Holden VE Sportwagon: Melbourne Motor Show Launch

Motoring Channel Staff - 21/January/2008

Melbourne, Australia — Holden has just released details of the full VE Sportwagon line-up, which will be shown in full production trim at the 2008 Melbourne Motor Show from February 29th.

The on-sale date is not yet clear. Holden says it will arrive in the 'first half of 2008'.

Australia's biggest car maker has yet to release pricing on its new glamour wagon, which is likely to begin at under $40,000 and will entail a similar range to the VE Commodore models, including both V6 and V8 engine types.

All Holden Sportwagon models will be equipped with reverse parking proximity sensors as standard.

Holden is hoping to entice former SUV buyers back to the family wagon with its new Euro-cool Sportwagon.

Most SUVs are essentially wagons with a raised ride height and higher seating positions, but are often much heavier, more expensive to run, and less agile than sedan-based vehicles.

Holden's ultra-modern wagon was first revealed at the 2007 Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, and according to GM Holden "boasts a sporty design and engineering advances that create a stylish yet practical wagon."

Philip Brook, GM Holden's marketing chief, said Holden would now have a Sportwagon for every type of customer: "This exciting vehicle will appeal to a whole new generation of private and user-chooser customers, while remaining a fleet favourite.

"We’ve expanded our wagon range from the three variants we had at VZ, to an impressive seven VE variants to ensure there’s a Sportwagon for everyone," said Brook.

With more variants than previous years, Holden is confident the new model will be a hit. The major selling points include the European design influences, improved cargo room, rear-wheel drive, and high levels of safety (ESP, airbags, etc).

"Sportwagon is the perfect addition to the VE Commodore range and will put excitement back into this traditionally conservative segment," predicted Mr Brook.

The full Holden Sportwagon line-up is as follows:

• Omega: Alloytec V6 with 4-speed auto transmission

• Berlina: Alloytec V6 with 4-speed auto transmission

• SV6: High Output Alloytec V6 with 5-speed auto transmission

• SS: Gen 4 V8 with 6-speed manual transmission or Gen 4 V8 with 6-speed automatic transmission (optional)

• SS V-Series: Gen 4 V8 with 6-speed manual transmission or Gen 4 V8 with 6-speed automatic transmission (optional)

• Calais: High Output Alloytec V6 with 5-speed auto transmission

• Calais V-Series: High Output Alloytec V6 with 5-speed auto transmission or Gen 4 V8 with 6-speed automatic transmission (optional)

Holden says the new models will feature 60:40 split rear seats, boot covers for extra security, and an innovative tailgate that requires less opening space while improving access to the large boot.

The Australian company released an overview for the new VE Sportwagon outlining the various highlights we can expect once the vehicle launches before the halfway mark of 2008:

Safety

Electronic Stability Program (ESP) standard on all models
Driver, front passenger and side impact airbags available on all models
Curtain airbags available on all models
Occupant protection system designed for the real world driving environment
Ultra-stiff body structure, multiple load path strategy and structurally optimised front & rear deformation zones

Technology

Rear Park Assist will be standard fitment on each model.
Zone-based front and rear park assist systems available on selected models
Roof-mounted DVD system available on selected models
 Integrated navigation system available on all models
Multi-function driver information display system
Bluetooth available on all models

Performance

The multi-link Linear Control Suspension system is the most advanced suspension design ever under a Holden
Large, fade-resistant brake systems help reduce stopping distances
Increased diameter wheel and tyre packages for braking and cornering control
Two V6 engine versions will be available, as on Sedan; An Alloytec 3.6 litre V6 with single exhaust, and the Alloytec High Output 3.6 litre V6 with dual exhaust
6.0 litre Generation 4 Alloy V8 coupled with a six-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed automatic transmission

Holden will reveal the production version of the all-new VE Sportwagon at the 2008 Melbourne International Motor Show, which kicks off on the 29th February.

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