Holden & HSV: 2003 Sydney Motor Show

Coupe 4: Holden Special Vehicles took centre stage at the Sydney International Motor Show with the unveiling of a classy all-wheel drive coupe that showcases Australian performance engineering prowess.

The 'all paw' HSV Coupe 4 is evolved from Australia's favourite sports car, the Holden Monaro, which made its own high-profile debut at the Sydney Motor Show two years ago.

No futuristic concept, the HSV Coupe 4 goes on sale in June 2004 and will be priced under $95,000.

Holden Special Vehicles Managing Director, John Crennan, said technologically advanced vehicles such as the HSV Coupe 4 and the Avalanche AWD wagon (see below) signposted the new directions being taken by his company and Holden as they accepted the challenge of automotive change.

"For the astute driving enthusiast, the HSV Coupe 4 is a sports performance dream come true.

"It's the first of the Lion clan to show the sensational results that can be achieved when you apply advanced, home grown, all wheel drive technology to a low ride height, high performance vehicle. Believe me, it's an exhilarating driving experience," he said.

"The Coupe 4 gives us entry into a new performance vehicle category. We are confident that it will appeal to people who have traditionally chosen European marques and be responsible for bringing many first-time buyers to the HSV brand.

"Our current plans are to produce just 100 examples next year, which makes this a rather exclusive machine. Mind you, we will be happy to build more if that's required." Mr Crennan happily explained.

The Coupe 4 is equipped with an HSV-enhanced, 5.7-litre LS1 V8, matched to a four-speed automatic transmission. Peak power of 270kW kicks in @ 5700rpm, while 475Nm of torque arrives @ a low 4000rpm, giving it more push-in-the-back shove off the line.

The extra power over the standard Gen III V8 - and indeed the lower and more usable torque peak - is liberated thanks to a revised HSV inlet with new zip tube, which includes an HSV logo.

Furthermore, a lower airbox, HSV-modified exhaust system with 'High Flow' twin exit billet aluminium tips and dual stainless steel extractors (41mm primaries, 63mm secondaries) also contribute to power gains.

Combined with an HSV-tuned 'Quad Drive' full-time all-wheel drive system, together with ABD and EBD (and a 38% front, 62% rear torque split), the Coupe 4 completes the 0-100km/h dash in just 6.1 seconds, and the 0-400m sprint in 14.3 seconds.

Interestingly, HSV claims to have tested the Coupe 4 on unsealed surfaces, suggesting a 0-100km/h time of 6.6 seconds on the gravel.

"While the Coupe 4 packs plenty of punch with 270kW, it is proof that performance is not merely to do with outright kilowatts - it's about getting the available power to the ground.

"During testing, the Coupe registered a nought to 100 acceleration time of 6.6 seconds on gravel. Given this degree of traction, the Coupe 4 is able to handle most driving situations in a controlled and confidence-inspiring manner." Mr Crennan said.

The HSV Coupe 4 is equipped with a HSV Performance braking system comprising 336x32mm ventilated and grooved front discs and 315x18mm ventilated and grooved rear discs.

Its 19x8-inch inch alloy wheels are shod with super-sticky Pirelli P-Zero directional tyres, and HSV's unique AWD 'low ride' sports series suspension set-up delivers a flat, supple ride quality that complements its prodigious inherent handling abilities.

With plenty of basic evidence as to its sports capability, a wider than average stance, flared arches over 19-inch wheels, large air intake and a quartet of big bore exhaust outlets, the Coupe 4 design treatment is more Euro-chic than aggressive, giving way to an oversized Audi TT profile.

Incorporated into the well-balanced styling package are a unique grille, Senator-style front facia with mesh inserts, black bezel headlamps and High Intensity Discharge driving lamps, smoothly integrated wheel arch extensions, 19-inch alloys with HSV-embossed red front disc calipers, sculpted side skirts and technical mesh rear inserts.

Exterior finishes - Phantom Black, Sting Red and Quicksilver - can be colour co-ordinated with a choice of plush fabric or leather-trimmed interiors in Anthracite and Ochre.

To accommodate its all wheel drive powertrain componentry, increased track and larger wheels, the HSV Coupe 4 requires extensive sheet metal and chassis system modifications.

These modifications will be carried out on a new, dedicated production line at Elizabeth before the vehicles are transferred to the Holden Special Vehicles facility in Clayton, Victoria, to be hand-finished. HSV Coupe 4 production is scheduled to begin in May 2004.

HSV expects its new beast will be on sale by June 2004.

Avalanche: While Holden's Adventra (click here for full report) was one the big hitters for Holden, it was HSV who attracted the most attention.

Holden Special Vehicles has demonstrated its intention to enter the all wheel drive (AWD) market for the first time with a preview showing of the new Avalanche sports wagon.

Due to roll into HSV retailer showrooms in December, the Avalanche blends trademark HSV high performance capability and high visibility styling with sure-footed grip, all-road versatility and luxury-level specification.

Avalanche buyers will also appreciate the model's exclusivity -- HSV intends to produce just 500 examples in 2004.

To match the capability of Avalanche's 5.7-litre V8 powerplant, which produces 270kW of power @ 5700rpm and 475Nm of torque @ 4000rpm, there's the class-leading stopping power of an HSV performance braking system, comprising AP racing ventilated and grooved 336mm front and 315mm rear discs.

To demonstrate the system's effectiveness, in testing Avalanche recorded a zero to 100km/h and back to zero time in about 8.5 seconds.

That's plenty quick, and HSV also reckons the new 2026kg Avalanche can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.4 sec, and cover the quarter mile (0-400m) in 14.5 sec.

An all wheel drive torque split of 38 per cent front and 62 per cent rear gives Avalanche a characteristic rear-drive bias that enthusiast drivers will appreciate. The HSV AWD Touring Series-tuned suspension incorporates a level ride system.

The Avalanche benefits from an energetic design treatment emphasised by a striking front fascia, fog lamps, flared body-coloured wheel arches over unique 18-inch chrome shadow alloys (with 245/45 rubber), chrome shadow lower fascia highlights and a distinctive rear tailgate treatment.

An elevated ride height, wide stance and cleverly integrated underbody protection plates underline its multi-purpose nature. On top, there's a rear spoiler with full width LED stop lamp, a Euro-style roof rack and tailored sunroof.

Inside, the Avalanche's luxury character shows up in Senator-style touches like leather seat and door trim in Anthracite, Ochre or Red, depending on exterior colour choice.

Buyers also get a unique instrument cluster, console and instrument panel surrounds, while LED interior effect lighting (exclusive to HSV) emits a soft green glow to the cabin interior when night driving.

Further comfort and convenience features include a premium audio system with six disc CD player, subwoofer and 260W amplifier, dual zone electronic climate control, heated exterior mirrors, passenger side mirror which dips when reverse is selected and electronic rear park assist.

HSV Avalanche buyers can also choose the option of a Tyre Pressure Monitoring system, which uses radio frequency to check the temperature and pressure in each tyre and sounds an alarm when critical levels are reached. High Intensity Discharge driving lamps, which operate when high beam is selected, are also optional.

Thoughtful extras include a fire extinguisher and vehicle security is enhanced by the inclusion of HSV's DNA data dot theft deterrent system with individual vehicle ID.

With a ride height of 200mm (80mm higher than a conventional wagon), Avalanche provides a commanding driving position, easier entry and exit and a conveniently accessible rear cargo floor. The lower rear facia conceals a towbar and hitch too.

Crewman Cross8: The launch of the unique Crewman Cross 8 sports ute at the 2003 Sydney International Motor Show continues an unprecedented rollout from Holden of well-targeted niche vehicles that meet market demand for change and variety.

The locally produced, all wheel drive, four-door, V8-powered Crewman Cross 8 is a multi-purpose machine that is passenger car-derived – the only one of its kind in Australia.

Like the recently released rear wheel drive Holden Crewman (click here for a full report), the stylish and well-equipped Cross 8 is a ‘stretch’ four door ute which combines sedan-style accommodation, comfort and driving dynamics and heavy duty load capacity.

The Crewman Cross 8 shares its advanced all wheel drive system with the new Holden Adventra crossover wagon. It represents the first light commercial application of the traction control-based, permanent AWD Cross Trac system that has been developed by Holden specifically to suit the unique Australian driving environment.

Following the unveiling of a Cross 8 production prototype at the Melbourne Motor Show early last year, more than 150 keen would-be purchasers have ensured themselves a place at the top of the sales queue by placing firm orders with Holden retailers.

Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Peter Hanenberger, says the company is delivering on its promise to continue to introduce exciting new cars that anticipate trends and satisfy the market’s increasing appetite for change.

"I said at the time that the Crewman Cross 8 concept was the forerunner of good things to come. Since then we've complemented our mainstream model offering with the born-again One Tonner, the unique Crewman rear wheel drive range – and now the Adventra wagon and Crewman Cross 8 sports ute, which signal the start of a new all wheel drive era.

"They are proof, in the metal, of Holden’s ability to turn concept cars into reality much faster and more cost-effectively than ever before. And as this remarkable Crewman Cross 8 demonstrates, nobody combines innovation, performance, practicality and value for money in quite the same way," Mr Hanenberger concluded.

The AWD Cross 8 sports ute seats up to five people and has a maximum carrying capacity of 738 kilograms. Holden researchers say its multi-purpose nature and V8 sports performance orientation will suit buyers leading a ‘24/7’ life which revolves around busy outdoor working weeks, young families and weekend recreational interests.