More Koreans in Holden?s line-up

The Epica becomes the fourth Korean-sourced product after the Barina, Viva and Captiva to join the local range.

It is essentially a replacement for the Opel-built Vectra that was imported from Europe.

The Epica will come with a choice of two in-line six-cylinder engines — a 2-litre or 2.5-litre CDX and CDXi.

It comes from the General Motors plant in Bupyong in South Korea but extensive development was undertaken at Holden's Lang Lang proving ground outside Melbourne to tune its suspension for Australian conditions.

While these highlight the arrival of Holden's first fresh product for 2007, the Melbourne-based manufacturer is also using the Brisbane show to launch a new Rodeo variant.

The current Rodeo, which was launched at the Brisbane show a few seasons ago, will welcome a new turbo diesel powerplant.

The 3-litre common-rail unit produces 120kW and is said to be the most powerful oil-burner to date in the Rodeo line-up.

Another sure to attract its fair share of admirers is the Astra TwinTop, Holden's replacement for the convertible soft-top Astra.

Following the trend set these days by the Europeans, Holden has moved to a metal folding top for the convertible Astra.

It will share the limelight with the BMW 3-series convertible which makes its Australian debut in Brisbane less than two weeks after its international press launch in the United States.

The Astra's metal roof, electronically controlled, takes 30 seconds to tuck away while the E93 model 3-series takes only 22 seconds.

Holden says the new diesel Rodeo develops 25 per cent more peak power at lower revs and the new powerplant meets Euro 4 emissions standards.

Along with the new oil burning engine there have been a few nips and tucks to its exterior with reworked front and rear fascias, a meaner induction bonnet scoop and updated fender flares.

A comprehensive range of Holden's award-winning VE Commodores will dominate the stand including a cutaway display of the VE Calais V8 which won the CARSguide Car Of The Year in 2006.