Holden Statesman 2004 Review

Basically a long-wheel-based Commodore with loads of extras, it has proven a winning formula for Holden, easily outselling Ford's equivalent model, the Fairlane.

Available as a sedan only, the series ll VS Statesman range was offered in a choice of two equipment levels the Statesman or the more up-market Caprice which included a lot more standard equipment.

There was also a limited edition version called the International that included leather trim, power sunroof and self-levelling suspension.

Mechanically, the big news with the series ll was the availability of a supercharger for the 3.8L V6 engine, producing 22 per cent more power and 12 per cent more torque than the standard V6.

As well as the naturally aspirated V6 and supercharged V6, buyers also had the option of a 5L V8. All were mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

In normally aspirated form, the 3.8L V6 is an impressively smooth, responsive performer, and the supercharger boosts this to deliver even stronger performance. In NRMA's tests the supercharged version outperformed the V8 from a standing start to 80km/h and 100km/h.

Behind the wheel the Statesman impresses with its combination of strong, effortless performance, excel- lent space and comfort, and high levels of luxury.

There's ample stretch-out space, both front and rear even with the front seats all the way back and the boot is equally large with a porthole to poke long items through.

Equipment levels are high with standard equipment including an eight-speaker sound system with 10-stack CD player, climate control airconditioning, cruise control, trip computer, adjustable steering wheel, power windows and mirrors, and remote central- locking.

Safety features included driver and passenger airbags and anti-lock brakes.

Unexpectedly, fuel consumption by the super- charged V6 was only slightly heavier than from the standard model and buyers can expect a well- maintained supercharged V6 to use about 16.1L/100km in the city and 12.2L/100km in the country. The supercharged V6 requires the higher- octane premium unleaded fuel.

You can expect to pay around $11,000 privately for a Series I, 1996 standard V6 and $17,750 from a dealer for a Series III, 1998 V8 or supercharged V6.

This is a good choice for those buyers wanting a big vehicle and possibly planning to make a lot of long journeys. As the vehicle is locally manufactured, parts are relatively easy to get hold of and reasonably priced.

Pay attention to oil leaks from the engine, transmission and power steering.

Check that the transmission changes properly with no delay and that all the electrical equipment operates satisfactorily.

Recalls included problems with battery vapour, transmission fluid overheating when towing, and transmission cooler hoses.