The covers off -- we can now show you the new face of Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) -- and it's an aggressive one at that. Wearing the new E2 moniker and high intensity daytime running lamps, the latest HSV range has been perhaps the best kept secret of 2009.
In the face of errant internet teaser ads, an accidental photo leak from a Federal Government transport agency a fortnight ago, and one of Australia's key motoring magazines throwing a spanner in the works with subscriber copies breaking a strict embargo, full details of HSV's new E2 range have remained under wraps -- until now.
So what's new? The big news is that the flagship GTS returns to hero status, and has more power (325kW) and more performance than the rest of the HSV models. The other big news is that HSV has undertaken more visual changes from the base Holden stock than ever. This is especially important, in light of the fact that the MY10 Commodore has no external changes other than a badge and an extra exhaust pipe on the base model V6.
All HSV E2 short-wheelbase models get all-new front bumpers with Audi-Porsche-style LED daytime running lights, and (with the exception of the Seantor) the familiar twin nostril vented bonnet from the Pontiac G8. At the rear, E2 sedans get a technical-look bumper and large rectangular exhaust outlets similar to Mercedes-Benz AMG cars. The Maloo ute and Tourer wagon feature carry over rear-ends and pipes.
The alloy wheel design on every HSV E2 model is new (only the 20-inch Pentagons which are optional on Clubsport R8 and Maloo R8 are carry over) and, as our model by model coverage shows, the GTS now has 8.5-inch wide wheels up front for better cornering stability and grip -- and to accommodate the optional six-piston race-bred brakes from the W427 super sedan.
Thanks to: Car Point
