- Joined
- Feb 2, 2003
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- 3,002
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- 428
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- 83
- Age
- 44
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- Adelaide
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- www.justcommodores.com.au
- Members Ride
- BYD Atto 3 / RAV4 Hybrid
HSV has done it again! As part of its substantially upgraded new Z Series range, Australia’s leading innovator in performance technology has unleashed another piece of awesome performance hardware – the 6.0 litre LS2 V8 engine.
In a stunning coup, HSV is able to offer local customers exclusive access to the remarkable benefits of GM’s very latest all-new Gen IV V8 powerplant just weeks after it made its world debut in the new US market C6 Corvette. HSV has worked closely with GM powertrain engineers, along with its Holden partners, to adapt this brand new engine to fit its premier performance range and adjust it to suit local conditions. With 297kW @ 6000rpm (305kW DIN) and 530Nm @ 4400 on tap the results are impressive, and the best news it this state-of-the-art power unit is standard for all Z Series RWD models, along with WL Grange and GTO Coupé.
While the introduction of the high output 6.0 litre LS2 was always going to steal the majority of the limelight, there is still plenty more to talk about when it comes to HSV’s Z Series. Indeed along with the new engine, virtually the entire drivetrain has been upgraded and is now very much unique to HSV.
In typical HSV fashion exterior styling makes a major statement with Z Series. Importantly, there is now a much clearer division between relevant models within the range. ‘Sports Performance’ continues HSV’s traditional aggressive, exuberant, in-your-face styling for Maloo, Maloo R8, ClubSport and ClubSport R8 while there is now a marked difference to the more sophisticated, Euro appearance of the ‘Luxury Performance’ models – Senator, Grange and GTO Coupé.
Just a few years ago 19-inch wheels were reserved for the likes of HSV’s GTS and imported supercars. However, for Z Series a freshly designed range of 19-inch alloy wheels and 245/35 ZR19 tyres become standard on all RWD models providing sizzling looks and performance to match the mighty 6.0 litre LS2 engine.
In recent models HSV has gained notoriety for its luxury appointments as well as its performance credentials and Z Series is no exception. Interior specifications on all models have been updated with premium quality materials that are more sophisticated in appearance and more luxuriant to touch. Senator and Grange step into the realms of the truly lavish with an interior trim specification that combines a superb new full grain supple leather and a sumptuous suede. And, this combination is available in a choice of two interior colours.
Thanks to HSV engineers the Maloo models once again claim a number of ‘firsts’ for a local sports ute with the launch of Z Series. For the first time customers can enjoy the benefits of 19-inch wheels and tyres, along with Traction Control and Multi-link independent rear suspension – and all of these features are totally
exclusive to Maloo models! Combine them with the outstanding performance of the 6.0 litre LS2 and you get a Maloo that’s even more controllable and enjoyable in a wider range of driving conditions.
A simplified model line up is also big news with the Z Series. Beyond ClubSport, HSV enthusiasts now have the simple choice of either more performance with R8, or more luxury with Senator. The Signature name is being rested with Z Series, making way for a new Senator specification for about the same price as the harder edged ClubSport R8.
The substantial list of exclusive updates seen on Z Series – in performance, appearance, quality and luxury – are positive proof of HSV’s relentless march towards greater differentiation from its Holden relatives and its determination to offer more sophisticated models backed with traditional hard edge performance.
6.0litre LS2 engine
As part of the fourth generation of GM small block V8 engines the 6.0 litre LS2 is the latest evolution of a spectacularly successful performance formula and a major step forward. The new engine was earmarked to debut in the recently released C6 model Corvette but it also had the ideal specification package for HSV’s own performance philosophy.
The HSV engineering team took on the major role of developing it to fit the Z Series range which included recalibrating the operating parameters of the engine management computer to suit local conditions and to deliver serious ‘all round’ V8 performance. As part of HSV’s now exclusive drivetrain the LS2 lives up to its rich performance heritage by producing 297kW @ 6000rpm (305kW DIN) and 530Nm @ 4400 – an increase of 12kW and 20Nm, respectively, over the LS1 engine.
As impressive as these figures are they simply don’t prepare you for the Z Series driving experience. The HSV enhanced LS2 displays a smooth and refined nature but its remarkably flat torque curve ensures that there are tremendous reserves of traditional V8 ‘grunt’ on tap virtually whenever and wherever the driver requires – just squeeze the throttle and go!
Upgraded drivetrain
The changes for Z Series have resulted in upgrades to virtually every drivetrain component making them exclusive to HSV models. The major highlights are listed below:
<ul>
<li>Tremec M12 six-speed manual transmission – as fitted to the Corvette – incorporating triple cone synchromesh (for a quicker, smoother and more enjoyable shift action) and lower ratios.</li>
<li>Heavy duty Corvette C6 type clutch with higher clamping pressure.</li>
<li>Unique safety feature which requires that the clutch be depressed before the engine will start.</li>
<li>Upgraded Turbo Hydramatic 4-speed 4L65E HMD automatic transmission featuring detailed internal modifications, a 10% higher stall torque converter and a smarter torque converter lock up clutch. Calibrated for a quick, firm, precise shift feel in response to customer feedback. LS2’s broad torque output makes the ‘Power’ mode unnecessary and so is deleted.</li>
<li>Tail-shaft diameter increased from 54.1mm to 60mm and wall thickness by 0.2mm.</li>
<li>HSV engineers develop a totally new tail-shaft for the Maloo and long wheel base WL Grange.</li>
<li>The unique-to-HSV differential incorporates a 3.46:1 ratio for manual and automatic.</li>
<li>The differential gear set is now shot peened for greater strength and durability.</li>
<li>The rear axle half shafts are strengthened with two plunging joints instead of one.</li>
<li>Latest generation Bosch ABS 8 system, including Electronic Brake Force Distribution.</li>
<li>Mechanical Brake Assist</li>
<li>HSV’s Performance Braking package up-rated with more rigid C6-type twin-piston front callipers for a higher clamping force and increased brake pedal feel.</li>
<li>Responding to customer requests the race-bred HSV - AP Racing Six-Piston Brake System is now optional on Maloo R8 and ClubSport R8.</li>
<li>HSV Adjustable Performance Suspension – developed in conjunction with Öhlins Suspension – is optional on ClubSport R8 and GTO Coupé</li>
</ul>
Z Series exterior styling
More than ever HSV’s Z Series models mark a clear demarcation between the company’s traditional ‘Sports Performance’ models and the sophisticated overtones of the ‘Luxury Performance’ models. It’s a factor that is clearly reflected in the captivating on road presence of the respective models.
The ‘Sports Performance’ face of Z Series is represented in the aggressive, street-wise visual cues found in the new body styling package for Maloo and ClubSport models. Prominent twin bonnet lines flow through the trademark twin nostril HSV performance grille to the blacked out lower intake. Road presence is further emphasised with the use of deep, wide-set, black driving light surrounds which flow from the outer headlamp line to create a typically aggressive HSV appearance with a greater impression of width. It’s complimented by new, more crisply defined headlights incorporating twin horizontal rows in the parking lights.
The new front facia integrates more powerfully into the side elevation where the side skirts are now body coloured. New HSV-unique fender vents add to the side view aggression factor and are finished in body colour with black mesh and an inbuilt repeater lamp. At the rear, sedan models boast a new, more integrated spoiler and detailed changes to body accent colours while Maloo models continue with their own bespoke rear end appearance including ice-cool twin exhaust outlets.
All Z Series models gain tremendous additional kudos from the fitment of 19-inch alloy wheels and wider Pirelli P Zero 245/35 ZR19 tyres. The two striking new styles – five-spoke for Maloo and ClubSport and multi-spoke in ‘Chrome-shadow’ for Maloo R8 and ClubSport R8 – are both open spoke designs which highlight the awesome HSV braking packages and HRT-red painted callipers.
Despite its more elegant overtones the Senator’s Luxury Performance styling package still delivers enormous HSV road presence from its deep facias, huge 19-inch, ten-spoke multifaceted alloy wheels and low sporting stance. Changes for Z Series have added an even greater air of European sophistication that
can clearly be seen in the bespoke front facia design which uses a chrome grille and chrome highlighted lower intake.
Twin chrome detail elements on the fender vents and driving light surrounds are also picked up in the twin horizontal rows of the parking lights. The HSV unique fender vents are finished in body colour with blacked out mesh, twin chrome bars and a repeater lamp. Senator is now a totally distinctive and more subtle package that’s going to prove very difficult to ignore for traditional buyers of premium European models.
To provide a clear warning of the performance potential under the bonnet all Z Series models feature sophisticated new badging highlighting the LS2 engine, its 6.0 litre capacity and its exclusivity to HSV.
Several new colours join the range, including Odyssey Grey, Barbados, Impulse Blue and Turismo on GTO Coupe.
Z Series exclusive interior upgrades
The individual character of the Sports Performance and Luxury Performance themes seen on the exterior of Z Series models are also carried over to the interior. However, though the themes differ, HSV’s underlying drive towards using premium quality materials is the same.
ClubSport and Maloo models feature a new cloth trim material called ‘Orbit’. Its three-dimensional appearance lends an athletic, technical feel to the interior and is available in two versions of its three-toned shading – grey or red. Each features matching colour keyed stitching and embroidered HSV logo.
Today’s ClubSport R8 and Maloo R8 boast a sporting interior ambiance backed up with an inviting luxury edge and that’s reflected in the full leather trim in ‘Anthracite’ which now features distinctive ‘micro-perforated’ leather seat inserts. They offer the dual advantage of being breathable for greater comfort and contrasting with the traditional leather bolsters for a more sophisticated appearance. The ClubSport R8 includes a contoured bucket style rear seat with adjustable rear head restraints.
With the major Z Series interior enhancements, Senator takes another giant leap up the premium luxury ladder with an interior that is a cut above that of many cold and impersonal prestige imports. The sumptuous cabin environment is created by a distinctive combination of two new premium quality materials used across seats and door trims.
Most seat surfaces and the door armrests are covered with premium quality Full Grain Nappa which has been dubbed ‘soft-feel’ leather. It’s a premium supple grade non-embossed leather (as opposed to the most commonly used automotive leather which is a ‘corrected grain’ or embossed product). HSV is the first Australian manufacturer to use this product which is also seen in several high-end prestige European brands. As the soft-feel name suggests, this plush material really is exceptionally soft to touch and here, it has been tautly trimmed for an even more elegant appearance.
Centre seat inserts and door trims are finished in Lismore suede – a luxuriant, velvety perforated suede that looks so good it just begs to be touched. It’s also hardwearing, has good grip to minimise occupants sliding around and can breathe via its perforations for greater comfort.
For Z Series Senator two distinctive versions of this luxury trim are available. The first sees an ‘Anthracite’ upper dashboard combined with a ‘Light Reed’ lower section and seat trim to create a very appealing, two-tone, traditional premium luxury environment. The second option is monotone dark ‘Anthracite’ throughout where perforation in the Lismore suede and the various textures of the different materials provide subtle variations in tone that work together to create a prestige, sporting European feel.
Z Series ClubSport and ClubSport R8
Along with the sensational 6.0 litre LS2 engine and upgraded drivetrain, Z Series ClubSport and ClubSport R8’s new HSV ‘sport performance’ body styling package and interior creature comforts are set to reinforce the pair’s position as prime choices amongst performance car enthusiasts.
ClubSport major changes
<ul>
<li>HSV enhanced 6.0 litre LS2 V8.</li>
<li>Upgraded Turbo Hydamatic 4L65E HMD electronic four speed automatic or</li>
<li>Tremec 6 speed M12 manual transmission with heavy duty Corvette C6 type clutch.</li>
<li>3.46:1 differential ratio, complete with shot peened gear set.</li>
<li>Latest generation Bosch ABS 8 system including Electronic Brake Force Distribution working with twin piston front, grooved rotor Performance brakes</li>
<li>19-inch alloy wheels with 245/35 Pirelli P Zero premium Z rated tyres, tuned HSV Touring suspension system</li>
<li>HSV Performance Brake system upgraded to C6 twin piston callipers.</li>
<li>Z Series ‘HSV Sports Performance’ body styling package.</li>
<li>New ‘Orbit’ cloth trim.</li>
<li>‘Nickel Pearl’ dashboard highlights.</li>
<li>New centre console storage bin.</li>
<li>Net storage pockets behind front seats.</li>
<li>HSV floor mats.</li>
</ul>
In a stunning coup, HSV is able to offer local customers exclusive access to the remarkable benefits of GM’s very latest all-new Gen IV V8 powerplant just weeks after it made its world debut in the new US market C6 Corvette. HSV has worked closely with GM powertrain engineers, along with its Holden partners, to adapt this brand new engine to fit its premier performance range and adjust it to suit local conditions. With 297kW @ 6000rpm (305kW DIN) and 530Nm @ 4400 on tap the results are impressive, and the best news it this state-of-the-art power unit is standard for all Z Series RWD models, along with WL Grange and GTO Coupé.
While the introduction of the high output 6.0 litre LS2 was always going to steal the majority of the limelight, there is still plenty more to talk about when it comes to HSV’s Z Series. Indeed along with the new engine, virtually the entire drivetrain has been upgraded and is now very much unique to HSV.
In typical HSV fashion exterior styling makes a major statement with Z Series. Importantly, there is now a much clearer division between relevant models within the range. ‘Sports Performance’ continues HSV’s traditional aggressive, exuberant, in-your-face styling for Maloo, Maloo R8, ClubSport and ClubSport R8 while there is now a marked difference to the more sophisticated, Euro appearance of the ‘Luxury Performance’ models – Senator, Grange and GTO Coupé.
Just a few years ago 19-inch wheels were reserved for the likes of HSV’s GTS and imported supercars. However, for Z Series a freshly designed range of 19-inch alloy wheels and 245/35 ZR19 tyres become standard on all RWD models providing sizzling looks and performance to match the mighty 6.0 litre LS2 engine.
In recent models HSV has gained notoriety for its luxury appointments as well as its performance credentials and Z Series is no exception. Interior specifications on all models have been updated with premium quality materials that are more sophisticated in appearance and more luxuriant to touch. Senator and Grange step into the realms of the truly lavish with an interior trim specification that combines a superb new full grain supple leather and a sumptuous suede. And, this combination is available in a choice of two interior colours.
Thanks to HSV engineers the Maloo models once again claim a number of ‘firsts’ for a local sports ute with the launch of Z Series. For the first time customers can enjoy the benefits of 19-inch wheels and tyres, along with Traction Control and Multi-link independent rear suspension – and all of these features are totally
exclusive to Maloo models! Combine them with the outstanding performance of the 6.0 litre LS2 and you get a Maloo that’s even more controllable and enjoyable in a wider range of driving conditions.
A simplified model line up is also big news with the Z Series. Beyond ClubSport, HSV enthusiasts now have the simple choice of either more performance with R8, or more luxury with Senator. The Signature name is being rested with Z Series, making way for a new Senator specification for about the same price as the harder edged ClubSport R8.
The substantial list of exclusive updates seen on Z Series – in performance, appearance, quality and luxury – are positive proof of HSV’s relentless march towards greater differentiation from its Holden relatives and its determination to offer more sophisticated models backed with traditional hard edge performance.
6.0litre LS2 engine
As part of the fourth generation of GM small block V8 engines the 6.0 litre LS2 is the latest evolution of a spectacularly successful performance formula and a major step forward. The new engine was earmarked to debut in the recently released C6 model Corvette but it also had the ideal specification package for HSV’s own performance philosophy.
The HSV engineering team took on the major role of developing it to fit the Z Series range which included recalibrating the operating parameters of the engine management computer to suit local conditions and to deliver serious ‘all round’ V8 performance. As part of HSV’s now exclusive drivetrain the LS2 lives up to its rich performance heritage by producing 297kW @ 6000rpm (305kW DIN) and 530Nm @ 4400 – an increase of 12kW and 20Nm, respectively, over the LS1 engine.
As impressive as these figures are they simply don’t prepare you for the Z Series driving experience. The HSV enhanced LS2 displays a smooth and refined nature but its remarkably flat torque curve ensures that there are tremendous reserves of traditional V8 ‘grunt’ on tap virtually whenever and wherever the driver requires – just squeeze the throttle and go!
Upgraded drivetrain
The changes for Z Series have resulted in upgrades to virtually every drivetrain component making them exclusive to HSV models. The major highlights are listed below:
<ul>
<li>Tremec M12 six-speed manual transmission – as fitted to the Corvette – incorporating triple cone synchromesh (for a quicker, smoother and more enjoyable shift action) and lower ratios.</li>
<li>Heavy duty Corvette C6 type clutch with higher clamping pressure.</li>
<li>Unique safety feature which requires that the clutch be depressed before the engine will start.</li>
<li>Upgraded Turbo Hydramatic 4-speed 4L65E HMD automatic transmission featuring detailed internal modifications, a 10% higher stall torque converter and a smarter torque converter lock up clutch. Calibrated for a quick, firm, precise shift feel in response to customer feedback. LS2’s broad torque output makes the ‘Power’ mode unnecessary and so is deleted.</li>
<li>Tail-shaft diameter increased from 54.1mm to 60mm and wall thickness by 0.2mm.</li>
<li>HSV engineers develop a totally new tail-shaft for the Maloo and long wheel base WL Grange.</li>
<li>The unique-to-HSV differential incorporates a 3.46:1 ratio for manual and automatic.</li>
<li>The differential gear set is now shot peened for greater strength and durability.</li>
<li>The rear axle half shafts are strengthened with two plunging joints instead of one.</li>
<li>Latest generation Bosch ABS 8 system, including Electronic Brake Force Distribution.</li>
<li>Mechanical Brake Assist</li>
<li>HSV’s Performance Braking package up-rated with more rigid C6-type twin-piston front callipers for a higher clamping force and increased brake pedal feel.</li>
<li>Responding to customer requests the race-bred HSV - AP Racing Six-Piston Brake System is now optional on Maloo R8 and ClubSport R8.</li>
<li>HSV Adjustable Performance Suspension – developed in conjunction with Öhlins Suspension – is optional on ClubSport R8 and GTO Coupé</li>
</ul>
Z Series exterior styling
More than ever HSV’s Z Series models mark a clear demarcation between the company’s traditional ‘Sports Performance’ models and the sophisticated overtones of the ‘Luxury Performance’ models. It’s a factor that is clearly reflected in the captivating on road presence of the respective models.
The ‘Sports Performance’ face of Z Series is represented in the aggressive, street-wise visual cues found in the new body styling package for Maloo and ClubSport models. Prominent twin bonnet lines flow through the trademark twin nostril HSV performance grille to the blacked out lower intake. Road presence is further emphasised with the use of deep, wide-set, black driving light surrounds which flow from the outer headlamp line to create a typically aggressive HSV appearance with a greater impression of width. It’s complimented by new, more crisply defined headlights incorporating twin horizontal rows in the parking lights.
The new front facia integrates more powerfully into the side elevation where the side skirts are now body coloured. New HSV-unique fender vents add to the side view aggression factor and are finished in body colour with black mesh and an inbuilt repeater lamp. At the rear, sedan models boast a new, more integrated spoiler and detailed changes to body accent colours while Maloo models continue with their own bespoke rear end appearance including ice-cool twin exhaust outlets.
All Z Series models gain tremendous additional kudos from the fitment of 19-inch alloy wheels and wider Pirelli P Zero 245/35 ZR19 tyres. The two striking new styles – five-spoke for Maloo and ClubSport and multi-spoke in ‘Chrome-shadow’ for Maloo R8 and ClubSport R8 – are both open spoke designs which highlight the awesome HSV braking packages and HRT-red painted callipers.
Despite its more elegant overtones the Senator’s Luxury Performance styling package still delivers enormous HSV road presence from its deep facias, huge 19-inch, ten-spoke multifaceted alloy wheels and low sporting stance. Changes for Z Series have added an even greater air of European sophistication that
can clearly be seen in the bespoke front facia design which uses a chrome grille and chrome highlighted lower intake.
Twin chrome detail elements on the fender vents and driving light surrounds are also picked up in the twin horizontal rows of the parking lights. The HSV unique fender vents are finished in body colour with blacked out mesh, twin chrome bars and a repeater lamp. Senator is now a totally distinctive and more subtle package that’s going to prove very difficult to ignore for traditional buyers of premium European models.
To provide a clear warning of the performance potential under the bonnet all Z Series models feature sophisticated new badging highlighting the LS2 engine, its 6.0 litre capacity and its exclusivity to HSV.
Several new colours join the range, including Odyssey Grey, Barbados, Impulse Blue and Turismo on GTO Coupe.
Z Series exclusive interior upgrades
The individual character of the Sports Performance and Luxury Performance themes seen on the exterior of Z Series models are also carried over to the interior. However, though the themes differ, HSV’s underlying drive towards using premium quality materials is the same.
ClubSport and Maloo models feature a new cloth trim material called ‘Orbit’. Its three-dimensional appearance lends an athletic, technical feel to the interior and is available in two versions of its three-toned shading – grey or red. Each features matching colour keyed stitching and embroidered HSV logo.
Today’s ClubSport R8 and Maloo R8 boast a sporting interior ambiance backed up with an inviting luxury edge and that’s reflected in the full leather trim in ‘Anthracite’ which now features distinctive ‘micro-perforated’ leather seat inserts. They offer the dual advantage of being breathable for greater comfort and contrasting with the traditional leather bolsters for a more sophisticated appearance. The ClubSport R8 includes a contoured bucket style rear seat with adjustable rear head restraints.
With the major Z Series interior enhancements, Senator takes another giant leap up the premium luxury ladder with an interior that is a cut above that of many cold and impersonal prestige imports. The sumptuous cabin environment is created by a distinctive combination of two new premium quality materials used across seats and door trims.
Most seat surfaces and the door armrests are covered with premium quality Full Grain Nappa which has been dubbed ‘soft-feel’ leather. It’s a premium supple grade non-embossed leather (as opposed to the most commonly used automotive leather which is a ‘corrected grain’ or embossed product). HSV is the first Australian manufacturer to use this product which is also seen in several high-end prestige European brands. As the soft-feel name suggests, this plush material really is exceptionally soft to touch and here, it has been tautly trimmed for an even more elegant appearance.
Centre seat inserts and door trims are finished in Lismore suede – a luxuriant, velvety perforated suede that looks so good it just begs to be touched. It’s also hardwearing, has good grip to minimise occupants sliding around and can breathe via its perforations for greater comfort.
For Z Series Senator two distinctive versions of this luxury trim are available. The first sees an ‘Anthracite’ upper dashboard combined with a ‘Light Reed’ lower section and seat trim to create a very appealing, two-tone, traditional premium luxury environment. The second option is monotone dark ‘Anthracite’ throughout where perforation in the Lismore suede and the various textures of the different materials provide subtle variations in tone that work together to create a prestige, sporting European feel.
Z Series ClubSport and ClubSport R8
Along with the sensational 6.0 litre LS2 engine and upgraded drivetrain, Z Series ClubSport and ClubSport R8’s new HSV ‘sport performance’ body styling package and interior creature comforts are set to reinforce the pair’s position as prime choices amongst performance car enthusiasts.
ClubSport major changes
<ul>
<li>HSV enhanced 6.0 litre LS2 V8.</li>
<li>Upgraded Turbo Hydamatic 4L65E HMD electronic four speed automatic or</li>
<li>Tremec 6 speed M12 manual transmission with heavy duty Corvette C6 type clutch.</li>
<li>3.46:1 differential ratio, complete with shot peened gear set.</li>
<li>Latest generation Bosch ABS 8 system including Electronic Brake Force Distribution working with twin piston front, grooved rotor Performance brakes</li>
<li>19-inch alloy wheels with 245/35 Pirelli P Zero premium Z rated tyres, tuned HSV Touring suspension system</li>
<li>HSV Performance Brake system upgraded to C6 twin piston callipers.</li>
<li>Z Series ‘HSV Sports Performance’ body styling package.</li>
<li>New ‘Orbit’ cloth trim.</li>
<li>‘Nickel Pearl’ dashboard highlights.</li>
<li>New centre console storage bin.</li>
<li>Net storage pockets behind front seats.</li>
<li>HSV floor mats.</li>
</ul>