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Holden Trax getting set for testing here

Eagled-eyed car enthusiasts may see a number of test cars on Australian roads in the near future.

The Holden will arrive in 2013 after it makes its debut at the Paris motor show in September.

Trax wears other names in other countries including the Buick Encore and Opel Mokka. With room for five passengers, and available in two and all-wheel drive form, Trax is a global car that will be sold in more than 140 markets around the world.

Eagled-eyed car enthusiasts may see a number of test cars on Australian roads in the near future as Holden engineers complete development work on the global program. Holden Director of Powertrain Engineering, Simon Cassin said Holden's engineering know-how had been called upon to work on this important model.

"We are working closely with the homeroom on global calibration work and of course making further refinements to ensure Trax will be well suited to Australian roads and conditions when it arrives next year," he said.

The global Chevrolet version of Trax is set to make its official debut at the Paris Motor Show in September 2012. Ironically, however, the car will not be sold in the United States because it could undermine sales of the Chevvy Equinox.

Holden has four engines to choose from with this model, along with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. In Europe, cars with a manual transmission will be equipped with the fuel saving start/stop system.

They will also be equipped with many other sophisticated features. It is not known whether our version will include any of these technologies (probably not). Holden has four engines from which to choose but the decision is likely to mirror the Cruze hatch and sedan that features the same drivetrain.

There's a 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated engine with 85kW of power and 155Nm torque, a naturally-aspirated 1.8-litre with 103kW and 175Nm and a 1.4-litre turbo with 103kW and 200Nm. There's also a 1.7-litre turbo diesel available with 96kW and 300Nm of torque.

In Europe the new model introduces new state-of-the-art technologies to the segment, such as a string of Driver Assistance Systems based on the Opel Eye front camera system, as well as a rear view camera. It gives the driver access to several functions including Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and the second generation of Traffic Sign Recognition system (TSR II) which now recognises even more EU and non-EU traffic signs including rectangular signs and dynamic LED displays.

Parking is made easier with further optional kit that includes a rear view camera and park assist sensors for the front and rear. Additionally, the loading capacity of the car can be complimented with the new generation FlexFix rear bicycle carrier. The user-friendly carrier is fully integrated in the rear, functions like a drawer and can accommodate up to three bicycles at a time.

More details will be released closer to launch.