Holden Adventra LX8 2004 review

The all-wheel drive version of the Commodore wagon has copped a serve for its lack of off road ability and "excessive" fuel consumption.

While it is as guilty as sin on both counts the Adventra is still a very likeable, knockabout kind of a vehicle – it just depends what you're looking for?

We clocked up 1500km behind the wheel of a top of the line LX8 and it might fly in the face of popular opinion, but we reckon it's a good thing – although there is obviously room for improvement.

Explore the 2004 Holden Adventra range

• Holden Adventra 2004 review
• Holden Adventra LX8 2004 review

The Adventra has strong road presence, sitting higher than your average Commodore with large wheels, plenty of cladding and flared wheel arches. Twin tailpipes and the note from the big V8 command attention.

It's Commodore comfy inside, with big plush leather seats that in the LX8 are a lift from the SS wagon. Plenty of room in the back for the kids, with a seven seat option..

The LX8 is fitted out to Calais specs with green lit instrumentation and knobs are all easy to find and use. Pajero style roll and incline meters are an interesting addition.

Plenty of room for luggage, especially with the cargo barrier fitted, although extra storage bins either side in the back eat into the load space.

Rear glass opens separately which is handy for shopping but a good way of filling the back with dust or rainwater.

The big 5.7-litre V8 churns out 235kW of power and 460Nm of torque, more than enough oomph for any occasion. Towing is a breeze although maximum weight is limited to 2100kg.

 

Four-speed auto is standard and maybe it is just us but we found the shift action awkward to use.

Initial reports from the trip computer showed a scary 20 plus litres per 100km, but with steady driving we managed to get this down to 16L/100km which is on par with any large 4WD – and this is a large 4WD.

The Cross-Trac all wheel drive system distributes torque permanently in a 38-62 split between the front and rear wheels and provides good stability on dirt roads.

Performance is strong but it is not as responsive as an ordinary Holden V8 sedan or wagon, bearing in mind that the vehicle weighs in at almost 2 tonnes.

We gave the Adventra a good workout on a variety of sealed and unsealed country roads, as well as rougher dirt tracks and water crossings. It is no rock hopper but it will go any where the average owner is likely to venture.

Having said this steep descents require constant braking and the suspension is prone to bottoming out when the going gets rough.

Lots of goodies including driver, passenger and side airbags, six disc CD player, climate control air and rear park assist. The LX8 priced at $60,990 adds sunroof, leather trim and premium audio system.