HSV goes GXP

HOLDEN Special Vehicles (HSV) has followed Holden’s lead by applying the Pontiac G8 treatment to its most popular ClubSport sedan and Maloo ute models.

Due to join the HSV model line-up from March next year, the limited-edition 2010 ClubSport GXP sedan will be priced at $59,990 – a saving of $8000 over the HSV ClubSport R8 ($67,990).

Representing an even bigger price reduction and lowering HSV’s official entry price to just $53,990 is the Maloo GXP ute, which can be had for a whopping $9000 less than the Maloo R8 ($62,990) upon which it is based.

A total of just 750 HSV GXPs will be built, comprising 400 sedans and 350 utes. Automatic versions add $2000 to the price.

Both 2010 models take their styling from the Holden-built Pontiac G8 GXP sedan, the flagship model in a US export program for which HSV shared engineering development and validation resources.

Left: HSV Maloo.

Holden’s ill-fated G8 export program also co-incided with the development of the 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine for the HSV range, which debuted in May 2008, and both local GXP models will be powered by the same Corvette-sourced 317kW/550Nm V8 as the discontinued G8 GXP and the rest of the HSV line-up.

However, while the Maloo GXP will come with a unique HSV suspension tune, the ClubSport GXP’s suspension comes directly from the G8 GXP and both models will employ the US model’s specific Brembo brake package.

Although the ClubSport GXP also gains unique rear styling, the rest of the GXP package is as per the E Series 2 HSV range, including the new daytime running lights, front fascia, bonnet, fender vents and ClubSport interior features.

HSV’s move to utilise components from the parts bin of the G8 GXP, which was axed along with the Pontiac brand in the US earlier this year, echoes that of Holden, which released a limited run of G8-look SS V-Series Special Edition sedans and utes at no extra cost in October.

“We receive lots of enquiries about introducing a model to sit as an entry level to our brand, and the GXP program provides us this opportunity,” said HSV managing director Phil Harding.

“The HSV ClubSport GXP and HSV Maloo GXP represent an outstanding opportunity for HSV to complement its existing line-up with a limited-edition entry-level vehicle.

“Importantly, I have always said that in order for a car to wear the HSV badge it needs to satisfy three criteria - performance, handling and design. Clearly, these cars tick all three boxes.

“We have made the appropriate updates to ensure these vehicles are uniquely HSV yet still deliver for a customer looking for that entry level price point.

“The limited-edition ClubSport GXP and Maloo GXP represent an opportunity for us to attract new buyers to the HSV brand,” he said.