slapped on it from Holden. These alloy wheels are the same world round, just with the difference of the badging. Also, heaps of cool little gadgets which you would expect on a higher spec vehicle.
The new TK boasts a petty 2 star NCAP rating, a less bland (but cheaper) looking interior, and a few extra gadgets which all look cheap. To be honest, if not a little biased, the TK is old hat junk. It has an outdated engine, body, and drive. 2006-2007 Holden TK Barina = 2003-2004 Kalos.
If you research both cars you will usually find that a used XC Barina is more expensive than a TK, even though it is older. This is for a very good reason, and if you can afford the extra 550-1000 bucks for the difference, you will pat yourself on the back if you either like cars, or if you end up in an accident, because if you are in the TK you will probably be mortally wounded. If you're in the XC, you'll either laugh and wonder how much harder you can push the little sucker next time, or thank those crafty germans for all their years of mechanical expertise and safety records.
