JUST weeks after Holden introduced its new VE Ute, Holden Special Vehicles has its own Maloo R8 version on the road, priced from $59,990. That’s about $1900 less than the outgoing model, but the more expensive six-speed sequential auto means you now pay an extra $2000 for that whereas it was previously free. Being based on a Holden that is priced from $31K, it is not the most refined vehicle in the world, with questionable handling and a lack of interior finesse, while visibility is terrible. Still, with a great ride and comfortable seats as well as some highly appealing features, the new Maloo R8 – there is no ‘base’ version available, for now at least – represents plenty of bang and visual impact for your buck.