Unfortunately, Holden will officially cease engine and vehicle manufacturing in 2017, and that’s final. But until then, its special-vehicles partner will offer three limited edition 2016MY cars.
All three HSV models will be powered by a 456 HP V8. The first will be the “SV Black”, available in both ClubSport R8 and Maloo R8 guise.
Styling-wise, it’s based on the current supercharged ClubSport R8 LSA and Maloo R8 LSA, but it will feature unique SV Black elements, such as Satin Black 20-inch alloy wheels, black AP Racing forged 4-piston brake calipers, black door surrounds and lower door accenting, shadow-chrome exhaust tips and distinctive black badging. The theme will be carried at the interior as well, mirroring the supercharged models but with leather-clad sports bucket seats and unique sill and I.D. plates.
Production will commence in June and with prices starting at $62,990 ($45,533) for the Maloo R8 SV Black and $65,990 ($47,639) for the ClubSport R8 SV Black.
September will see two further and final LS3 limited edition models with the launch of of both “Grange SV” and the race-inspired ClubSport R8 “Track Edition”. HSV says the Australian ultimate performance limousine will be built in only 50 units as a final tribute to the name that will cease to exist at the end of October.
This variant will also come with 20-inch SV Rapier Gloss Black forged alloy wheels with black AP Racing forged 4-piston brake calipers and distinctive black accenting and it will be available to acquire for $86,990 (62,935).
Finally, the last of HSV’s “LS3” limited edition models will be the ClubSport R8 Track Edition, aimed at the motorsport enthusiasts. The same styling cues will be carried from the ClubSport R8 SV Black, although it will also feature some bespoke limited edition content of its own, including 20-inch “Blade” forged alloy wheels and yellow AP Racing forged 6-piston brake calipers – elements found solely on HSV’s iconic GTS model.
For track use, the spring and damper rates have been stiffened to reduce body-roll and improve corner-entry response, while a Hyperflow Performance spoiler and suede-covered sports profile steering wheel accentuate its track bias.
It will be available with a MSRP of $68,990 ($49,915), albeit only 150 units will be manufactured.
“With all three limited edition models, our focus has been on building vehicles that offer outstanding levels of content, exclusivity and value. We’re confident we’ve delivered on all counts and that our fan base will be eager to capitalise on this last opportunity to buy an LS3-powered HSV, especially at these prices”, said HSV’s Managing Director, Tim Jackson.