Holden axes V8 Adventra and One Tonner... Confirms 6.0-litre V8

Holden has confirmed its Euro 3 changes and announced it will discontinue some Commodore-based models. In a statement issue on December 30, the local marque confirmed changes to its Alloytec V6 and the arrival of a new V8 powertrain. It also stated it would discontinue its V8-engined Adventra all-wheel drive wagon and One Tonner light commercial series.

The axing of the Adventra was: "due to predominant sales of the V6 variants and the need to reduce manufacturing complexity at the Elizabeth, South Australia operations."

According to the statement, the One Tonner's demise is "due to preparations for the all-new Commodore in the second half of 2006." All One Tonners are discontinued, including the AWD Cross6 (pictured)

Though launched with much fanfare in 2004, the Adventra wagon has not been a sales success for Holden. Though the ratio of V8s sold has not been inconsistent with expectations, overall Adventra numbers have been substantially off target. The fact that V8 Adventra has been heavily discounted to bolster sales almost from day one would likely have impacted on the decision. The Adventra V6 (also pictured) continues.

The Cross8 also continues powered by GM's new L76 6.0-litre V8 (see below).

The new Euro 3 emission compliance rules which came into effect on Janurary 1 applies to all 2006 petrol engine cars and light commercial vehicles. They impose lower limits on exhaust emissions and restrictions on fuel evaporation.

Current exhaust emission limits (ADR 79/00 or Euro 2) restrict hydrocarbon and oxides of nitrogen emissions to 0.5 grams per kilometre and carbon monoxide to 2.2gm/km. Euro 3 (ADR 79/01) requirements restrict hydrocarbon emissions to 0.2gm/km, oxides of nitrogen to 0.15gm/km and carbon monoxide to 2.3gm/km.

According to Holden, the 3.6L Alloytec engine introduced in the VZ Commodore series in 2004 required only 'minor' changes to the engine, exhaust system and calibration to meet Euro 3 requirements. Changes included new fuel injectors and a new exhaust catalyst.

As previously reported, the changes did, however, sound the death knell for the Gen III 5.7-litre V8. This has been replaced by General Motor's 6.0-litre L76 alloy engine -- a member of GM’s fourth generation small block V8 family.

Running on 98RON premium unleaded, the engine delivers peak output of 260kW at 5600rpm and peak torque of 510Nm at 4400rpm.