HSV VY II 2003 Review

What we liked
>> Strong V8 performance
>> Styling and comfort to match
>> Good value for money

Not so much
>> Less grippy sports seats
>> Clunky four-speed auto
>> Noisy 19-inch tyres

OVERVIEW
HSV has been turning family Commodores into high-performance sports sedans since 1987. As Australia's best-selling modified car builder, it sold around 3500 vehicles last year. In April 2003, the biggest threat in years to HSV's sales supremacy arrived in the form of Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) and the 290kW/520Nm Falcon GT range.

HSV's response in September is a 25kW and 35Nm boost to the 5.7-litre V8 that powers most of its range, taking peak output to a hefty 285kW and 510Nm. The engine gains and some new hi-tech features are the big news in HSV's mid-life upgrade of Y Series, which it says adds "more innovation and excitement across the range".

HSV claims some Australian production car 'firsts' with Y Series 2, including a new tyre pressure warning system, Xenon driving lamps and adjustable performance suspension. Continuing its run of 'collectors' models, the first 100 GTO coupes will be limited-edition versions, packed with extra features for an extra $4000.

The range-topping GTS sedan and coupe will be available by special order from February, 2004. The long-wheelbase WK Grange receives the bulk of Series II upgrades, including fresh styling and a host of new features. Just 100 of HSV's "ultimate luxury limousine" will be built in 2003 and a further 80 in 2004.

Like Holden's facelift of VY Commodore, HSV has not messed with a winning formula. Mostly subtle changes are designed to keep interest high until the arrival in late-2003 of three new models, including hi-po versions of Holden's AWD wagon and crewcab to be called Avalanche.

Price increases across the 9-model range are restricted to around one percent. Cheapest model is still the Maloo ute at $52,400, followed by Maloo R8 ($59,600), Clubsport ($60,200), and ClubSport R8 ($69,150). At the luxury end are Senator ($75,500), Senator Signature ($81,050) and Grange ($85,990).

FEATURES
It's only been a year or so since the last HSV makeover, and Y Series blend of sharp-edged styling and sporty interiors still looks fresh. Exterior changes include new '280' badges, and some new HSV-only colours: Syracuse, Ultra Violet and Impulse Blue.

ClubSport and Maloo get bigger 18-inch alloy wheels, while R8 gains 19-inch wheels, leather trim and performance suspension.Inside, ClubSport and Maloo get a new black cloth headliner to match the four spoke leather steering wheel. Senator and Signature get a pale-coloured headliner to go with light Shale leather trim, and a soft LED light to illuminate the centre console controls.

Grange is now based on Holden's more upmarket Caprice rather than Statesman, and boasts a long list of features including premium sound system, dual climate control, leather trim, DVD entertainment system and Holden Assist security system. Satellite navigation and sunroof are options. Exterior changes include a revised grille, 18-inch wheels (19-inch wheels are optional), lowered ride height, small rear spoiler and deeper front bumpers incoporating fog and cornering lamps.

To justify the extra $4000, 'LE' GTO Coupe gains Senator leather trim, roof spoiler, sunroof, and Signature 19-inch alloy wheels. It's available in three colours, and comes with all-important 'LE' badge and 'GTO LE' build plate.

COMFORT
HSV re-designed its range of sporty front seats in response to feedback from its big-boned customers.

The result is less 'aggressive' side bolstering for more shoulder room and extra under thigh support. While they're easier to slide into, particularly for big blokes, we found the less sculptured seats less suited to our skinnier frame.

We liked the grippy new leather steering wheel, though. Finding the perfect driving position is made easier with steering columns that adjust for reach and tilt and front seats that offer varying degrees of electric adjustability; four ways in the ClubSport, eight in R8 while Senator and Grange also get 'memory' settings. HSV 'bespoke' interiors include a white instrument cluster, sporty cloth or leather trim, and alloy pedals. Standard features across the range include CD disc changer, cruise control, power windows, climate control, electric mirrors, remote central locking and engine immobiliser. A roof-mounted DVD entertainment system is now available.

Grange takes rear passenger pampering to new levels - at least for a Holden - with copious legroom, two sculpted leather-lined pews and rear-mounted screens for playing DVDs, and separate air-conditioning vents.

SAFETY
Driver and passenger airbags, and side impact airbags, are fitted to all models. Front seats now get active head restraints - similar to VY2 Commodore - designed to prevent whiplash neck injuries. All models come with traction control, ABS and either performance or premium brake packages. Two new active safety features are available - electronic tyre pressure monitor, and High Intensity Discharge (HID) driving lamps. Both are standard on GTS, and optional on other models. Grange and Coupe also get rear parking sensors to asssist in crowded carparks.

MECHANICAL
The 5.7-litre V8 engine and exhaust system features a revised air intake, 'freer flowing' exhaust and engine calibration mods, to boost power from 260kW to 285kW at 5800rpm. Torque is also up to 510Nm at 4800rpm. As well as increasing output HSV claims a deeper engine and exhaust note. The heavy-duty four-speed auto, first introduced on the GTS, is now available across the range. It's designed to cope with the extra torque and provide smoother up-shifts. The six-speed manual is unchanged.The three suspension set-ups and brake packages are largely unchanged, except for the 'performance' suspension that has been revised for improved ride comfort without sacricing handling ability. Dubbed 'Performance 3' suspension, it comes standard on GTS and R8, and optional on ClubSport.

Grange features a 'prestige' suspension package including self-levelling rear suspension, a unique steering rack, and 'performance' brakes.

HSV claims another Australian production car first with its HSV-APS adjustable performance suspension. Standard on GTS and optional on R8 and GTO, the remote canister gas pressurised system allows the driver to dial-in any one of 22 adjustable 'bump' settings. It was designed in conjuction with Swedish company Ohlins Suspension and the Holden Racing Team.

COMPETITORS
Direct competition for ClubSport, Maloo and Senator come from FPV's three-model line-up. Falcon GT and GT-P sedan and Pursuit ute offer similar levels of performance, comfort, and features. The comparative models are also a close match on a value-for-money basis. However factors such as badge loyalty and racetrack success play an important part in this market, which could explain why HSV continues to dominate this niche segment.Secondary competition comes from other local hot-shots like Mitsubishi 'Ralliart' Magna, or 'entry level' European performance models from BMW or Mercedes-Benz.

Grange is in a league of its own. It's faster, better equipped and more expensive than any Ford long wheelbase offering. While luxury limos like 7-Series or S-Class are much more expensive and better equipped. Another thing going for HSV's finest is the free bottle of Grange for every buyer.

ON THE ROAD
We had the chance to re-visit a number of HSV models during a launch program that took us from the high-speed circuits at Holden's Lang Lang Proving Ground to some B-grade country roads in Melbourne's east. Not surprisingly, little has changed. HSV's distinctive styling still evokes envious stares from other drivers. In either ute, coupe, or sedan configuration, and rear wheel drive V8 platform, few can offer as much performance, comfort and thrills for the money.

The question is whether the extra kilowatts make a difference on the road. The Gen III V8 has been criticised for its lack of low-down pulling power, and HSV claims its latest version offers a better response across the rev range. It still takes a few revs to get going from idle, but once above 3000rpm there's plenty of mid-range punch right up to the 5800rpm redline. On the move throttle response is particularly strong, making overtaking a breeze. HSV claims better acceleration with Y Series 2, from 5.6 to 5.3secs for the 0-100km/h dash and 13.9 to 13.5secs for the 400m dash for the ClubSport manual. While it lines up better at least on paper with the GT's torquey 5.4-litre V8, HSV V8's more distant soundtrack is still no match for Ford's menacing rumble.

The Grange is the surprise package here. The muscular, Euro-influenced styling is backed up by performance and poise not expected in a vehicle measuring over 5m long and weighing around 1900kg. Steering feel is closer to ClubSport than Caprice, while the 'prestige' suspension with optional 19-inch wheels and Pirelli P-Zero tyres, provides a satisfying compromise between ride comfort and cornering ability.

The low-profile rubber doesn't do it any favours on coarser bitumen, though, feedback from rough surfaces often intruding into an otherwise quiet cabin. The four-speed auto is also not as as smooth and refined as you'd expect from an $85,000 grand tourer. Look beyond the cosmetic changes and value-added treats and Y Series II is all about taking the fight up to its main rival; bridging the gap in the all-important 'power' war. By year's end HSV's model count will reach 12, a move expected to boost HSV's annual sales in 2004 to 4500. It's your move, FPV.

BOTTOM LINE: Improved suspension and more power give HSV's latest added spice

Those condemned to driving the wife's shopping trolley tried their best not to turn green at the traffic lights when the ClubSport rolled alongside. But stolen glances in rear view mirrors and craned necks kinda gave the game away.

Crouched low on the asphalt on 18-inch alloys, liquorice-strap rubber and resplendent in high-gloss paint, the ClubSport does make something of a statement -- even when you're trying not to. A shopping trolley driver myself, I confess to feeling a little guilty for bidding my would-have brothers adieu without needing to reach for second.

The Clubby succeeds in offering sportscar performance and handling to those whose waistband hasn't yet crept up to armpit height without compromising everyday practicality. The car's generous internal room belies its actual dimensions: comfortably contoured cloth-covered four-way electric seats, big boot, ample legroom, forgiving ride and useful cabin features make the ClubSport a hit with families -- but this thing begs to be driven.

Packing an all-alloy 5.7-litre V8 engine that pumps 285kW and 510Nm, you get the impression that the ClubSport doesn't need all of its six gears. Second and third are the meat needed for around town, and it seems that every time you throw it into top on the highway, some jerk decides the fast lane looks inviting and slows down to enjoy the view. The ClubSport's economy can be significantly influenced by driving style, and we struggled to reach HSV's claimed 10litres/100km. Think 15s graced our scorecard.

Around the city, HSV's latest has plenty -- but it likes to drink. While I found the clutch throw a little long, it wasn't heavy, and it is possible to drive this car sensibly. Peak-hour was a snack. But the temptation's there: HSV claims engine improvements allow the V8 to breathe more efficiently. So efficiently, in fact, that it will do 0-100km/h in a respectable 5.3 seconds, and the quarter in 13.5 (with manual transmission). For a five-seater that's more comfortable than the average lounge chair, that's quite impressive.

Considering the absolutely abysmal condition of Melbourne's inner-city roads, the Clubby's HSV-tuned suspension handled things admirably. For a motorcar that sits flat and grips like buggery in high speed turns, surprisingly, knee-deep potholes didn't trouble it unduly. It's a pleasingly smooth, quiet, comfortable car.

It was nice to note that just because this car is a hottie it didn't automatically qualify as cringe-worthy inside. Dash and trim are tastefully finished in dark vinyl with imitation carbon fibre inserts; the leather wheel was really comfortable (with direct rack-and-pinion steering); black-on-white primary gauges were clearly visible, and it did not require an electronics degree to operate climate control, stereo, trip computer and so on.

The kids will love the six-stack, drop-down DVD -- and so will you, because it comes with two sets of wireless headphones. No more 'Wake Up Jeff'!

The six-stack Blaupunkt system was reasonable, as were the large wing mirrors, but I found the tall rear-end and spoiler on this vehicle obscured vision -- and the overall fatness of the rear-end contributed to a larger-than-average blind spot. No alarm for the headlights was also an annoyance, and electric forward-rear drivers' seat would have been a nice inclusion.

But the car is cohesive: It's a hell of a lot of fun to drive, looks sexy, and has enough features to please the family.