HSV releases E3 models, anniversary Maloo

Every new HSV now comes with the same type of 'track tracing' technology used by V8 Supercars and Formula One -- but they'll also be safer when backing out of a driveway.

As part of its E3 upgrade which, confusingly, coincides with the Holden Commodore's Series II upgrade, HSV used the opportunity of a standard touch screen across the range to cram a bunch of goodies inside -- and fit a rear view camera as standard on every model.

In addition to launch control, which was launched with the E2 upgrade last year, every new HSV will come with a Motec developed lap timing system that will plot the car's position on a race circuit.

A USB port hidden in the glovebox allows drivers to download their performance in a matter of seconds, and then analyse it on computer afterwards.

Or they can simply scroll through the in-car screen while in pit lane, waiting for their next turn. The system also shows G force in corners (and when braking or accelerating), exact throttle position and brake pedal pressure, among other key factors.

The system, called EDI, for Enhanced Driver Interface, takes HSV back to the grass roots of its brand -- enthusiasts who occasionally do weekend track days.

The EDI was inspired by a similar system used in the Nissan GT-R after a HSV executive sampled the Nissan's technology a couple of years ago.

However, HSV's EDI is much more advanced than the Nissan GT-R system -- and can even be used to trace your own circuit or add a new one in the future. All of Australia's existing race tracks, including Mount Panorama Bathurst, are pre-programmed into the system.

In effect, HSV has unlocked the black box data recorder inside the car's onboard computer and given the driver an insight into what's really going on.

With the E3 announcement HSV has also revealed that its Blindspot warning system, developed with Bosch, will be an option on all models (but standard on Grange).

Apart from the WM3 Grange gaining 325kW, there are no power upgrades for any other model in the HSV E3 range, and the only way to distinguish the E3 sedans from the outside is the new Commodore's bootlid bulge, a new HSV rear wing with a type of 'F duct', and the 'shockwave' exhausts tips that are now part of the rear bumper assembly (the muffler tips end just behind the rear bar now, ala Lexus IS-F, Ferrari 458 Italia, Suzuki Kizashi and others).

The rear appearance of the Clubsport wagon and Maloo ute are unchanged.

However, the Maloo did come in for some attention to help celebrate its 20th anniversary.

The 20th anniversary Maloo comes with the 'radioactive' 20-inch wheels from the GTS sedan, as well as new matte black inserts for the front fender vents and bonnet vents. The anniversary edition also comes standard with blindspot warning, and bi-modal exhausts as standard, which means it gets every option available. The anniversary Maloo also gets a rear camera that is now standard on the regular Maloo model.

The GTS 20-inch rims give the anniversary Maloo a wider front track because of the 8.5-inch wide rims (instead of 8-inch) and a unqiue suspension set up had to developed.

The rear sway bar was increased in diameter from 12mm to 16mm for GTS-like handling.

Despite the switch to the GTS 20s, which would enable the six-piston brakes to fit behind them, HSV has not made six-piston brakes an option on the Maloo or the anniversary Maloo.

HSV will build 100 anniversary Maloos in a range of colours, including two new colours: Hazard yellow and a graphite dark metallic grey.

Production and deliveries to dealerhips are due to begin at the end of September. Prices will be announced sometime next week.

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