Top Qs
Timeline
Chat
Perspective

Holden Special Vehicles

Division of Holden From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Holden Special Vehicles
Remove ads

Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) was the officially designated performance vehicle division for Holden. Established in 1987 and based in Clayton, Victoria, the privately owned company modified Holden models such as the standard wheelbase Commodore, long wheelbase Caprice and Statesman, and commercial Ute for domestic and export sale, all of which were imported from the main Holden Elizabeth Plant. HSV had also modified other non-Holden cars within the General Motors lineup in low volumes.

Quick facts Company type, Industry ...

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).

Remove ads

History

Summarize
Perspective

In 1987 Holden and Tom Walkinshaw Racing established the joint venture Holden Special Vehicles (HSV). It replaced Holden Dealer Team (HDT), after Holden severed ties with it and Peter Brock due to the controversy surrounding the Energy Polarizer.[1][2]

The first car developed by HSV was the Holden VL Commodore SS Group A SV of 1988, which was badged and sold by Holden for Group A touring car racing homologation purposes. It went on to win the 1990 Bathurst 1000 race.[3] The first car badged as a HSV was the SV88.[4]

HSV initially used a facility in 1987 in Notting Hill, Victoria, later moving to one in Clayton previously owned by Nissan in 1994. In 2018 Walkinshaw Automotive Group, including HSV moved to another facility– also in Clayton.[5][6]

HSV ceased production of the Holden Caprice-based Grange in 2016.[7] Holden Commodore-based models ceased production in 2017.[6]

In mid-2018 HSV began converting (re-manufacturing) the Chevrolet Camaro 2SS coupe and Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD pickup truck from left-hand-drive to right-hand-drive to GM's factory standards. The vehicles were sold with a factory warranty via the existing HSV-Holden dealership network. It boosted job numbers from 130 to 150 staff in order to cope with production ramping up.[6]

On 18 August 2020 General Motors announced the closure of Holden Special Vehicles and its replacement by General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV).[8] GMSV imports and distributes the Silverado in the Australasia region beginning in November 2020.[9][10]

Remove ads

Nameplates

Summarize
Perspective

The following is an alphabetical listing of the most notable and popular nameplates used by Holden Special Vehicles.

Avalanche

The HSV Avalanche is an all-wheel drive crossover SUV that was produced from 2003 to 2005. Based on the Holden Adventra LX8 crossover wagon, the Avalanche range also incorporated a dual-cab utility model known as the Avalanche XUV, derived from the Holden Crewman Cross8. The Avalanche has been built over the following series:

  • VY (2003–2005)
  • VZ (2005)
ClubSport

The HSV ClubSport or Clubsport is a full size sports sedan 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 that was produced from 2001 to 2006. It was based on the Holden Monaro, the Coupé adaptation of the third generation 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:

  • V2 (2001–2002)
  • V2 II (2002–2004)
  • VZ (2004–2006)
Grange

The HSV Grange is a full size 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)
  • WK (2003–2004)
  • WL (2004–2006)
  • WM (2006–2013)
  • WN (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 engines and full body kits.[11] The name "Maloo" means "thunder" 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.

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 by 22 km/h.[12]

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 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.[13]

Manta

The HSV Manta is a full-size sports sedan, and wagon (VS series) that was first introduced in April 1995, Discontinued November 1998. It was established as the entry-level HSV model below the ClubSport, it was eventually dropped due to poor sales sale performance. The Manta was built over the following series:

  • VS (1995–1997)
  • VT (1997–1998)
Senator

The HSV 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.

SV91
  • VP (1991–1992)
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 7,011 cc (7.0 L; 427.8 cu in) LS7 V8 engine rated at 375 kW (510 PS; 503 bhp) at 6500 rpm and 640 N⋅m (472 lb⋅ft) at 5000 rpm of torque.[14]

XU6

The XU6 was a supercharged V6 model, it was an entry-level model in the HSV range, produced from 1998 to 2002.

  • VT (1998–2000)
  • VX (2000–2002)
Remove ads

Holden-based models by series

Summarize
Perspective

VL

Main article: HSV VL SS Group A SV

The Holden VL Commodore SS Group A SV was the first car produced by HSV, It released in 1988. It produced 180 kW (241 hp) and 380 N⋅m (280 lb⋅ft). All produced in 'Panorama Silver'. The VL Group A SS was also the first model to feature a fuel-injected version of the Holden V8. It was built as a homologation, and sold as a Holden.[3]

Thumb
Holden VL Commodore SS Group A SV

The SV88 was based on the Holden Calais (VL). It used a carburetored Holden V8 producing 136 kW (182 hp) and 355 N⋅m (262 lb⋅ft). It was the first car under the HSV marque.[4] The SV F20 was powered by the turbocharged 3.0-litre Nissan RB30 producing 150 kW (201 hp) and 296 kW (397 hp) of torque. Only 2 units were produced, instead of the 20 planned.[15]

The range of vehicles for this series included (in chronological order):

VN/VG/VQ

Main article: Holden Commodore (VN)
Thumb
VN Clubsport
Thumb
VQ Statesman 5000i

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 215 kW (292 PS; 288 hp) at 5200 rpm and 411 N⋅m (303 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm coupled to a six-speed ZF S6-40 manual 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.[16] The VN Group A SS was the last Holden built as a homologation racing special.

Other models used either 180 kW (245 PS; 241 hp) or 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp) versions of the same V8 except the SV3800, which had a 179 kW (243 PS; 240 hp) 3.8-litre V6. In 1990, the first HSV Maloo was released, based on the VG series Holden Ute 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 were released soon after. The SV90 and SV93 were treated with reworked suspension, wider front track and the 180 kW (245 PS; 241 hp) V8. The Statesman 5000i (in both series I and II form) featured 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp).

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 (VN sedan and wagon – wagon only available in New Zealand)
  • LS (VG V6 utility)
  • Maloo
  • Statesman 5000i
  • Statesman 5000i
  • Statesman SV90
  • Statesman SV93
  • SV LE
  • SV89
  • SV3800
  • SV5000
  • SV T-30
  • 8-Plus

and

More information Model, Image ...

VP

Main article: Holden Commodore (VP)

With the release of the VP series, HSV began introducing independent rear suspension (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 180 kW (245 PS; 241 hp) V8, the high-performance GTS came standard with the 200 kW (272 PS; 268 hp) version and HSV's premium brake package. A limited-slip differential was standard across the range.

  • Thumb
    VP Clubsport
  • Thumb
    VP GTS
  • Thumb
    Sport Wagon
  • Thumb
    Senator
  • Thumb
    Maloo (VP II)
  • Thumb
    Maloo (VP II)

VR/VS

Main articles: Holden Commodore (VR) and Holden Commodore (VS)
Thumb
Thumb
VS Commodore GTS-R

Following the appointment of award-winning designer Ian Callum 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 185 kW (252 PS; 248 hp), 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 (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 and different electronics configuration for each car produced in an effort to deter theft.[19] In 1996, a new Statesman-based model known as the Grange replaced previous HSV Statesman models.

Thumb
VS Grange
More information Model, Image ...

VT

Main article: Holden Commodore (VT)
Thumb
VT Clubsport
Thumb
VT GTS
Thumb
Senator (VT II)
Thumb
SV99 (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 265 PS (195 kW; 261 hp) 5.0 litre V8 (cast iron block) and the 300 PS (221 kW; 296 hp) 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:

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 340 PS (250 kW; 335 hp) 5.7 litre GENIII LS1 V8, which saw Wheels magazine name the GTS as the fastest Holden ever at the time.[21] 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 300 kW (408 PS; 402 hp) 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 in 2001 allowed the Grange to gain its new look. This series also saw the introduction of a supercharged 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.[22] 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:

VX/VU

Main article: Holden Commodore (VX)
Thumb
Thumb
Clubsport (VX)
Thumb
GTS (VX)
Thumb
Maloo (VU)
Thumb
Senator Signature (VX)

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 5 kW (7 PS; 7 hp). 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 300 kW (408 PS; 402 hp) V8 and suspension modifications from the GTS.

The range included:

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 255 kW (347 PS; 342 hp) 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 Microdots across the range in order to reduce theft, a feature HSV refers to as HSV DNA.

The range now included:

Y Series

Main article: Holden Commodore (VY)
Thumb
VY Clubsport
Thumb
VY GTS
Thumb
Maloo (VY)
Thumb
Senator
Thumb
Grange
Thumb
GTS Coupe (V2)

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 260 kW (354 PS; 349 hp)), 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:

Y II Series

This upgraded range is characterised by a significant power increase to 285 kW (387 PS; 382 hp). 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 300 kW (408 PS; 402 hp) 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 into AWD saw the introduction of the Avalanche (based on the Holden Adventra), the XUV (based on the Holden Crewman), and the Coupé4 (based on the Holden Monaro). The latter was particularly significant, as it was the first time that Holden'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:

Z Series

Main article: Holden Commodore (VZ)
Thumb
Clubsport
Thumb
Thumb
Senator
Thumb
Maloo
Thumb
Coupe GTO

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. 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 300 kW (408 PS; 402 hp) GTS, sparking rumors that the new LS7 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,[23][24] 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 was clocked at an averaged speed of 271.44 km/h (168.66 mph) in the Woomera, South Australia.[25] The speed was recognised by the Guinness World Records representative, Chris Sheedy, as the Fastest Production Pickup Truck recorded. The speed improved over the previous record held by a Dodge Ram SRT-10 at 248.784 km/h (154.587 mph).[12]

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 R8
  • SV6000 (limited edition)
  • Grange
  • Senator
  • Coupé GTO
  • Coupé4 AWD
  • Coupé GTO LE
  • Maloo
  • Maloo R8
  • Avalanche
  • Avalanche XUV
  • Crewman ss thunder (gen4 6.0litre)

In addition, in July 2005, HSV released upgraded manual-only Clubsport, Clubsport R8[26] and Coupé GTO[27] fitted with optional 2-Stage "Dealer Team Spec" performance packages.

E Series

Main article: HSV E Series
Thumb
Clubsport R8 (E Series)
Thumb
GTS (E Series)
Thumb
Thumb
Maloo (VE)
Thumb
Grange (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 10 kW (14 PS; 13 hp) increase in power (see below) for the LS2 to 307 kW (417 PS; 412 hp). Extensive modifications to the base VE Commodore sheetmetal and interior were introduced, most notably the unique LED taillights and distinctive side vents. The new GM 6L80-E 6 speed automatic transmission from the VE Commodore is offered, and Electronic Stability Control 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,[28] with the MRC suspension system alone costing A$4.5 million.[29] In October, a new Grange model based on the Holden WM Caprice 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 V8 engine along with larger brakes, strengthened gearbox, revised suspension and unique MRC settings. The W427 was the most powerful car ever made in Australia until the release of the Gen-F GTS, with power outputs of 375 kW (510 PS; 503 hp) at 7000 rpm and 640 N⋅m (472 lb⋅ft) 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 317 kW (431 PS; 425 hp), 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:

E Series 2
Thumb
Thumb
GTS (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) 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.[30] On 9 September 2010, HSV released the E Series 3.

The new engines in the range are the 325 kW (442 PS; 436 hp) 6.2-litre LS3 V8 used exclusively by the HSV GTS, with the rest of the E2 range being powered by an LS3 in 317 kW (431 PS; 425 hp) 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
Thumb
GTS (E Series 3)

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 325 kW (436 hp; 442 PS), 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 interior and new rear exhaust and rear spoilers.

Gen-F

Main article: Holden Commodore (VF)
Thumb
Thumb
GTS
Thumb
Clubsport R8
Thumb
GTS-R
Thumb
Maloo R8

The Gen-F series, which is based on the VF Commodore series went on sale in August 2013. The HSV GTS became the most powerful production car ever produced in Australia,[31] with 430 kW (585 PS; 577 hp) and 740 N⋅m (546 lb⋅ft) of torque. Its retail price was considerably higher than the equivalent E Series 3 models, costing over $90,000.[32]

The range included:

Remove ads

Other models

Summarize
Perspective

HSV made non-Commodore based models since 1988.[33]

Thumb
HSV Astra SV1800

Astra SV1800

See also: Holden Astra

The HSV Astra SV1800 was released in 1988, and was based on the LD-series Holden Astra. It shared the same 1.8-litre GM Family II engine as the standard Astra, producing 79 kW (106 hp) and 151 N⋅m (111 lb⋅ft). It added extractors, sports exhaust, and a body kit. 65 units were produced, both in sedan and hatchback form.[33][34]

Astra Aero

The 1988 HSV Astra Aero was a limited-edition model developed by Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) as counterpart to the Astra SV1800. Based on the LD-series series Holden Astra, the Aero featured primarily cosmetic and suspension enhancements. Approximately 150 units were produced, and are identifiable by the "Aero" badging on the rear instead of SV1800.[citation needed]

VXR Turbo

Thumb
HSV VXR

The HSV VXR Turbo is a rebadged Vauxhall Astra, produced from 2006 to 2009. It has a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 176 kW (236 hp) and 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft), coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission.[35]

HSV Jackaroo

See also: Isuzu Trooper
Thumb
HSV Jackaroo

The HSV Jackaroo was introduced in 1993. It was based on the Holden Jackaroo, itself derived from the second-generation Isuzu Trooper. It was powered by the same 3.2-litre V6 coupled with a four-speed automatic as the Holden Jackaroo, producing 130 kW (174 hp) and 260 N⋅m (192 lb⋅ft). It added air conditioning, new alloy wheels and a limited-slip differential. 79 units were produced.[33][34]

HSV Jackaroo SE

See also: Isuzu Trooper
Thumb
HSV Jackaroo SE

Holden restructured the Jackaroo lineup at the end of 1993, leading to the release of the HSV Jackaroo SE (8DS35) in 1994, which remained in production until 1995. This model was the complete opposite of the original HSV Jackaroo—fully equipped and positioned as the top trim level. It bridged the gap between the mid-spec XS wagons and the high-end Monterey trim. Unlike its predecessor, the SE model was marketed without HSV badging but retained several signature styling upgrades characteristic of HSV vehicles.[36]

The SE variant maintained the same 3.2L V6 engine producing 130 kW (177 hp) and included improvements in electronic communication between the engine management system and the automatic transmission, leading to smoother gear transitions.[36][37] A total of 234 HSV Jackaroo SE units were produced.

Key distinguishing features of the SE model included the original HSV Wheel-arch flares, SV5000 style Alloy wheels, four different options of the Two-tone paint scheme, instead of the original Radiant Red and Updated interior trim. The Vehicle lost its external HSV corporate branding

While retaining its original off-road capability, the SE model was targeted at buyers seeking a more refined and stylish SUV without altering its mechanical performance.[37]

SportsCat

The HSV SportsCat was produced from 2018 to 2020, based on the Holden Colorado.[38][39] The SportsCat features enhanced suspension, styling, and braking upgrades over the standard model.

Introduced as HSV's first sports-oriented 4x4, the SportsCat was designed to compete in the performance ute segment. It retained the 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine from the Colorado but received chassis and handling refinements. The SportsCat was available in two trim levels:[40]

SportsCat V – Base model featuring HSV styling, sports suspension, and interior upgrades.

SportsCat SV – Higher-spec variant with additional performance features, including a rear de-coupling anti-roll bar and an AP Racing brake package.

The HSV SportsCat features HSV Sports Suspension, with an optional SupaShock system for enhanced road and off-road capability. Braking performance is upgraded on the SV model, which includes AP Racing 4-piston front brakes. It rides on 18-inch forged alloy wheels fitted with Cooper Zeon LTZ all-terrain tyres. Inside, the cabin is equipped with HSV Performance seats, upholstered in Windsor Suede with red stitching. The MyLink infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Satellite Navigation, while safety features include Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Alert.[40]

The SportsCat ceased production in 2020, following the closure of HSV operations and the discontinuation of the Holden brand in Australia.

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.[41]

The only road-registerable prototype, painted in Panorama Silver, was later auctioned as a collector's item.[42]

Remove ads

Production milestones

In 2014, HSV reported the following production milestones:[43][6]

  • 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
  • December 2017: 90,000th HSV built
Remove ads

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.[44] HSV was rebadged elsewhere, starting in 2006 in the United Kingdom (with the Vauxhall Monaro VXR),[45] and 2008 in the Middle East with the CSV CR8.[46]

Vauxhall

Main articles: Vauxhall Monaro VXR and Vauxhall VXR8

Chevrolet Special Vehicles (CSV)

Main article: CSV CR8
Not to be confused with Corsa Specialised Vehicles.

HSV first reached into the Middle Eastern market with a one-race series featuring stripped down ClubSport R (Z Series) sedans in Dubai and Bahrain, the Chevrolet Supercars Middle East Championship.[47]

  • CR8, based on the E-Sereis ClubSport
Remove ads

Concept cars

Summarize
Perspective
HRT Maloo
See also: Holden Special Vehicles Maloo § Concepts

The HRT Maloo concept had a 6.2-litre LS6 engine producing 350 kW (469 hp) tuned by Callaway Cars, a wider bodykit and 20-inch wheels.[48]

Maloo Cab Chassis
See also: Holden Special Vehicles Maloo § Concepts

The Maloo Cab Chassis concept was powered by a LS1 producing 260 kW (349 hp), it was a cab chassis model based on the Holden One Tonner. It was shown at the 2003 Melbourne Motor Show.[49]

HRT 427
See also: Holden Monaro

The HRT 427 concept was based on a modified Holden Monaro bodyshell and, among other things, it featured a 427 cubic inches (7,000 cm3) V8 engine based on the LS6 V8, but with capacity taken from 5.7 L (5,665 cc) to 7.0 L (7,000 cc) – 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. Only two road and three racing versions were ever built.[50]

The project was done at the same time that the Holden Monaro 427C GT racing car that raced in (and won) the 2002 Bathurst 24 Hour (repeating victory in 2003) and then raced in the Australian Nations Cup Championship. Effectively, the HRT 427 was supposed to be the road car variant to the racing 427C Monaro's.[50]

GTS-R
See also: Holden Monaro

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 335 kW (455 PS; 449 hp). This concept, too, never reached production.[51]

Remove ads

V8 Supercars

Main article: HSV Dealer Team

In 2005, HSV provided sponsorship for the V8 Supercar team then-called the Kmart Dealer Team. The team adopted HSV Dealer Team as their new name.[4] Holden opposed the idea, fearing that it would undermine Holden Racing Team's link with HSV.[52]

Rivals

HSV's direct rival was Ford Australia through its various performance arms, namely Ford Tickford Experience (FTE) from 1999, and Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) from 2002 to 2014, with their production of modified Ford Falcon-based cars. Another rival, albeit on a smaller scale,[53] has been Corsa Specialised Vehicles (CSV) with its Commodore-based high performance cars that included the CSV GTS of 2007. CSV beat the HSV W427 to the market by being the first Holden vehicle powered by a 7.0L LS7 V8 engine.[54]

See also

References

External links

Loading related searches...

Wikiwand - on

Seamless Wikipedia browsing. On steroids.

Remove ads
Remove ads