Holden + HSV dynamic design across range

...  the premium long-wheelbase Holden WM Caprice has received its own bespoke Series II upgrades.  Better value, higher specification levels, lower entry price points, greater relevance to younger buyers and a new naming convention are the highlights.

To help attract a younger audience, the Statesman name has been retired, and the two entrants in the range have been renamed. The entry-level model is now the Caprice, while the range-topping variant is called the Caprice V-Series.

An advanced new Holden iQ infotainment system provides a touch-screen interface that facilitates control of the car audio, satellite navigation (with traffic alerts and lifetime map upgrades), Bluetooth telephone system and rear view camera, all of which are standard.

The Holden iQ’s inbuilt audio options are extensive: a virtual CD collection, full iPod emulation, a USB flash drive and even Bluetooth music streaming are all standard. And unlike some other brands that require an accessory cable containing the firmware for full iPod connectivity, the Holden iQ system has the Apple hardware-emulating chipset inbuilt as standard equipment.

The step up to Caprice V-Series is significant. You get the awesome punch of Holden’s Generation IV 6.0-litre V8 – 260kW at 5700rpm and 515Nm at 4400rpm, thanks very much – as well as this engine’s latest upgrade to flex-fuel capability, which allows it to sip ethanol-blended fuels up to and including E85.

The engine also features Holden’s AFM cylinder deactivation system for fuel saving at low loads and highway cruising speeds.
Caprice V-Series also includes a standard sunroof, full Nappa leather trim, dual-screen rear DVD (which also plays through the front touch-screen when the car is stationary), a Bose premium sound system and tri-zone climate control air conditioning.

And the price? The new Caprice is $61,990, which is actually a reduction of $2000 compared with the outgoing Statesman V6, despite the significant equipment upgrade, and the Caprice V-Series is $69,990 – that’s $5500 cheaper than the former Caprice V8.

The Australian International Motor Show in Sydney is also the ideal place to check out the recent range revisions from Holden Special Vehicles in the form of the new E Series 3.  Leading the highlights list are three new HSV technologies. HSV’s new Enhanced Driver Interface (EDI) streams vehicle performance data directly to the new touch-screen display, while Liquid Propane Injection (LPI) is the first system of its kind on an Australian production car, and is available as an option on all models, except for the Clubsport R8 Tourer.

Finally, the new Side Blind Zone Alert (SBZA) is available as an option on every model in the E3 range, and is standard on Grange.  HSV has also added a significant set of interior updates to the E Series 3, including a new ‘Oracle’ dash, a new model-specific stainless steel ID plate on the centre console, new twin-stitch seat trims on GTS and Senator Signature, as well as a new leather colour: Turismo Rosso. There are also new binnacle gauges on offer, and piano black trim on the centre console and steering wheel.

The final standout aspect of the E Series 3 range is a raft of new standard features being offered on all HSV models including an Enhanced Driver Interface (EDI), a reversing camera with rear park assist, satellite navigation and touch-screen audio with iPod connectivity.

HSV will also announce a special Limited Edition 20 Years of Maloo R8 to celebrate the 20th birthday of the Aussie ute icon.  Since its launch at the Sydney Motor Show in October 1990, the HSV Maloo nameplate has been synonymous with innovation, pioneering the ute segment with airbags, ABS brakes, performance braking systems, climate control air conditioning, traction control and electronic stability control.

Limited to just 100 units, 20 Years of Maloo R8 is a celebration of the iconic Aussie performance ute with an all-round package delivering an exclusive blend of design, performance, and technology.  It includes unique ‘Vector’ E-vents and hood scoops, spectacular 20-inch wheels in black highlight, as seen on GTS, HSV’s bi-modal exhaust system, the new Enhanced Driver Interface (EDI) and SBZA systems, rear park assist with reversing camera and sat-nav.

The 20 Years of Maloo R8 is packed with new features and is a fitting tribute to this iconic nameplate. With its mix of performance, looks, and technology it is sure to become one of the most sought after Maloos in history.

Prices start at $67,900, and the 20 Years of Maloo R8 will sit proudly on the HSV stand, shortly after its first public unveiling at the Deni Ute Muster earlier this month.