HSV ClubSport and Maloo return

HSV has released details of its MY12.5 range, timed to coincide with the performance brand’s 25th anniversary. Headlining the range is the return of the ClubSport and Maloo nameplates, which attract new drive-away pricing of $64,990 and $58,990 respectively. These models will sit below the ClubSport R8 and Maloo R8 variants to ensure its “entry price point remains competitive”, HSV said.

The entry-spec ClubSport is priced at just $64,990 (manual) and $66,990 (automatic) drive-away. It is powered by HSV’s 6.2-litre LS3 V8 outputting 317kW/550Nm and effectively features all the equipment found previously in MY12 ClubSport R8 models. The model also features equipment highlights that include 20-inch Pentagon alloy wheels, Sport Touring suspension, stability control with Competition Mode, four-piston brake calipers, satellite navigation and rear park assist with reversing camera.

HSV’s Enhanced Driver Interface (EDI) is available as a factory-fitted option for $1190, as are 20-inch SV Performance Forged alloy wheels in gloss black for $1250, bi-modal exhaust and EDI pack for $2990, Vector Vents for $590, and Luxury Lip Spoiler for $420.

These features are also available on entry-spec Maloo variants which features the same Generation Four LS3 V8 found under the bonnet of ClubSport models. Priced from $58,990 (manual) and $60,990 (automatic) drive-away, Maloo is equipped similarly to ClubSport, but adds Performance seats with four-way electric adjustment on the driver’s side and a soft tonneau cover.

For those preferring a hard tonneau cover, HSV will offer its standard hard tonneau in combination with the Performance Sailplane optionally for $3990.

In a bid to keep the E3 range fresh, MY12.5 ClubSport R8 ($71,500 manual MRLP), Maloo R8 ($65,500 manual MRLP) and ClubSport R8 Tourer ($72,500 manual MRLP) all receive a power increase to 325kW. All models also adopt as standard 20-inch Performance Forged alloy wheels in Blade Silver, leather upholstery, HSV’s Enhanced Driver Interface (EDI), stability control with Competition Mode, satellite navigation and rear park assist with reversing camera. Maloo R8 models add a hard tonneau cover with Performance Sailplane.

Optionally, all models are offered with the choice of 20-inch SV Performance Forged alloy wheels in gloss black for $1250 and Vector Vents for $590. Maloo R8 models are further available with optional six-piston calipers for $3790.

Senator Signature models also enjoy a power increase to 325kW, add 20-inch SV Performance Forged alloy wheels in a Dark Stainless finish and Side Blind Zone Alert. It is priced from $86,990 (MRLP) and is also available optionally with HSV’s six-piston brake package for $3790.

Finally, and in addition to the specification upgrades listed above, all vehicles will also feature the unique “25th Anniversary content”. This includes a HSV 25th Anniversary “start-up” screen, build plate, and internal identification and sill plates.

“We’re confident the return of the ClubSport and Maloo variants to the HSV range will keep our offer extremely competitive, and we like the way these vehicles measure up in the market place with such great drive-away prices,” said HSV’s General Manager of Sales, Darren Bowler. “We know we must continue to raise the bar to excite our customers, and our updated range delivers this in spades.”

The flagship GTS range remains unaltered for the time being, though we suspect HSV could be working on a revamped model to coincide with the Australian International Motor Show (AIMS) in Sydney this October (2012).

HSV’s MY12.5 range begins production on August 13 (2012).

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site