HSV GEN-F range: overview

Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) has announced equipment and model-walk details for its VF Commodore-based GEN-F range.

Led by the supercharged 430kW/740Nm GTS, the new line-up has been touted as the "most significant" in the company's 25-year history. It features significant styling changes over the new VF donor car in all short-wheelbase variants and unique engine inlet and exhaust configurations, over and above the supercharged GTS headliner.

HSV will continue to offer all models from the E Series range including the recently released entry-level ClubSport and Maloo variants. New equipment builds the 'SV Enhanced' sub-brand while the long-wheelbase Grange will, like its Holden counterpart, benefit from many mechanical updates, but is largely unchanged in terms of styling.

The naturally-aspirated GEN-F V8 model range now offers 317, 325 and 340kW versions of HSV's LS3 6.2-litre mill. The new 340kW/570Nm models are offered under the exclusive 'SV Enhanced' label and feature bimodal intake and exhaust hardware. The former is shared with the GTS and is the benefit of HSV's renewed access to the global General Motors 'parts bin'.

Indeed, both the new 340kW V8 and the supercharged GTS model are strong indicators of the closer-than-ever ties HSV has forged with Holden and the global General Motors engineering operation. The GEN-F range is the first HSV model line-up developed in lock-step with its donor model.

HSV has also used advanced five-axis milling and 3D rapid prototyping to refine its unique body parts and interior updates. In comparison to the new VF Commodore donor car, the GEN-F features new front and rear fascias, bespoke tail-lamps, 20-inch wheels across the range (some forged for added stiffness and lighter weight) and a mix of mild to not-so-wild spoilers.

The end result is a much more cohesive design than previous generations. Dare we suggest HSV is growing up?

The interiors of the GEN-F have benefited from the significant step forward made by the Holden donor car. HSV has further enhanced the cockpits with a unique seat design and special finishes and fabrics that move upmarket in concert with the grade delineations. Additional gauges are fitted to most models.

HSV has also significantly revised the look and operation of its Enhanced Driver Interface (EDI). All of Holden's MyLink infotainment operations are carried across.

Also fully integrated is VF's significantly expanded line-up of driver aids and safety features. All GEN-F models from ClubSport through to GTS feature keyless entry/starting, parking sonar (front and rear), rear camera, blind spot assist, rear cross traffic alert, auto parking and auto electronic park brake.

Grades above ClubSport and Maloo also add Forward Collision Alert, a colour heads-up display and Lane Departure Warning.

On top-grade models, a multi-stage stability control program is just part of HSV's unique Driver Preference Dial. This system controls "a range of electronic vehicle performance systems" including (where fitted): the abovementioned stability and traction control; Launch Control (on manual transmission models); the range's new Torque Vectoring differential; third generation Magnetic Ride Control magneto-rheological adjustable dampers, bi-model exhaust and all-new electric power assisted steering.

The GEN-F range features all-new forged AP Racing brake callipers and larger rotors across the range. Four-piston front callipers feature on most models, while the GTS's brake package is truly supercar-spec (see separate story).

Continental tyres are default fitment across the line-up. HSV says the Euro rubber delivers "improvements in performance, ride quality and grip".

HSV has not announced pricing for the new range. However, with production of the naturally aspirated models due to start soon and cars headed for dealers mid-June, full pricing is only weeks away.

“Value for money has always been, and will continue to be, a key pillar of our success. While we’re not in a position to announce pricing just yet, I can assure our fans that they won’t be disappointed,” HSV boss, Phil Harding stated in the marque's PR bumpf yesterday.

Don't expect pricing on the GTS too quickly, however. Production of the 430kW bahnstormer will not commence until late August (2013).