WM Statesman

Packed full of features that include ESP, 17-inch alloys, projector headlights, LED tail lights and door mirrors with puddle lamps, the WM Statesman posed as a serious Euro alternative.

Inside there were six airbags, multi-function display, front and rear parking sonar and an 11-speaker 230-watt sound system. But the big news was in the back.

The Statesman’s long wheelbase afforded limousine-like rear legroom. Two engines were available: the High Output Alloytec 3.6-litre V6, which delivered 195kW at 6500rpm and 340Nm at 2600rpm, mated to a smooth shifting five-speed automatic.

The Gen IV 6.0-litre V8 was optional, mated to a six-speed automatic. The V8 developed 270kW at 5700rpm and 530Nm at 4400rpmFrom September 2010, Holden discontinuedi the Statesman nameplate with the introduction of the WM Series II facelift, halving the VE long-wheelbase sedan’s range to just two models.

Taking a downmarket dive was the WM Series II Caprice V6, replacing the outgoing Statesman V6 as the base model.