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Two gifts for HSV's 20th birthday


HSV is always one to celebrate the milestones and after 20 years in Australia since the launch of its first Walkinshaw Commodore, HSV Managing Director Scott Grant today unveiled two models that evolve not just the heritage, but show the continued core of HSV’s business, performance V8s.

With the covers lifted by HRT/HSV V8 Supercar drivers Todd and Rick Kelly, the new Maloo R8 Ute and 20th Anniversary Clubsport R8 continue the bloodline.

“A two-door coupe with a really big boot,” is how Grant echoed HSV’s philosophy of the Maloo and as an integral part of the HSV line-up for 17 years, there is a strong following.

Running the LS2 V8 engine producing 307kW, the Maloo is mechanically much the same as the VE Clubsport sedan.

AP Racing four-piston callipers are fitted to the front, while a Walkinshaw-inspired sideskirt is part of the external package that includes a moulded composite tailgate with parking sensors and a hard tonneau with a new remote release on the keyfob.

A $3750 performance pack is also available consisting of full leather GTS-style seats and 20-inch alloys.

Grant added: “Maloo’s striking visual appearance, performance characteristics and range of luxury appointments will make this Ute just as comfortable and distinctive on a dirt track or cruising around the inner city streets.”

HSV’s John Clark explained; “We began working on the all new Maloo Ute at about the same stage as the E series sedan, with the aim of building on the dynamics of the sedan.

“The comprehensive testing program we undertook around Australia and in New Zealand and Sweden, has resulted in the complete driving package.”

The Maloo R8 will retail from $59,990 with auto an extra $2000.

 

Clubsport R8

The second big release at the Australian International Motor Show is the very fitting for the 20th Anniversary Clubsport R8.

Built as a limited edition, another proven HSV speciality over the years; the 20th anniversary edition “celebrates the heritage of the luxury and performance car company.” Taking elements from HSV’s range-topping GTS, the limited edition Clubbie is unique but restrained.

Grant added; “The birth of HSV and the reveal of the very first VL Group A SS Commodore commonly referred to as the ‘Walkinshaw;’ took place at the 1987 Sydney Motor Show. From those humble beginnings, HSV has gone on to produce over 55,000 vehicles and dominate the world of Motorsport."

“It is only fitting that today we unveil a limited edition model to commemorate the company’s 20th Anniversary,” he said. The 20th Anniversary Clubsport R8 is limited to a run of just 100, with a number of unique features including a unique sandstorm colour, though it could have also been called champagne.

Special anniversary sill plates and black GTS accenting with leather performance seats and 20th anniversary logos.

Chrome shadow wheels and black and gold finished brake callipers round out the bespoke changes.

The HSV Clubsport R8 20th Anniversary; to give its full title; retains the 307kW LS2 V8 engine, performance brake package and aggressive HSV styling that has contributed to the company current sales success.

The 20th Anniversary Clubsport R8 is priced from $65,990, a $3100 premium over the regular R8.

Check out the Maloo R8 on video at the Australian International Motor Show

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