Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) was the officially designated
performance vehicle {{Unreferenced, date=June 2019, bot=noref (GreenC bot)
A performance car is a car that exhibits above-average capabilities in one or more of the following areas: acceleration, top speed, cornering and braking. It is debated how much performance is ...
division for
Holden
Holden, formerly known as General Motors-Holden, was an Australian subsidiary company of General Motors. It was an Australian automobile manufacturer, importer, and exporter which sold cars under its own marque in Australia. In its last thre ...
. Established in 1987 and based in
Clayton, Victoria
Clayton is a suburb in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 18 km south-east of Melbourne's Central Business District,[Commodore
Commodore may refer to:
Ranks
* Commodore (rank), a naval rank
** Commodore (Royal Navy), in the United Kingdom
** Commodore (United States)
** Commodore (Canada)
** Commodore (Finland)
** Commodore (Germany) or ''Kommodore''
* Air commodore, a ...]
, long wheelbase
Caprice
Caprice, from the Italian ''capriccio'', may refer to:
Art and entertainment
* ''Caprice'' (1913 film), a film starring Mary Pickford
* ''Caprices'' (film), a 1942 French comedy film
* ''Caprice'' (1967 film), a film starring Richard Harris ...
and Statesman, and commercial
Ute
Ute or UTE may refer to:
* Ute (band), an Australian jazz group
* Ute (given name)
* ''Ute'' (sponge), a sponge genus
* Ute (vehicle), an Australian and New Zealand term for certain utility vehicles
* Ute, Iowa, a city in Monona County along ...
for domestic and export sale. HSV also modified other non-Holden cars within the
General Motors
The General Motors Company (GM) is an American Multinational corporation, multinational Automotive industry, automotive manufacturing company headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, United States. It is the largest automaker in the United States and ...
lineup in low volumes.
Vehicles produced by Holden Special Vehicles have generally been marketed under the HSV brand name. However, in the early years, some retailed under the Holden brand in Australia whereas most cars for export (other than in New Zealand and Singapore) retailed under different names (namely, Vauxhall and Chevrolet Special Vehicles).
History
Holden and
Tom Walkinshaw Racing
Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) was a motor racing team and engineering firm founded in 1976, in Kidlington, near Oxford, England, by touring car racer Tom Walkinshaw.
The company initially handled privateer work before entering works touring car r ...
– an operation owned by Scottish
racing-car driver and entrepreneur
Tom Walkinshaw
Thomas Dobbie Thomson Walkinshaw (14 August 1946 – 12 December 2010) was a British racing car driver from Scotland and the founder of the racing team Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR). He was also involved in professional rugby union, as owner of ...
– established Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) as a joint venture in 1987. HSV effectively replaced the
Holden Dealer Team
The Holden Dealer Team (HDT) was Holden's semi-official racing team from 1969 until 1986, primarily contesting Australian Touring Car events but also rallying, rallycross and Sports Sedan races during the 1970s. From 1980 the Holden Dealer ...
(HDT) special-vehicles operation run by
Peter Brock
Peter Geoffrey Brock (26 February 1945 – 8 September 2006), known as "Peter Perfect", "The King of the Mountain", or simply "Brocky", was an Australian motor racing driver. Brock was most often associated with Holden for almost 40 years, al ...
, after Holden severed its ties with HDT in February 1987 following the
Energy Polarizer and "HDT Director" controversies.
Since 1987 HSV has built an array of modified vehicles, most of which have been based on Holden models powered by either
Holden
Holden, formerly known as General Motors-Holden, was an Australian subsidiary company of General Motors. It was an Australian automobile manufacturer, importer, and exporter which sold cars under its own marque in Australia. In its last thre ...
or
GM sourced
V8 engine
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder piston engine in which two banks of four cylinders share a common crankshaft and are arranged in a V configuration.
The first V8 engine was produced by the French Antoinette company in 1904, developed and us ...
s.
The first car developed by HSV was the
Holden VL Commodore SS Group A SV
The Holden Commodore (VL) is a mid-size car that was produced by Holden from 1986 to 1988. It was the final iteration of the first generation of the Holden Commodore and included the luxury variant, Holden Calais (VL). Between February 1986 and ...
of 1988, which was badged and sold by Holden for
Group A
Group A is a set of motorsport regulations administered by the FIA covering production derived vehicles intended for competition, usually in touring car racing and rallying. In contrast to the short-lived Group B and Group C, Group A vehicles w ...
touring car racing
Touring car racing is a motorsport road racing competition with heavily modified road-going cars. It has both similarities to and significant differences from stock car racing, which is popular in the United States.
While the cars do not move ...
homologation
Homologation (Greek ''homologeo'', ὁμολογέω, "to agree") is the granting of approval by an official authority. This may be a court of law, a government department, or an academic or professional body, any of which would normally work fr ...
purposes. It went on to win the 1990
Bathurst 1000
The Bathurst 1000 (formally known as the Repco Bathurst 1000) is a touring car race held annually on the Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia. It is currently run as part of the Supercars Championship, the most recen ...
race. The first car developed, badged and sold as an HSV was the SV88.
HSV began converting (re-manufacturing) the
Chevrolet Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro is a mid-size American automobile manufactured by Chevrolet, classified as a pony car. It first went on sale on September 29, 1966, for the 1967 model year and was designed to compete with the Ford Mustang. The Camaro share ...
2SS coupe and Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD pick-up truck from left-hand-drive to right-hand-drive to GM's factory standards in mid-2018. The vehicles were sold with a factory warranty via the existing HSV-Holden dealership network. To cope with the expansion, HSV moved into a new premises, also in Clayton, in early 2018. It boosted job numbers from 130 to 150 staff in order to cope with production ramping up.
With GM discontinuing Holden in 2021, a newly formed GM subsidiary,
General Motors Specialty Vehicles
The General Motors Company (GM) is an American Multinational corporation, multinational Automotive industry, automotive manufacturing company headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, United States. It is the largest automaker in the United States and ...
(GMSV), imports and distributes the Silverado in the
Australasia
Australasia is a region that comprises Australia, New Zealand and some neighbouring islands in the Pacific Ocean. The term is used in a number of different contexts, including geopolitically, physiogeographically, philologically, and ecologica ...
region beginning in November 2020. GMSV handles the distribution of key Chevrolet vehicles. Walkinshaw Group, the parent company of HSV, continues to re-manufacture the Silverado 1500 on behalf of GMSV.
Nameplates
The following is an alphabetical listing of the most notable and popular nameplates used by HSV.
; Avalanche
The HSV Avalanche is an
all-wheel drive
An all-wheel drive vehicle (AWD vehicle) is one with a powertrain capable of providing power to all its wheels, whether full-time or on-demand.
The most common forms of all-wheel drive are:
;1x1 : All unicycles Reflecting one axle with one w ...
crossover SUV
A crossover, crossover SUV, or crossover utility vehicle (CUV) is a type of automobile with an increased ride height that is built on unibody chassis construction shared with passenger cars, as opposed to traditional sport utility vehicles (S ...
that was produced from 2003 to 2005. Based on the
Holden Adventra
Holden, formerly known as General Motors-Holden, was an Australian subsidiary company of General Motors. It was an Australian automobile manufacturer, importer, and exporter which sold cars under its own marque in Australia. In its last thre ...
LX8 crossover wagon, the Avalanche range also incorporated a dual-cab
utility
As a topic of economics, utility is used to model worth or value. Its usage has evolved significantly over time. The term was introduced initially as a measure of pleasure or happiness as part of the theory of utilitarianism by moral philosopher ...
model known as the Avalanche XUV, derived from the
Holden Crewman
Holden, formerly known as General Motors-Holden, was an Australian subsidiary company of General Motors. It was an Australian automobile manufacturer, importer, and exporter which sold cars under its own marque in Australia. In its last three ...
Cross8. The Avalanche has been built over the following series:
*
VY (2003–2005)
*
VZ (2005)
; ClubSport
The
HSV ClubSport
The Holden Special Vehicles ClubSport, HSV ClubSport or “Clubby” is a Performance modified Full-Sized Sedan (and later, also station wagon) produced by Holden’s in-house tuning company Holden Special Vehicles based on the Holden Commodore
...
or Clubsport is a
full size sports sedan
A sports sedan (also known as sports saloon in British English) is a subjective term for a sedan car that is designed to have sporting performance or handling characteristics.
History
The term was originally introduced in the 1930s an ...
that has represented the brand's highest volume seller since its introduction in 1990. It was based on the mainstream Commodore range and has been the entry-level HSV model except between 1995 and 1998, when that role was filled by the Manta range. In 1999, HSV introduced a higher specification known as the "R8". The Clubsport has been built over the following series:
*
VN (1990–1991)
*
VP (1991–1993)
*
VR (1993–1995)
*
VS (1995–1997)
*
VT (1997–2000)
*
VX (2000–2002)
*
VY (2002–2004)
*
VZ (2004–2006)
*
VE (2006–2013)
*
VF (2013–2017)
; Coupé
The HSV Coupé is a high performance
grand tourer
A grand tourer (GT) is a type of car that is designed for high speed and long-distance driving, due to a combination of performance and luxury attributes. The most common format is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive two-door coupé with either ...
that was produced from 2001 to 2006. It was based on the
Holden Monaro
The Holden Monaro ( ) is a rear-wheel drive coupé manufactured by General Motors Holden in Australia from 1968 to 1975 and later reintroduced from 2001 to 2005. It was also manufactured as a 4-door sedan from 1973 to 1977.
Three generations of ...
, the Coupé adaptation of the
third generation Third generation may refer to:
* ''Third Generation'' (album), a 1982 album by Hiroshima
* ''The Third Generation'' (1920 film), an American drama film directed by Henry Kolker
* ''The Third Generation'' (1979 film), a West German black comedy b ...
Holden Commodore. Its standard model range included the GTO and GTS. In 2004, the GTS was discontinued and the all-wheel drive Coupé4 introduced. Limited edition models included the GTO LE (2003 and 2006) and GTO Signature (2006). The Coupé has been built over the following series:
* VX (2001–2002)
* VX Series II (2002–2004)
* VZ (2004–2006)
; Grange
The HSV Grange is a
full size luxury
Luxury may refer to:
* Luxury goods, an economic good or service for which demand increases more than proportionally as income rises
*Luxury tax, tax on products not considered essential, such as expensive cars
**Luxury tax (sports), surcharge pu ...
sedan and it was based on the luxury Holden Statesman and Caprice twins. The Grange has represented the HSV brand's most top-of-the-line, luxury offering to date. Since 1997, this nameplate has replaced both the HSV Statesman and Caprice models. The Grange has been built over the following series:
*
VS (1997–1999)
*
WH (1999–2003)
*
VY (2003–2004)
*
VZ (2004–2006)
*
VE (2006–2013)
*
VF (2013–2016)
; GTS
The
HSV GTS is a
full size high performance sedan that was based on the mainstream Commodore range. Excluding the special V6-engined editions sold in New Zealand in the VN and VP series, the proper and original V8-engined GTS was introduced in Australia in 1992 with the VP series. The GTS has represented the HSV brand's most powerful offering to date. With the exception of the Z Series, when it was not part of the range, the GTS has been built over the following series:
* In 1990, HSV built special V6-engined GTS models for New Zealand in the VN and VP series.
*
VP (1991–1993)
*
VR (1993–1995)
*
VS (1995–1997)
*
VT (1997–2000)
*
VX (2000–2002)
*
VY (2002–2004)
*
VE (2006–2013)
*
VF (2013–2017)
; Maloo
The HSV Maloo is a performance utility that has been produced since 1990 and was based on the Holden Ute. Its distinguishing features have been high-performance
V8 engine
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder piston engine in which two banks of four cylinders share a common crankshaft and are arranged in a V configuration.
The first V8 engine was produced by the French Antoinette company in 1904, developed and us ...
s and full
body kit
A body kit or bodykit is a set of modified body parts or additional components that install on a stock car. Typically composed of front and rear bumpers, side skirts, spoilers, bonnets (bonnet scoop), and sometimes front and rear side guar ...
s. The name "Maloo" means "
thunder
Thunder is the sound caused by lightning. Depending upon the distance from and nature of the lightning, it can range from a long, low rumble to a sudden, loud crack. The sudden increase in temperature and hence pressure caused by the lightning pr ...
" in an
Aboriginal language. It is said that former HSV managing director, John Crennan, coined the name for the vehicle after reading a book on
Aboriginal Australians
Aboriginal Australians are the various Indigenous peoples of the Australian mainland and many of its islands, such as Tasmania, Fraser Island, Hinchinbrook Island, the Tiwi Islands, and Groote Eylandt, but excluding the Torres Strait Islands ...
.
In 2001, HSV introduced a higher "R8" specification. In June 2006, a regular production Z Series Maloo R8 broke the record for the world's fastest production performance pickup, at 271 km/h, (168 mph) beating the previous record holder, a
Dodge Ram SRT-10
The Dodge Ram SRT-10 is a sport pickup truck that was produced by American automaker Dodge in limited numbers. It was introduced at the January 2002 North American International Auto Show, but was not put into production until 2004.
Development
...
by 22 km/h.
The Maloo has been built over the following series:
*
VG (1990–1991)
*
VP (1991–1993)
*
VR (1993–1995)
*
VS (1995–2000)
*
VU (2000–2002)
*
VY (2002–2004)
*
VZ (2004–2007)
*
VE (2007–2013)
*
VF (2013–2017)
The most powerful and developed version was the Gen-F 430 kW GTS Maloo, which was launched in November 2014. It featured GTS sedan mechanicals except for the ''
Magnetic Ride Control
MagneRide is an automotive adaptive suspension with magnetorheological damper system developed by the Delphi Automotive corporation, during a period when the company was a subsidiary of General Motors (GM), that uses magnetically controlled damper ...
'' suspension setup that, due to limited development opportunities, HSV left exclusively for the GTS sedan, Senator Signature and Grange. This Maloo was originally limited to 165 units, later increased to 250 plus 10 for export to New Zealand.
; Senator
The HSV/Opel Senator is a full size luxury sports sedan that was first introduced in 1992. It was based on the Holden Berlina and Calais twins. From 1997, HSV offered a wagon variant (based solely on the Berlina, since the Calais was never built in that body shape) and a higher specification model known as the "Senator Signature". The Senator has been built over the following series:
*
VP (1992–1993)
*
VR (1993–1995)
*
VS (1995–1997)
*
VT (1997–2000)
*
VX (2000–2002)
*
VY (2002–2004)
*
VZ (2004–2006)
*
VE (2006–2013)
*
VF (2013–2017)
; SV88
The HSV SV88 was the first car to bear the HSV badge and was designed to compete against
HDT's luxury performance Director model car. The SV88 was launched in 1988 and based on the VL Series luxury Calais.
; W427
The HSV W427 was a limited edition flagship based on the E Series, which was released to celebrate the company's 20th anniversary in 2008. It was also a car produced to address the public disappointment caused by HSV canning its ambitious HRT 427 project previewed in 2002. It was powered by a
LS7 LS7 may refer to:
Vehicles
* General Motors LS7, a small-block V8 gasoline engine
* Hongqi LS7, a 2022–present Chinese full-size luxury SUV
* IM LS7, a 2021 Chinese electric mid-size SUV concept
* Rolladen-Schneider LS7
The Rolladen-Schneide ...
V8 engine
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder piston engine in which two banks of four cylinders share a common crankshaft and are arranged in a V configuration.
The first V8 engine was produced by the French Antoinette company in 1904, developed and us ...
rated at at 6500 rpm and at 5000 rpm of
torque
In physics and mechanics, torque is the rotational equivalent of linear force. It is also referred to as the moment of force (also abbreviated to moment). It represents the capability of a force to produce change in the rotational motion of th ...
.
Holden-based models by series
VL
The Holden VL Commodore SS Group A SV was the first car produced by HSV. Developed under contract to Holden, it was released in March 1988. Modifications were made to the standard Holden 5.0 litre V8 to produce at 5200 rpm and at 4000 rpm. Best known for the polarising body kit and bluish-silver colour, the VL Group A SS was also the first model to feature a fuel-injected version of the Holden V8, with the first
electronic fuel injection
Manifold injection is a mixture formation system for internal combustion engines with external mixture formation. It is commonly used in engines with spark ignition that use petrol as fuel, such as the Otto engine, and the Wankel engine. In a mani ...
(EFI) VN Holden Commodore V8s not released until August 1988. The SV88 model was based on the VL Holden Calais and used a
carburetor
A carburetor (also spelled carburettor) is a device used by an internal combustion engine to control and mix air and fuel entering the engine. The primary method of adding fuel to the intake air is through the venturi tube in the main meteri ...
ed version of the V8 producing .
The range of vehicles for this series included (in chronological order):
*
Commodore SS Group A SV, badged and sold as a Holden for racing homologation purposes
* SV88
* SV F20
VN/VG/VQ
A number of models based on the VN Holden Commodore were developed by HSV, the most potent of which was the Commodore SS Group A SV built for Holden's touring car homologation requirements. It featured an extensively modified version of Holden's 5.0 litre V8 to produce at 5200 rpm and at 4000 rpm coupled to a six-speed
ZF S6-40
manual transmission
A manual transmission (MT), also known as manual gearbox, standard transmission (in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States), or stick shift (in the United States), is a multi-speed motor vehicle transmission (mechanics), transmission ...
as used in the
Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1. Upgrades were also made to the suspension, tyres and brakes. Although a total production of 500 cars was original planned for racing homologation reasons, only 302 were ultimately produced in non-sequential order meaning that build number 450 may exist while build number 100 may not. The VN Group A SS was the last Holden built as a homologation racing special.
Other models used either or versions of the same V8 except the SV3800, which had a
3.8-litre V6. In 1990, the first HSV Maloo was released, based on the VG series
Holden Ute
The Holden Ute was a coupe utility built by Holden, the Australian subsidiary of General Motors, since 2000. Before then, Holden had marketed their Commodore-based utility models under the Holden Utility (VG) and Holden Commodore utility (VP, ...
of the time. The lighter Ute body provided a performance edge over the other HSV sedan counterparts. Models based on the long-wheelbase
Holden VQ Caprice
The Holden Caprice (VQ) and Holden Statesman (VQ) were Holden's top-of-the-line luxury sedans produced between 1990 and 1994. It was the first Statesman to be based on the Commodore line. The rear end was an all-new design, with independent rea ...
were released soon after. The SV90 and SV93 were treated with reworked suspension, wider front track and the V8. The Statesman 5000i (in both series I and II form) featured .
The VN series also spawned HSV V6-engined regional models, which are less known and widely based on Holden Commodore models with HSV add-ons.
The range of vehicles for this series included (in alphabetical order):
* Challenger (special V6 built for Canberra dealers)
*
Clubsport
* DMG90 (special V6 build for Queensland dealers)
* GTS V6 (New Zealand export)
* LS (V6 utility)
* Maloo (V8 utility)
* Statesman 5000i
* Statesman 5000i
* Statesman SV90
* Statesman SV93
* SV LE (sedan and wagon)
* SV89 (based on Berlina)
* SV3800
* SV5000
* SV T-30
* 8-Plus
and
* the
Holden Commodore SS Group A SV, again badged and sold as a Holden for racing homologation purposes.
VP
With the release of the VP series, HSV began introducing
independent rear suspension
Independent suspension is any automobile suspension system that allows each wheel on the same axle to move vertically (i.e. reacting to a bump on the road) independently of the others. This is contrasted with a beam axle or deDion axle system in w ...
(IRS) to its models as well as introducing new model names, Senator and GTS. While the entry-level Clubsport and luxury Senator were equipped with the V8, the high-performance GTS came standard with the version and HSV's premium brake package. A
limited-slip differential
A limited-slip differential (LSD) is a type of differential that allows its two output shafts to rotate at different speeds but limits the maximum difference between the two shafts. Limited-slip differentials are often known by the generic tr ...
was standard across the range.
* Clubsport
* Clubsport 5000i
* Sport Wagon.
* GTS
* Maloo
* Senator
* Senator 5000i
* SV91
* Nitron
* Formula
* HSV+6.
File:1991-93 VP Clubsport.JPG, VP Clubsport
File:1992 Holden VP HSV Commodore GTS Sedan (26173653572).jpg, VP GTS
File:HSV Sport Wagon (41125276612).jpg, Sport Wagon
File:1992-1993 HSV VP Senator sedan 01.jpg, Senator
File:1993 HSV Maloo (VP II) utility (26886664965).jpg, Maloo (VP II)
File:1993 HSV Maloo (VP II) utility (26280929314).jpg, Maloo (VP II)
VR/VS
Following the appointment of award-winning designer
Ian Callum
Ian Stuart Callum (born 30 July 1954) is a Scottish car designer who has worked for Ford, TWR, and Aston Martin. In 1999 he became the Director of Design for Jaguar Cars, later Jaguar Land Rover, a position he held until mid 2019.
In 2019, ...
as design chief for TWR, VR series HSV models benefited from a more cohesive and stylish body design. Upgrades were made to the 5.0 litre V8 to yield , while the GTS included a 5.7-litre stroked version producing 292 PS (215 kW) (also available as an option on the Senator) from May 1994 onwards. The VS series of 1995 introduced mild styling tweaks and a new three-spoke alloy wheel design. A value-oriented Manta was established as the base HSV model to broaden appeal. In 1996, a limited edition flagship GTS-R was created which came standard with the 5.7-litre V8,
Tremec T56 six-speed transmission and "Hydratrak"
limited slip differential
A limited-slip differential (LSD) is a type of differential that allows its two output shafts to rotate at different speeds but limits the maximum difference between the two shafts. Limited-slip differentials are often known by the generic tr ...
(LSD) package. Available only in a polarising bright yellow colour (known as "XU-3 Yellah") with carbon fibre inserts and large rear wing, the GTS-R engine could be
blueprinted for more power. In total, 85 GTS-Rs were produced (10 exported to New Zealand). The VS series II of 1996 introduced HSV's "Integrated Security System" (ISS) as standard, which featured an
immobiliser
An immobiliser or immobilizer is an electronic security device fitted to a motor vehicle that prevents the engine from being started unless the correct key (''transponder'' or ''smart key'') is present. This prevents the vehicle from being " ...
and different electronics configuration for each car produced in an effort to deter theft. In 1996, a new Statesman-based model known as the Grange replaced previous HSV Statesman models.
![HSV VS Grange](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a0/HSV_VS_Grange.JPG)
* Clubsport (wagon available only in the VR Series)
* GTS
* Maloo
* Manta (VS only)
* Senator
* Statesman
* Grange (from the VS Series III of 1996).
VT
This series was based on the all-new Holden VT Commodore range released in August 1997. It was the last series to be powered by Australian-made 5.0 litre V8 (cast iron block) and the 5.7-litre stroker in the GTS. A Senator Signature wagon was introduced and was mechanically identical to the sedan counterpart. The VS ute bodyshell was retained for the Maloo. There were only 180 Manta units produced, after which this model was dropped from production due to its close competition with the donor Commodore SS model.
HSV's VT range included:
* Manta (entry-level)
* Clubsport
* GTS (top performance model)
* Senator Signature (entry luxury model based on Calais)
* Senator Signature wagon
* Grange (top luxury model based on Caprice)
* Maloo (VS series based utility)
* SV99 (limited to only 99 vehicles, all produced between 1999 and 2000)
The range also comprised the XU8, which was built in limited numbers to carry last-ever Australian-made V8 engine.
The VT Series II represented a major update for HSV through the introduction of the new 5.7 litre GENIII
LS1 LS1 may refer to:
* Central Leeds postcode
* GM LS engine
"LS engine" is the colloquial name given to the third and fourth generation small-block V8 gasoline engine used in General Motors' vehicles. The name evolved from the need to differe ...
V8, which saw
''Wheels'' magazine name the GTS as the fastest Holden ever at the time. The Manta and Senator Signature wagon were both dropped from the line-up due to poor sale performance. The flagship GTS presented many unique features such as a
Callaway tuned version of the LS1, a 3.91 final drive ratio and the addition of toe-control links to its IRS design. The recent release of the new WH series
Caprice
Caprice, from the Italian ''capriccio'', may refer to:
Art and entertainment
* ''Caprice'' (1913 film), a film starring Mary Pickford
* ''Caprices'' (film), a 1942 French comedy film
* ''Caprice'' (1967 film), a film starring Richard Harris ...
in 2001 allowed the Grange to gain its new look. This series also saw the introduction of a
supercharged
In an internal combustion engine, a supercharger compresses the intake gas, forcing more air into the engine in order to produce more power for a given displacement.
The current categorisation is that a supercharger is a form of forced induct ...
V6 model named the XU6, which ultimately did not prove successful and was described as being agricultural against new competitors such as the
Magna VR-X, which was rated a superior product in a direct comparison. For the first time, a more performance-oriented Clubsport was launched, known as the Clubsport R8. It came standard with HSV's "Performance" suspension and braking package, which were offered as optional extras on the Clubsport. Again, the Maloo remained available using the VS ute body shell.
HSV's VT Series II range included:
* XU6 (V6 supercharged entry-level)
* Clubsport
* Clubsport R8 (new performance model)
* GTS
* Senator Signature
* Grange
* Maloo.
VX/VU
Acting on feedback from owners, HSV strove to differentiate its range of vehicles from the standard Holden offerings. To achieve this, HSV introduced more distinguishing bodykit and interior designs. This series also saw the LS1 engine output increase by . The introduction of the new VU Holden Ute allowed HSV to produce an all-new Maloo variant. A limited edition Senator 300 model also became available, equipped with the V8 and suspension modifications from the GTS.
The range included:
* XU6
* Clubsport
* Clubsport R8
* Senator Signature
* Senator 300 (top performance luxury model)
* Grange
* GTS
* Maloo (new utility bodyshell).
The VX range saw HSV offer its first Coupé models based on the new
V2 series, in GTO and GTS spec. The latter replaced the GTS sedan but was powered by a less powerful engine. A Maloo R8 model was added with similar upgraded specification to the Clubsport R8. This series saw the addition of the XU6-Maloo, which was essentially a utility version of the XU6 sedan. This model was shortly discontinued due to a lack of demand. The special edition SV300 was introduced to replace the Senator 300. Toe-control links for the rear suspension was now fitted across the range in line with the Holden
VX series update, for improved handling. The VXII update also brought with it the addition of
Microdot
A microdot is text or an image substantially reduced in size to prevent detection by unintended recipients. Microdots are normally circular and around in diameter but can be made into different shapes and sizes and made from various materials su ...
s across the range in order to reduce theft, a feature HSV refers to as ''HSV DNA''.
The range now included:
* XU6
* Clubsport
* Clubsport R8
* Senator Signature
* SV300
* Grange
* Coupé GTO
* Coupé GTS
* Maloo
* Maloo R8
* XU6-Maloo (entry level utility)
Y Series
Coinciding with the release of the
VY Commodore, HSV produced the Y Series models adopting an even more distinguishing design and an alphabetical designation to further distance itself from donor Holden. While the GTS sedan returned (with a recalibrated
ECU increasing power to ), the XU6 was discontinued due to a lack of demand attributed to a perceived lack of extra power relative to Holden's supercharged V6 sedans. The twin kidney grille design first introduced on the VR series Commodore became HSV's new signature grille. Finally, the Senator range was split into entry-level Senator and high-end luxury Senator Signature models.
The range included:
* Clubsport
* Clubsport R8
* GTS
* Senator
* Senator Signature
* Grange
* Coupé GTO
* Coupé GTS
* Maloo
* Maloo R8
* Avalanche (AWD performance wagon)
;Y II Series
This upgraded range is characterised by a significant power increase to . Rumors followed that a new engine was due for release, with the development of GM's new
LS2 nearly complete. This power upgrade closed the performance gap between HSV's mainstream models and the flagship GTS, which prompted speculation that the GTS was set for a power increase as well. An updated WK Statesman/Caprice from Holden also formed the basis for the new Grange. The GTO Coupé returned, and the forays of parent company
Holden
Holden, formerly known as General Motors-Holden, was an Australian subsidiary company of General Motors. It was an Australian automobile manufacturer, importer, and exporter which sold cars under its own marque in Australia. In its last thre ...
into
AWD saw the introduction of the Avalanche (based on the
Holden Adventra
Holden, formerly known as General Motors-Holden, was an Australian subsidiary company of General Motors. It was an Australian automobile manufacturer, importer, and exporter which sold cars under its own marque in Australia. In its last thre ...
), the XUV (based on the
Holden Crewman
Holden, formerly known as General Motors-Holden, was an Australian subsidiary company of General Motors. It was an Australian automobile manufacturer, importer, and exporter which sold cars under its own marque in Australia. In its last three ...
), and the Coupé4 (based on the
Holden Monaro
The Holden Monaro ( ) is a rear-wheel drive coupé manufactured by General Motors Holden in Australia from 1968 to 1975 and later reintroduced from 2001 to 2005. It was also manufactured as a 4-door sedan from 1973 to 1977.
Three generations of ...
). The latter was particularly significant, as it was the first time that
Holden
Holden, formerly known as General Motors-Holden, was an Australian subsidiary company of General Motors. It was an Australian automobile manufacturer, importer, and exporter which sold cars under its own marque in Australia. In its last thre ...
's AWD system had been used in such a low-riding application. These new additions to the range made the Y Series II the biggest HSV range in history, with 16 variants.
The range included:
* Clubsport
* Clubsport R8
* Clubsport SE
* GTS
* Senator
* Senator Signature
* Grange
* Coupé GTO
* Coupé GTS
* Coupé4 (AWD)
* Maloo
* Maloo R8
* Avalanche
*
Avalanche XUV (AWD performance utility)
Z Series
This series of HSVs (released in October 2004) were known as the "Z" Series, reflecting the fact they were based on the VZ-series of the donor
Holden Commodore
The Holden Commodore is a full-size car that was sold by Holden from 1978 to 2020. It was manufactured from 1978 to 2017 in Australia and from 1979 to 1990 in New Zealand, with production of the locally manufactured versions in Australia endin ...
. This saw the introduction, across the range, of the new GM LS2 V8, which generated 297 kW (400 hp). The AWD models retained the less powerful LS1. The lack of a GTS model in this series was attributable to the negligible power difference between the new LS2 models and a potential GTS, sparking rumors that the new
LS7 LS7 may refer to:
Vehicles
* General Motors LS7, a small-block V8 gasoline engine
* Hongqi LS7, a 2022–present Chinese full-size luxury SUV
* IM LS7, a 2021 Chinese electric mid-size SUV concept
* Rolladen-Schneider LS7
The Rolladen-Schneide ...
V8 was going to be used in the next series. In lieu of the GTS, HSV released the SV6000, which was based on the Clubsport and limited to 50 units. A new WL Statesman/Caprice model also resulted in an upgraded Grange.
The Z-series was the first range with which HSV reached the Middle East with the one-make racing ClubSport R sedans,
and it was the last series to be based on the 1997–2006 VT Commodore, which adopted the
V-body.
On 25 May 2006, a standard 2006 HSV Maloo R8 driven by
Mark Skaife
Mark Skaife (born 3 April 1967) is a retired Australian motor racing driver. Skaife is a five-time champion of the V8 Supercar Championship Series, including its predecessor, the Australian Touring Car Championship, as well as a six-time Bath ...
was clocked at an averaged speed of 271.44 km/h (168.7 mph) in the
Woomera,
South Australia
South Australia (commonly abbreviated as SA) is a state in the southern central part of Australia. It covers some of the most arid parts of the country. With a total land area of , it is the fourth-largest of Australia's states and territories ...
. The speed was recognised by the
Guinness World Records
''Guinness World Records'', known from its inception in 1955 until 1999 as ''The Guinness Book of Records'' and in previous United States editions as ''The Guinness Book of World Records'', is a reference book published annually, listing world ...
representative, Chris Sheedy, as the Fastest Production Pickup Truck recorded. The speed improved over the previous record held by a
Dodge Ram SRT-10
The Dodge Ram SRT-10 is a sport pickup truck that was produced by American automaker Dodge in limited numbers. It was introduced at the January 2002 North American International Auto Show, but was not put into production until 2004.
Development
...
at 248.784 km/h (154.587 mph).
A revised range was launched in January 2006, and is designated as the Z Series MY06 (in lieu of the more traditional "Series II" moniker).
The limited edition Signature Coupe was HSV's farewell to the Monaro/GTO as the last two door coupe manufactured in Australia.
The range included:
* Clubsport
* Clubsport R (one-make racing series)
* Clubsport R8
* Clubsport R8 Holden Racing Team (limited edition)
* Clubsport R8 Toll HSV Dealer Team (limited edition)
* SV6000 (limited edition)
* Grange
* Senator
* Senator Skaife Signature (limited edition)
* Coupé GTO
* Coupé4 AWD
* Coupé GTO LE
* Coupé Signature (limited edition)
* Maloo
* Maloo R8
* Maloo R8 15th Anniversary (limited edition)
* Avalanche
* Avalanche XUV
*Crewman ss thunder (gen4 6.0litre)
In addition, in July 2005, HSV released upgraded manual-only Clubsport, Clubsport R8
and Coupé GTO
fitted with optional 2-Stage "Dealer Team Spec" performance packages.
E Series
An all-new Holden Commodore chassis, known as the VE was unveiled in July 2006. Following this, a new range of "E" Series HSV models were released in August 2006.
Changes to the exhaust system yielded a increase in power (see below) for the
LS2 to . Extensive modifications to the base VE Commodore sheetmetal and interior were introduced, most notably the unique
LED
A light-emitting diode (LED) is a semiconductor Electronics, device that Light#Light sources, emits light when Electric current, current flows through it. Electrons in the semiconductor recombine with electron holes, releasing energy i ...
taillights and distinctive side vents. The new
GM 6L80-E 6 speed
automatic transmission
An automatic transmission (sometimes abbreviated to auto or AT) is a multi-speed transmission used in internal combustion engine-based motor vehicles that does not require any input from the driver to change forward gears under normal driving c ...
from the VE Commodore is offered, and
Electronic Stability Control
Electronic stability control (ESC), also referred to as electronic stability program (ESP) or dynamic stability control (DSC), is a computerized technology that improves a vehicle's stability by detecting and reducing loss of traction ( skiddi ...
is standard on all models.
The GTS, Senator Signature and Grange additionally feature switchable ''Magnetic Ride Control'' to improve ride and handling. As such, the E Series represents HSV's most expensive model developments in its history, with the MRC suspension system alone costing
A$4.5 million. In October, a new Grange model based on the
Holden WM Caprice
The WM and WN series Holden Caprice (also marketed as the Holden Statesman) are a line of full-size/executive cars produced by the Australian manufacturer Holden from September 2006 to October 2017, sold primarily in Australia and New Zealand. ...
was released featuring the same V8 and MRC suspension as the Senator Signature and GTS, albeit with its own unique settings.
HSV also released a HSV Senator Signature SV08 which is released in a limited run of 20 manual and 30 automatic units. This model featured lower paint-outs, sill plates and extra chrome accents on the side mirrors and door handles. It was powered by a V8 engine developing 317 kW mated to a new
Tremec TR-6060 gearbox and had 20-inch "Pentagon" wheels, ''Magnetic Ride Control'' suspension system with Sport mode and Park Assist system.
In August 2008, HSV launched its new flagship model, the
W427. This car is based on the GTS, but carries a 7.0 L
LS7 LS7 may refer to:
Vehicles
* General Motors LS7, a small-block V8 gasoline engine
* Hongqi LS7, a 2022–present Chinese full-size luxury SUV
* IM LS7, a 2021 Chinese electric mid-size SUV concept
* Rolladen-Schneider LS7
The Rolladen-Schneide ...
V8 engine along with larger brakes, strengthened gearbox, revised suspension and unique
MRC
MRC may refer to
Government
* Medical Research Council (United Kingdom)
* Medical Reserve Corps, a US network of volunteer organizations
* Municipalité régionale de comté (regional county municipality), Quebec, Canada
* Military Revolutionar ...
settings. The W427 was the most powerful car ever made in Australia until the release of the Gen-F GTS, with power outputs of at 7000 rpm and at 5000 rpm. It is still the most expensive, at $155 500.
On 28 March 2008, HSV announced that the
LS3 6.2-litre engine would be fitted to all E-Series models (with the exception of the LS7 W427) from April 2008. The
LS3 power output is , whilst peak torque has not increased over the LS2.
12 May 2008 saw the announcement of a new HSV E Series model; the HSV "Tourer". This new model, based on the VE Holden Sportwagon was later officially released in September 2008.
The range included:
*
Clubsport R8
* Clubsport R8 20th Anniversary Edition (limited edition)
* Clubsport R8 Tourer
* Clubsport GXP (limited edition)
*
GTS
*
W427
*
Senator Signature
* Senator SV08 (limited edition)
*
Grange
Grange may refer to:
Buildings
* Grange House, Scotland, built in 1564, and demolished in 1906
* Grange Estate, Pennsylvania, built in 1682
* Monastic grange, a farming estate belonging to a monastery
Geography Australia
* Grange, South Austral ...
*
Maloo R8
* Maloo GXP (limited edition)
;E Series 2
The HSV E Series 2 range was released late 2009 and was the most major update since the release of E Series HSV's. Prices started at $65,990 for the Clubsport R8.
The range received many cosmetic changes with new front and rear bumpers, twin-nostriled bonnet (from the
Pontiac G8
The Pontiac G8 is a Full-size car, full-size sedan that was produced by Holden in Australia, and then exported to the United States, where it was sold by Pontiac (automobile), Pontiac. The G8, a badge engineering, rebadged Holden Commodore (VE), ...
) and a new range of wheel designs. The Series 2 has a very distinctive look set of daytime running lights standard across the E2 range.
[The Motor Report](_blank)
HSV Reveals Full E Series 2 Range. On 9 September 2010, HSV released the E Series 3.
The new engines in the range are the 6.2-litre LS3 V8 used exclusively by the HSV GTS, with the rest of the E2 range being powered by an LS3 in trim. The new engines have also improved fuel economy by 4.2 per cent on the LS3 V8.
New is the intelligent launch controls, Competition mode ESC and Extended cruise control systems which are all standard for E2 models excluding intelligent launch control which is only available with a manual transmission.
;E Series 3
![2011 Holden Gts Hsv E3 Sedan Auto](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/00/2011_Holden_Gts_Hsv_E3_Sedan_Auto.jpg)
This last version of the E Series was released on 21 September 2010.
The noticeable changes between E Series 2 and 3 included an increase in power in the GTS range to , making it once again the top of the HSV list; the GTS E Series II was also increased to a price of $80,990; the HSV Enhanced Driver Interface (racing version of Holden IQ), the new LPI system, LPG and unleaded fuel are $5,990 options on all models except the R8 Tourer; and the updated
Holden VE II Commodore
The Holden Commodore (VE) is an executive car that was produced by Holden from 2006 to 2013. It was the first iteration of the fourth generation of the Commodore. Its range included the luxury variants, Holden Berlina (VE) and Holden Calais (V ...
interior and new rear exhaust and rear spoilers.
Gen-F
The Gen-F series, which is based on the
VF Commodore
The Holden Commodore (VF) is an executive car that was produced by Holden between June 2013 and October 2017. It was the second and last significantly restyled iteration of the fourth (and final) generation of the Holden Commodore to be manufa ...
series went on sale in August 2013. The HSV GTS became the most powerful production car ever produced in Australia, with and of torque. Its retail price was considerably higher than the equivalent E Series 3 models, costing over $90,000.
The range included:
* Clubsport R8
* Clubsport R8 SV Black (350 made)
* Clubsport R8 Tourer
* Clubsport R8 25th Anniversary (limited edition)
* Clubsport R8 LSA
* Clubsport R8 Track Edition
* Grange
* GTS
* GTSR
* GTSR W1
* GTS Maloo
* GTSR Maloo
* GTSR W1 Maloo (Only 5 made, sold to VIP)
* Maloo
* Maloo R8
* Maloo R8 LSA
* Maloo R8 LSA 30th Anniversary (limited edition)
* Maloo R8 SV Black
* Senator Signature
* Senator SV (limited edition)
Other models
Although the majority of HSV models are based on variants of the Holden Commodore, HSV has also produced a few cars based on other models part of the Holden lineup.
Astra SV1800
![Astra SV1800](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/07/Astra_SV1800.jpg)
The HSV Astra SV1800 was released in 1988, and was based on the
LD-series Holden Astra of the time (which was itself based on the
Nissan Pulsar
The is a line of automobiles produced by the Japanese automaker Nissan from 1978 until 2000, when it was replaced by the Nissan Bluebird Sylphy in the Japanese market.
Between 2000 and 2005, the name "Pulsar" has been used in Australia and New ...
N13 series).
It shared the same 1.8L engine as the standard Astra, but was released with extractors, sports exhaust and an aerodynamic sports body kit (adopted from the
Walkinshaw, which is why the SV1800 was nicknamed the Baby Walky) however, only 65 were made in both sedan and hatchback form.
VXR Turbo
![HSV VXR (15734394168)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b8/HSV_VXR_%2815734394168%29.jpg)
The HSV VXR Turbo is a rebadged
Vauxhall Astra
The Vauxhall Astra is a compact car/small family car (C-segment) that has been sold by Vauxhall since 1980. It is currently produced at Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, England.
For its first two generations, the nameplate was applied to right-hand ...
which was imported from Belgium between 2006 and 2009. It has a 2.0 litre
turbocharged
In an internal combustion engine, a turbocharger (often called a turbo) is a forced induction device that is powered by the flow of exhaust gases. It uses this energy to compress the intake gas, forcing more air into the engine in order to pro ...
4-cylinder engine producing and , coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission. Additionally it is equipped with the adaptive IDS (Interactive Driving System) suspension system along with
ESC,
traction control system
A traction control system (TCS), also known as ASR (from german: Antriebsschlupfregelung, lit=drive slippage regulation), is typically (but not necessarily) a secondary function of the electronic stability control (ESC) on production motor vehicle ...
,
ABS and
BA. The VXR Turbo was marketed without the Astra name.
Other than the original HSV VXR, a "Nürburgring" special edition was also launched in July 2008.
Jackaroo
This
mid-size
Mid-size—also known as intermediate—is a vehicle size class which originated in the United States and is used for cars larger than compact cars and smaller than full-size cars. "Large family car" is a UK term and a part of the D-segment in t ...
SUV
A sport utility vehicle (SUV) is a car classification that combines elements of road-going passenger cars with features from off-road vehicles, such as raised ground clearance and four-wheel drive.
There is no commonly agreed-upon definiti ...
was released in July 1993 and was a cosmetic upgrade of the Holden Jackaroo, which was itself the Australian adaptation of the second generation
Isuzu Trooper
The Isuzu Trooper is a full-size SUV that was produced by the Japanese automaker Isuzu between 1981 and 2007. In the domestic Japanese market it was sold as the Isuzu Bighorn, the car was exported internationally mainly as a Trooper but it also ...
. It was powered by the same 130 kW (177 hp) 3.2L
SOHC
An overhead camshaft (OHC) engine is a piston engine where the camshaft is located in the cylinder head above the combustion chamber. This contrasts with earlier overhead valve engines (OHV), where the camshaft is located below the combustion cha ...
V6 petrol engine as the donor Holden model.
SportsCat
The SportsCat is based on the
Holden Colorado
The Holden Colorado utility vehicle and similar Holden Colorado 7 sport utility vehicle (SUV) were sold in Australasia by Holden. Introduced in 2008 to replace the Holden Rodeo the Australasian Colorado was built by GM Thailand and is essential ...
.
Colorado V8
Plans for a high power version of the Holden Colorado using the
LT1 engine and a
10-speed transmission was cancelled in 2020 with the closure of HSV and Holden. Two prototypes were built with powertrains taken from crash-tested
Chevrolet Camaros, one based on a HSV SportsCat, and the other based on a North American Chevrolet Colorado to be aimed at that market. It was the final project worked on by HSV, and would have received a new name, ThunderCat being one of the considered options.
Models by year
The following is a chronological list of all HSV models (and build numbers, where available) since 1988, including limited editions and dealer specials.
1988
* Commodore SS Group A SV (500 VL-series built + 250 extra; produced for, badged and sold, Holden for racing homologation purposes; all in ''Panorama Silver'' paint; March to November 1988)
* SV88 (150 VL-series built; based on Calais; May to July 1988)
* SV F20 ("Final 20" VL-series vehicles; 2 built + 2 replicas; based on Commodore; July to August 1988)
* Astra SV1800 (65
LD-series built; 35 hatchbacks and 30 sedans; September 1988 to March 1989)
* SV3800 (491 VN-series built; October 1988 to May 1990)
1989
* SV89 (200 VN-series built; based on Berlina; March to July 1989)
* SV6 (64 VN-series built; April 1989 to May 1991)
* SV LE (110 sedan and 80 wagons VN-series built; August 1989 to September 1989 and to January 1990, respectively)
* LE (100 VN-series built; October 1989 to January 1990)
* SV5000 (359 VN-series built with 10 exported to New Zealand; September 1989 to September 1991)
1990
* 8 Plus (80 VN-series built; 25 manual and 55 automatic; March 1990)
* GTS V6 (510 VN-series built for New Zealand; in ''Vivid White'' or ''GTS Blue metallic'' equivalent to ''Alpine White'' or ''Imperial Blue''; March 1990)
* DMG90 (50 VN-series built for the Dealer Motor Group in Queensland; based on Commodore S-pack V6 and SV89 bodykit; April 1990 Brisbane Motorshow)
* Challenger (50 VN-built special for Canberra market; painted in ''Alpine White''; June 1990 to June 1991)
* SV T-30 (30 VN-series built for "Top 30" selling dealers only; based on Commodore SS and SV89 bodykit; June 1990)
* ClubSport (410 VN-series built; 60 in ''Asteroid Silver'' paint; June 1990 to August 1991)
* Statesman SV90 (135 VQ-series built; June 1990 to September 1991)
* Maloo (135 VG-series built; in ''Maranello Red'' or ''Alpine White'' paint; October 1990 to April 1993)
* Commodore SS Group A SV (302 VN-series built; produced for, badged and sold, Holden for racing homologation purposes; all in ''Durif'' red paint except 2 in black; November 1990 to March 1991)
1991
* Plus 6 (100 VN-series built, of which 60 automatic; March to August 1991)
* SV91 (1 VN-series prototype in April 1991)
* Statesman 5000i (50 VQ-series built; May 1991 to April 1992)
* SV T-30 (10 VN Series II built for "Top" selling dealers only; June to July 1991)
* LS (300 VN-series all V6 sedans except at least one V8 for Australia + 130 sedans and 20 wagons to New Zealand; based on Commodore Executive; July 1991)
* LS utility (54 VG and VP-series V6 built; September 1991 to June 1993)
* ClubSport (387 VP-series built + 65 "5th Anniversary"; October 1991 to June 1993)
* Sport Wagon (43 VP-series + 5 "5th Anniversary" built; October 1991 to June 1993)
* SV91 ( 103 VP-series built; October 1991 to June 1992)
1992
* +Six (82 VP-series built; February to June 1992)
* Maloo (34 VP-series + 15 "5th Anniversary" built)
* Senator (201 VP-series built; April 1992 to September 1993)
* Senator 5000i (136 VP-series; replacing the SV5000; April 1992 to September 1993)
* Statesman 5000i Series II (81 VQ Series II + 9 "5th Anniversary" built; April 1992 to September 1993)
* Nitron (50 VP-series built; July to August 1992)
* GTS (130 VP-series built; September 1992 to December 1992)
* Statesman SV93 (46 VQ Series II + 5 "5th Anniversary" built; September 1992 to March 1993)
* GTS V6 (VP-series for New Zealand; November 1992)
1993
* +Six (58 VP Series II built; March 1993)
* Formula (67 VP Series II built; May to June 1993)
* ClubSport 5000i (50 VP Series II built + 15 to New Zealand; May to June 1993)
* Jackaroo (79 UBS-series built; cosmetic upgrade to the
Holden
Holden, formerly known as General Motors-Holden, was an Australian subsidiary company of General Motors. It was an Australian automobile manufacturer, importer, and exporter which sold cars under its own marque in Australia. In its last thre ...
namesake; June 1993)
* ClubSport (1116 VR-series built; July 1993 to March 1995 + 1 additional sedan in July 1995)
* ClubSport wagon (77 VR-series built; July 1993 to March 1995)
* Senator and Senator 5000i (VP Series II, launched in February 1993; 15 and 30 "15th Anniversary" respective models launched in June 1993)
* Senator 185i (632 VR-series built; July 1993 to March 1995)
[VR Senator](_blank)
* Maloo (156 VR-series built; August 1993 to February 1995)
1994
* Senator 215i (223 VR-series built; May 1994 to March 1995)
* GTS (277 VR-series built; May 1994 to March 1995)
* Statesman 185i and 215i (48 VR-series built; September 1994 to March 1995)
* Caprice 215i (3 or 7 "215i" VR-series built; November 1994 to December 1996)
1995
* Maloo (97 VS-series built to December 1995; 173 total between April 1995 and June 1996)
* Manta sedan and wagon (195 VS-series sedans built to December 1995; 201 manual and 28 automatic total between April 1995 to June 1996)
* ClubSport (593 VS-series built to December 1995; 987 total between April 1995 and June 1996)
* Senator 185i (403 VS-series built; April 1995 to June 1996)
* Senator 215i (200 VS-series built, as 71 manual and 129 automatic; April 1995 to June 1996)
* GTS (158 VS-series built to December 1995; 83 automatic and 138 manual between April 1995 and June 1996)
* Statesman 185i (47 VS-series built; April 1995 to September 1996)
* Statesman 215i (35 VS-series built; April 1995 to September 1996)
* Caprice 215i (12 VS-series built; April 1995 to September 1996)
1996
* GTS-R "215i" (85 VS Series II built; 1 media car and 9 to New Zealand; option of standard or "Blueprint" engine; all in ''XU-3 Yellah'' paint)
* Maloo (280 VS Series II built; June 1996 to August 1997)
* Manta sedan and wagon (75 and 20 VS Series II built, respectively; June 1996 to September 1997)
* ClubSport (1217 VS Series II built; June 1996 to August 1997)
* Senator 185i (315 VS Series II built as automatics; June 1996 to August 1997)
* Senator 215i (187 VS Series II built, as 63 manual and 114 automatic; June 1996 to August 1997)
* GTS (154 VS Series II built, as 103 manual and 51 automatic; June 1996 to August 1997)
* Grange 185i (27 VS Series II built; based on
Statesman
A statesman or stateswoman typically is a politician who has had a long and respected political career at the national or international level.
Statesman or Statesmen may also refer to:
Newspapers United States
* ''The Statesman'' (Oregon), a n ...
; September 1996 to April 1999)
* Grange 215i (19 VS Series II built; based on
Statesman
A statesman or stateswoman typically is a politician who has had a long and respected political career at the national or international level.
Statesman or Statesmen may also refer to:
Newspapers United States
* ''The Statesman'' (Oregon), a n ...
; September 1996 to April 1999)
* Caprice 215i (6 VS Series II built; September 1996 to December 1996)
1997
* Maloo (388 "VS Series II at VT" built; 185i engine; September 1997 to December 1998)
* Manta (180 VT-series built; based on Commodore SS with 195i engine; September 1997 to November 1998)
* Clubsport (1505 VT-series built, as 948 automatic and 557 manual; September 1997 to May 1999)
* Senator Signature 195i (323 VT-series built; based on Calais fittings; September 1997 to June 1999)
* Senator Signature 195i wagon (27 VT-series built; based on automatic Berlina wagon with Calais fittings; September 1997 to June 1999)
* Senator Signature 220i (208 VT-series built; September 1997 to June 1999)
* GTS (399 VT-series built; 263 manual and 136 automatic; September 1997 to September 1999)
1998
* Maloo "10th Anniversary" (30 "VS Series II at VT" built; 185i engine; March to August 1998)
* Maloo (VS Series III; 185i engine; launched in May 1988)
* XU6 180i (321 VT-series built; V6 supercharged engine with automatic only; October 1998 to September 1999)
* XU6 180i "10th Anniversary" (10 VT-series built; V6 supercharged engine with automatic only; February 1998 to June 1998)
* Clubsport "10th Anniversary" (174 VT-series built, as 104 automatic and 70 manual; August 1998 to October 1998)
* Senator Signature 220i "10th Anniversary" (10 VT-series built; March 1998 to June 1998)
* XU8 (141 VT-series built; 195i final Australian-made V8 engine; June 1999)
* Grange 185i and 215i (VS Series III, launched in June 1998)
1999
* XU6 (320 VT Series II built; supercharged engine and automatic only; July 1999 to September 2000)
* Clubsport (1445 VT Series II built, as 1255 automatic and 190 manual; July 1999 to October 2000)
* Clubsport R8 (193 VT Series II built, as 123 automatic and 70 manual; July 1999 to October 2000)
* Senator V6 supercharged (6 VT Series II built; automatic only; July 1999 to October 2000)
* Senator 250i (26 VT Series II built, as 1 manual and 25 automatic; July 1999 to October 2000)
* Senator Signature 250i sedan and wagon (268 VT Series II built, as 29 manual and 239 automatic sedans and 8 wagons; July 1999 to October 2000)
* SV99 (99 VT Series II built; July 1999 to April 2000)
* Grange V6 supercharged (total 6 WH-series built; automatic only; launched in June 1999 and produced until November 2000)
* Grange 250i (total 548 WH-series; V6 supercharged; launched in June 1999 and produced until November 2000)
* Maloo (VS Series III; 195i engine)
2000
* GTS 300i (117 VT Series II built; 17 exported, 73 in ''Phantom Black'' and 27 in ''Sting Red'' paint; revised multi-link rear suspension; April 2000 to September 2000)
* Clubsport
"Hackett" special edition (200 VT Series II built; August 2000 to September 2000)
* XU6 180i (171 VX-series built; supercharged engine and automatic only; September 2000 to September 2001)
* Clubsport (948 VX-series built, as 533 automatic and 415 manual; September 2000 to September 2001)
* Clubsport R8 (1077 VX-series built, as 597 automatic and 480 manual; September 2000 to September 2001)
* Senator Signature 255i (233 VX-series built, as 208 automatic and 23 manual and 2 wagons; September 2000 to September 2001)
* GTS (287 VX-series built with manual transmission; November 2000 to September 2001)
2001
* Maloo (301 VU-series built, as 139 automatic and 162 manual; 483 VU Series II R8 built, as 222 automatic and 261 manual; R8 option introduced; launched in March 2001 and September 2001, respectively)
* Senator 300i (30 VX-series built + 3 to New Zealand;
Callaway C4B engine; May 2001 to June 2001)
* SV300 (134 VX Series II built; replacing Senator 300; September to December 2001)
* XU6 180i (117 VX Series II built; supercharged engine and automatic only; October 2001 to October 2002). Build numbers extend to 124.
* Clubsport (1099 VX Series II built, as 574 automatic and 525 manual; October 2001 to October 2002)
* Clubsport R8 (1077 VX Series II built, as 422 automatic and 355 manual; October 2001 to October 2002)
* Senator Signature 255i (97 VX Series II built, as 85 automatic and 12 manual; October 2001 to October 2002)
* Grange 255i (150 WH Series II built; launched in September 2001)
* Coupé GTO and GTS (based on V2-series
Monaro; launched in December 2001)
2002
* Clubsport "15th Anniversary" (105 VX Series II built, with build numbers 1 to 105; mostly in ''Delft Blue'' paint available on sedans for the first time and small numbers in ''Phantom Black'' and ''Sting Red''; June 2002)
* Clubsport R8 "15th Anniversary" (45 VX Series II built, with build numbers 1 to 45; June 2002)
* Maloo R8 "15th Anniversary" (25 VU Series II built + 5 to New Zealand, with Australian build numbers 1 to 25; June 2002)
* Clubsport and Clubsport R8 (Y-series; launched in October 2002)
* GTS (Y-series; launched in October 2002)
* Senator and Senator Signature (Y-series; launched in October 2002)
* Maloo and Maloo R8 (Y-series; launched in October 2002)
2003
* Coupé GTO and GTS (based on V2 Series II; launched in March 2003; exported as the Vauxhall Monaro VXR)
* Clubsport and Clubsport R8 (Y Series II; launched in September 2003)
* GTS (Y Series II; launched in September 2003)
* Senator and Senator Signature (Y Series II; launched in September 2003)
* Grange (WK-series; launched in September 2003)
* Coupé GTO LE (100 units based on V2 Series III; in ''Turbine Grey'' or ''Quicksilver'' paints; launched in September 2003)
* Maloo and Maloo R8 (Y Series II; September 2003 to July 2004)
* Avalanche (Y Series II wagon; first HSV to adopt AWD; launched in December 2003)
2004
* Coupé GTO and GTS (based on V2 Series III; launched in February 2004)
* Coupé4 (AWD adaptation of V2 Series III and Z-series; in ''Sting Red'', ''Phantom Black'' or ''Quicksilver''; launched in July and October 2004, respectively)
* Clubsport SE (Y-series II; July 2004)
* Clubsport and Clubsport R8 (Z-series; launched in October 2004)
* Senator (Y Series II; launched in October 2004)
* Grange (WL-series; launched in October 2004)
* Coupé GTO (based on Z-series; launched in October 2004; exported as the Vauxhall Monaro VXR)
* Avalanche (Z-series AWD wagon; produced from October 2004)
* Avalanche XUV ("X-Treme Utility Vehicle" AWD dual-cab ute; Y-series II and Z-series, produced from March 2004 and from October 2004 to March 2005, respectively)
* Maloo and Maloo R8 (Z-series; launched in October 2004)
2005
* SV6000 (planned 50+ Z-series build; 30 in ''Devil Yellow'' paint and remainder in ''Phantom Black''; March 2005)
* Clubsport and Clubsport R8 "Dealer Team Spec" (a Stage 1 package for the Z-series including upgrade tyre and wheel package, lighter overall weight and, with the optional Stage 2, other upgrades including enhanced driver interface, adjustable suspension and tyre pressure monitors; manual only; July 2005)
* Coupé GTO "Dealer Team Spec" (as above)
* Maloo R8 "15th Anniversary" (50 Z-series built; all in ''Devil Yellow'' paint to celebrate Maloo anniversary; August 2005)
2006
* Clubsport R (Z-series for one-make racing series)
* Clubsport R8 "Holden Racing Team" (50 Z Series MY06 built; in ''Sting Red'' paint and white stripes and racing decals; built in January and launched in March 2006)
* Clubsport R8 "Toll HSV Dealer Team" (50 Z Series MY06 built; in ''Phantom Black'' paint and orange accents; built in January and launched in March 2006)
* Senator Signature "Mark Skaife" (50 Z Series MY06 built; automatic only; in ''Phantom Black'' paint and chrome shadow wheels; built in January and launched in March 2006)
* Clubsport and Clubsport R8 (Z Series MY06 and E-series; launched in February 2006 and August 2006, respectively; R8 exported as the Chevrolet Special Vehicles CR8 and Vauxhall VXR8 from E-series)
* GTS (E-series; August 2006)
* Coupé GTO LE (Z-series; 50 units in black, 25 in yellow and 25 in red built; April 2006)
* Coupé Signature (70 Z-series built, all in ''Sting Red'' paint with gloss black accents, AP racing brakes & Sunroof; August 2006)
* Maloo and Maloo R8 (Z Series MY06; launched in July 2006)
* VXR
[ (AH-series; first ]Vauxhall
Vauxhall ( ) is a district in South West London, part of the London Borough of Lambeth, England. Vauxhall was part of Surrey until 1889 when the County of London was created. Named after a medieval manor, "Fox Hall", it became well known for ...
variant; launched in October 2006)
2007
* Clubsport "20th Anniversary" (100 E-series built; all in ''Sandstorm'' paint)
* Grange (WM-series; launched in May 2007)
* Maloo R8 (E-series; launched in October 2007)
2008
* W427 (137 E-series built)
* Clubsport R8 " Murph Special Edition" (41 E-series built for New Zealand)
* Maloo R8 " Murph Special Edition" (10 utes for New Zealand only)
* Senator SV08 (50 E-series built)
* VXR Nurburgring Edition (AH-series; launched in July 2008)
2009
* Clubsport R8 (E Series II; launched in September 2009)
* GTS (E Series II, launched in September 2009)
* Senator Limited Edition (89 E-series built; 59 automatic and 30 manual entry-level Senator)
* Grange (WM Series II; launched in September 2009)
* Maloo R8 (E series II; launched in September 2009)
2010
* Clubsport R8 "GXP" (400 E Series II build; 6 colours; March 2010)
* Clubsport "20th Anniversary" (E Series II; all in ''Millenium silver'' paint; June 2010)
* Clubsport R8 (E Series III, launched in September 2010)
* GTS (E Series III, launched in September 2010)
* Grange (WM Series III, launched in September 2010)
* Maloo "GXP" (E series II; launched in March 2010)
* Maloo and Maloo R8 (E series III; launched in September 2010)
* Maloo "20 Years of Maloo" R8 (100 E series III built; launched in September 2010)
2011
* Clubsport R8 SV Black Edition (100 E Series III built for Australia, with 15 for New Zealand; September 2011) 15 sedans (2 painted red) and 5 utes to New Zealand)
* Clubsport R8 Tourer SV Black Edition 25 E Series III built for Australia; September 2011)
* Maloo R8 SV Black Edition (100 E Series III built for Australia; September 2011)
* Clubsport R8 SV-R ("Response"; 4 yellow E-series III built for Queensland Police)
2012
* Clubsport and Clubsport R8 (E Series III "MY12.5" series, from August 2012)
* GTS "25th Anniversary" (140 E-Series III built; 125 for Australia and 15 for New Zealand)
2013
* Clubsport and Clubsport R8 sedan and Tourer (Gen-F series; optional "SV Enhanced" package; launched in May 2013; R8 exported as the Vauxhall VXR8)
* GTS (Gen-F series also exported as Vauxhall VXR8 GTS; launched in August 2013)
* Grange (Gen-F series, launched in May 2013)
* Maloo, Maloo R8 and Maloo R8 "SV Enhanced" (Gen-F, launched in May 2013)
2014
* Clubsport and Clubsport R8 sedan and Tourer (Gen-F series III "MY15" series with "SV Enhanced" package standard on R8, from November 2014)
* GTS (Gen-F "MY15" series, from November 2014)
* Maloo and Maloo R8 "SV Enhanced" (Gen-F series "MY15" series with "SV Enhanced" package standard on R8, from November 2014)
* GTS Maloo (250 Gen-F series built, with 240 for Australia and 10 for New Zealand; September 2014)
* Grange (Gen-F "MY15" series, from November 2014)
2015
* Senator SV (52 Gen-F "MY15" series built; 50 for Australia and 2 for New Zealand)
* Clubsport R8 "25th Anniversary" (108 Gen-F "MY15" series built; 100 for Australia and 8 for New Zealand; July 2015)
2016
* ClubSport R8 SV Black, 350 ClubSport R8's (plus 18 for New Zealand) and 100 Maloo, $62,990 for the Maloo R8 SV Black and $65,990 for the ClubSport R8 SV Black
2017
* Last Australian-made car to roll off a local assembly line. Last GTS-R W1 — the fastest, most powerful and the most expensive car ever built in Australia
Production milestones
In 2014, HSV reported the following production milestones:
* June 1991: 5,000th HSV built was a SV T-30
* April 1997: 20,000th HSV built was a Senator
* August 2003: 40,000th HSV built was a ClubSport
* July 2006: 50,000th HSV built was a ClubSport
* February 2013: 75,000th HSV built was a ClubSport
* September 2014: 80,000th HSV built was a ClubSport R8 in ''Phantom Black'' paint.
Exports
HSV exported its range to New Zealand without any rebranding, as in the case of Singapore, where exports resumed in 2010 after a two-decade absence. From the 2000s, however, exports to the United Kingdom and Middle East, saw the cars rebadged Vauxhall and CSV, respectively.
Vauxhall
* The Coupé GTO, in Y Series II and Z Series, was exported to the UK badged as the Vauxhall Monaro VXR. They were powered by a ) LS1 V8 engine and a LS2 V8 engines, respectively.
* Between 2007 and 2013, the E Series of the Clubsport R8 was also exported to the UK badged as the Vauxhall VXR8. This car was powered by the standard 6-Litre LS2 V8 engine with and , but was also available as a supercharged model using the same kit that had been available in Australia as an option via Walkinshaw Performance.These models were followed by a VXR8 GTS, which was based on the HSV E2 GTS in Australia. This model was updated with a new front end and a 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine with and , which was sold until 2013, when the updated Gen-F was introduced with a 6.2-litre supercharged LSA V8 with and . This was sold until 2017, when Holden stopped manufacturing in Australia.
Chevrolet Special Vehicles (CSV)
* HSV first reached into the Middle Eastern market with a one-race series featuring stripped down ClubSport R (Z Series) sedans in Dubai.
* The Clubsport R8 (E Series) followed as a road legal car, rebadged as the Chevrolet Special Vehicles CR8 (its CSV badge not to be confused with the unrelated, but still Holden Commodore-based, Corsa Specialised Vehicles
Corsa Specialised Vehicles (CSV) is a small-scale automaker established in 1994 that is based in Mildura, Victoria, Australia. Its range consists of V8-engined high performance cars based on those produced by Holden.
Since its founder, Peter Di ...
brand).
Concept cars
;HRT Maloo utility
Based on the VX HSV Maloo, it was fitted with a new bodykit featuring significantly flared wheel arches to accommodate wider track and 20-inch wheels. The roof was lowered and modifications made to the suspension to produce a "ground hugging" stance. The ute was powered by a LS6 V8 stroked to 6.2 litres (producing 350 kW (469 hp)) with exhaust exiting from the side.
;HRT 427
Unveiled at the 2002 Sydney Motor Show, the HRT (Holden Racing Team
Walkinshaw Andretti United is an Australian motor racing team based in the Melbourne suburb of Clayton. The team currently fields two Holden ZB Commodores in the Supercars Championship for Nick Percat and Chaz Mostert, along with a Porsche 91 ...
) 427 was based on a modified Holden Monaro
The Holden Monaro ( ) is a rear-wheel drive coupé manufactured by General Motors Holden in Australia from 1968 to 1975 and later reintroduced from 2001 to 2005. It was also manufactured as a 4-door sedan from 1973 to 1977.
Three generations of ...
bodyshell and, among other things, it featured a (7.0-Litre) V8 engine (adapted from the Corvette C5-R) – hence the name. Due to the high cost specifications, the business case for full production failed since Holden could not build the 427 in such limited quantities for the original asking price of A$215,000. In all, only two road and four racing versions were ever built.
;GTS-R
This concept was unveiled at the 2004 Sydney Motor Show also based on the Monaro bodyshell. Similarities could be drawn with the HRT 427, however, this model was only intended for a one-make racing series and was powered by a modified 6.0-litre version of Chevrolet's LS2 V8 engine producing . This concept, too, never reached production.
Engines
GM 6.2-litre Supercharged V8 LSA
* Power: at 6000 rpm.
* Torque: at 4200 rpm.
The supercharged 6.2L LSA is similar to the LS9 and debuted in the 2009 CTS-V. The LSA has been SAE certified at 556 bhp (415 kW) at 6100 rpm and 551 lb·ft (747 N·m) at 3800 rpm. GM labels it "the most powerful ever offered in Cadillac's nearly 106-year history". The LSA features a smaller 1.9L capacity supercharger rather than the 2.3 L variant of the LS9. Other differences include a slightly lower 9.0:1 compression ratio, single unit heat exchanger and cast pistons.
A 580 bhp (430 kW) and 556 lb·ft (754 N·m) version of the LSA engine is used in the 2012 Camaro ZL1. On 26 April 2013, HSV announced that this version of the LSA engine will also be used in the GEN-F GTS.
GM 7.0-litre V8 LS7
* Power: (W427)
* Torque: (W427)
This engine was originally used in the sixth-generation Corvette Z06 that was then shipped over for usage in the W427. It made its first appearance in Australia in 2008. The W427 was designed and built to celebrate the 20th anniversary of HSV.
GM 6.2-litre V8 LS3
* Power: (E Series), (E Series II GTS), 340 kW (462 PS, 456 hp) (GEN-F SV Enhanced models)
* Torque: (E Series), (GEN-F SV Enhanced models)
This engine debuted in the E Series. It is a GM built LS3 V8 customized for HSV's usage. The transition from LS2 to LS3 was primarily to meet impending Euro IV
The European emission standards are vehicle emission standards for pollution from the use of new land surface vehicles sold in the European Union and EEA member states and the UK, and ships in EU waters. The standards are defined in a seri ...
emissions requirements being introduced in Australia on 1 January 2009 and to compete against 2008's FPV GT.
GM 6.0-litre V8 LS2
* Power: at 6000 rpm (Z series), (E Series)
* Torque: at 4400 rpm (Z series), (E Series)
This engine debuted in the Z series. It is a GM built LS2 V8 customized for HSV's usage.
One of the main reasons that this engine was used is that the LS1 V8 does not meet ADR 79/01 (Euro III
The European emission standards are vehicle emission standards for pollution from the use of new land surface vehicles sold in the European Union and EEA member states and the UK, and ships in EU waters. The standards are defined in a ser ...
) emissions regulations. This new engine also has connections to the L76 6.0-litre used in the VZ and VE Holden Commodores.
GM 5.7-litre V8 LS1
* Power: (VTII), (VX), (Y series), (AWD models), (YII series)
* Torque: (VTII), (VX), (Y series), (YII series)
This motor started its debut in the VTII series of HSV sedans. It produced of power – more than HSV's previous "Stroker" 5.7 V8 used in the VT. It was a slightly de-tuned version, with less than when it was in the two-door sports body of the Corvette. Continuous modifications were made to the LS1 engine throughout its lifetime, reaching in the YII series, just under the GTS. AWD models such as the Coupé4 retained a similar configuration to other YII series models but were fitted with a more restrictive exhaust system, reducing power to . The LS1 was phased out for the new 6.0-litre LS2 in the Z Series. However, it was still used in the AWD models of the Z series.
GM 5.7-litre V8 LS1 (C4B)
* Power: at 6000 rpm
* Torque: at 4800 rpm A modified version of the LS1 enhanced by Callaway Cars Incorporated
Callaway Cars Inc. is an American specialty vehicle manufacturer and engineering company that designs, develops, and manufactures high-performance product packages for cars, pickup trucks, and SUVs. They specialize in Corvettes and GM vehicles. N ...
, this engine was used on the VTII, VX and Y series of GTS models as well as the SV300. Differences from the LS1 included ported cylinder heads, larger throttle body, revised camshaft, remapped ECU, titanium valve spring retainers, upgraded valve springs and valves. The compression ratio was also lowered slightly to 9.95:1 and the engine ran MAFless. In HSV models, this engine was used with a higher than standard 3.91:1 final drive ratio.
HSV 5.7-litre '350ci Harrop Stroker' V8
* Power: at 4800 rpm (VR-VS), (VT)
* Torque: at 3600 rpm This motor had its debut in the VR series of HSV sedans. It was a bored and stroked version of the Holden 304ci 5.0 litre and was originally available on the VR Senator and GTS 215i. A Tremec T-56 six-speed manual gearbox option exclusive to this engine was introduced as the then current Borg-Warner T-5
The TREMEC T-5 is a 5-speed manual transmission for longitudinal engine automobiles. It includes one overdrive gear, a light-weight aluminum housing, and is adaptable for four wheel drive use. It is currently manufactured by TREMEC.
History and ...
5-speed could not reliably handle the prodigious amounts of torque it produced. The HSV VS GTS-R had the blueprint
A blueprint is a reproduction of a technical drawing or engineering drawing using a contact print process on light-sensitive sheets. Introduced by Sir John Herschel in 1842, the process allowed rapid and accurate production of an unlimited number ...
option to produce more power at around . The 215i engine was also available on the Grange long-wheelbase model. Its last appearance was in the VT GTS(Series 1). The LS1 replaced it in the VTII series.
Holden 5.0-litre V8
* Power: at 5200 rpm (VL), (VN SS) (VN Group A SS), (VP), at 4800 rpm (VN-VP), (VR-VS), (VT)
* Torque: at 4000 rpm(VL), (VN Group A SS), at 3600 rpm (VN-VP), at 3600 rpm (VN-VS), at 3600 rpm (VT)
This engine for HSV was available in 2 guises. The twin throttle bodied versions designed for racing use were available in the VL and VN Group A cars from 1988 and 1990 respectively. For the majority of HSV sedans using this capacity motor, the engines were modified versions of the standard EFI Holden V8. Note that there was also a VP equipped Clubsport 5000i that used the remaining 4 bolt main Group A blocks with SV5000 red motor ancillaries.
The LS1 replaced it in the VTII series.
* Additionally:
1. A non-EFI version was fitted to the VL Calais SV88, producing at 4400 rpm and at 3200 rpm.
2. The VL SS Group A SV Commodore was the first Holden V8 to feature Electronic Fuel Injection.
HSV 3.8-litre supercharged V6
* Power: at 5000 rpm
* Torque: at 3200 rpm
Available on the VT and VX series HSV XU6. Also only two HSV VX Senators were ever produced with a V6 Supercharged motor. There were several limited VT HSV sedans and wagons with the L67. This engine is a modified version of Holden's supercharged V6 with upgraded air intake and exhaust to boost power from the standard . Due to the popularity and superior performance of Ford's standard I6 engine, let alone the turbocharged variant, this model was removed from the line-up after the VY series.
VXR 2.0-litre Ecotec-4 Turbo
* Power: at 5600 rpm
* Torque: at 2400 rpm
This 4-cylinder engine is used in the HSV VXR, a model based on the Vauxhall Astra VXR/Opel Astra
The Opel Astra is a compact car/small family car (C-segment) developed and produced by the German automaker Opel since 1991, currently at its sixth generation. It was first launched in September 1991 as a direct replacement to the Opel Kadet ...
OPC.
V8 Supercars
In 2005, HSV provided sponsorship for the V8 Supercar
The Supercars Championship is a touring car racing category in Australia, running as an International Series under Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) regulations, governing the sport.
Supercars events take place in all Australian ...
team formerly known as the Kmart Racing Team. The team adopted HSV Dealer Team
The HSV Dealer Team, previously known as the K-Mart Racing Team, was an Australian V8 Supercar team. The team ceased operations at the end of 2008, with Walkinshaw Racing and Kelly Racing being formed by owners and staff of the former team. The ...
as their new name. With Garth Tander
Garth Tander (born 31 March 1977) is a multiple-championship winning Australian motor racing driver competing in the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship's Enduro Cup, co-driving the No. 97 Holden ZB Commodore for Triple Eight Race Engineer ...
and Rick Kelly
Rick Kelly (born 17 January 1983) is an Australian professional racing driver who previously competed in the Supercars Championship. He last drove the No. 15 Ford Mustang GT for Kelly Racing. Previously, he drove for the HSV Dealer Team with w ...
driving the two cars, the newly renamed team struggled in its first few outings in 2005, they found form later in the season, and from round one led the 2006 Championship to victory. Rick Kelly won the 2006 series.. In 2007, Tander and Kelly won 17 races between them out of a possible 37, with Tander winning 15 of them and four round wins, winning the championship along the way. HSVDT also won their second Teams Championship in succession. The team was disbanded for the 2009 season. HSV's remaining sponsorship is with Walkinshaw Andretti United
Walkinshaw Andretti United is an Australian motor racing team based in the Melbourne suburb of Clayton. The team currently fields two Holden ZB Commodores in the Supercars Championship for Nick Percat and Chaz Mostert, along with a Porsche ...
.
Rivals
HSV's direct rival was Ford Australia
Ford Motor Company of Australia Limited (known by its trading name Ford Australia) is the Australian subsidiary of United States-based automaker Ford Motor Company. It was founded in Geelong, Victoria, in 1925 as an outpost of Ford Motor Comp ...
through its various performance arms, namely Ford Tickford Experience
Tickford Vehicle Engineering (TVE) was a company responsible for numerous automotive projects and upgrades for Ford Australia between 1991 and 2002. In 1999, TVE setup Ford Tickford Experience (FTE) as a competitor to Holden Special Vehicles (HS ...
(FTE) from 1999, and Ford Performance Vehicles
Ford Performance Vehicles was the Melbourne-based, premium performance arm of automobile manufacturer Ford Australia. The company produced a range of Ford-based models from 2002 to 2014 under the FPV marque name.
History
The roots of FPV can be ...
(FPV) from 2002 to 2014, with their production of modified Ford Falcon
Ford Falcon is an automobile nameplate applied to several vehicles worldwide.
* Ford Falcon (North America), an automobile produced by Ford from 1960 to 1970.
* Ford Falcon (Argentina), a car built by Ford Argentina from 1962 until 1991.
* Fo ...
-based cars. Another rival, albeit on a smaller scale, has been Corsa Specialised Vehicles
Corsa Specialised Vehicles (CSV) is a small-scale automaker established in 1994 that is based in Mildura, Victoria, Australia. Its range consists of V8-engined high performance cars based on those produced by Holden.
Since its founder, Peter Di ...
(CSV – not to be confused with HSV's exports badged Chevrolet Special Vehicles in some markets) with its Commodore
Commodore may refer to:
Ranks
* Commodore (rank), a naval rank
** Commodore (Royal Navy), in the United Kingdom
** Commodore (United States)
** Commodore (Canada)
** Commodore (Finland)
** Commodore (Germany) or ''Kommodore''
* Air commodore, a ...
-based high performance cars that included the CSV GTS of 2007. This CSV beat the HSV W427 to the market by being the first Holden vehicle powered by a 7.0L LS7 LS7 may refer to:
Vehicles
* General Motors LS7, a small-block V8 gasoline engine
* Hongqi LS7, a 2022–present Chinese full-size luxury SUV
* IM LS7, a 2021 Chinese electric mid-size SUV concept
* Rolladen-Schneider LS7
The Rolladen-Schneide ...
V8 engine.
See also
* List of HSV vehicles
References
*
Guinness World Record for Fastest Production Pickup Truck
External links
HSV Website
The HSV Classic Programme
Worldwide HSV Owners Forum
{{Automotive industry in Australia
Automotive companies established in 1987
General Motors marques
Official motorsports and performance division of automakers
1987 establishments in Australia
2020 disestablishments in Australia