Monthly Archives: September 2006

Volvo XC90 V8

By Alborz Fallah | September 04th, 2006

Volvo isn’t exactly the first word that comes to your mind when you think of performance, infact, if you had to make a list of car companies and rank them in order of performance, Volvo will probably be down there with the likes of Proton Kia and dare I say, Hyundai.

Nevertheless, Volve have released a new beast, the XC90 V8 which pumps out a massive 232kW and 440Nm. In case you are wondering what the heck I am doing posting an article about a volvo, I figured its time we start taking volvo a little more seriously. The XC90 V8 will mark the first time Volvo Car has offered a V8 in Australia.

Volvo claims that the XC90 will get from 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds. Which really isn’t that fast, until you realize how bloody big the XC90 is! The unique, narrow 60-degree V8 is the first V8 in the world to exceed ULEV2 emissions requirements, what does that mean? Well, for a start you just have to look at the fuel economy which rates at 13.5L/100km combined (City & Highway).

Overall, the XC90 V8 offers 16 percent better torque and 16 percent better power than the XC90 T6 it replaces. The V8 engine will be mated to a six-speed automatic drivetrain for what Volvo claims will give smooth and refined driving dynamics.

The XC90 remains the only premium SUV to provide as standard seating for seven adults. The Volvo XC90 also rightfully claims to be the safest SUV in the world, and the first SUV in the world to receive a five-star NCAP rating.

I am a little scared of seeing Volvo Driving Soccer moms in control of a V8 volvo, some inner part of my brain has a funny sensation when I think of a 45 year old driving her only son to school in a V8 volvo, perhaps its that, fear of death feeling that I generally feel when I am around 4WDs. Although anything is better than the god damn Nissan Patrols or Toyota Land cruisers!

The XC90 V8 will arrive in Australian showrooms in early November (2006) priced at a RRP of $84,950.

XC90 V8 Prominent Standard Features:

4.4-litre V8
Six-speed automatic w/ Geartronic
Premium Sound w/ 6 in-dash CD stacker
Seven seats
Leather upholstery
18-inch Camulus alloy wheels
Power driver and passenger seats
IAQS (Interior Air Quality System) filtration
Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC)
Roll Stability Control (RSC)
Roll Over Protection System (ROPS)
Inflatable Curtain (IC) all three rows of seats
Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS)
Side Impact Protection System (SIPS)
Child booster seat (middle, 2nd row)
Rain sensing wipers
Heated front seats
Laminated side security glass

Bring on the Volvo driving Soccer moms!

Lexus LS460 Delayed

By Alborz Fallah | September 04th, 2006

I write a little bit some two weeks ago about the Lexus LS460 being launched in Australia later in the year (Nov 2006), despite all my praise and Lexus’ claim that the car will be here soon, CarsGuide reports today that the Lexus LS460 will be delayed!

I mean if you simply sit down and think, that the LS460 is going to come with an EIGHT speed automatic.. yes, 8, you can see why I am a little dissapointed. It appears that Lexus will now launch the LS460 alongside the LS600hL (the long-wheelbase V12 hybrid limousine) early next year. Current estimates suggest March 2007.

“It is imperative that LS460 and LS600hL both launch with significant feature advantages,” Lexus Australia divisional manager Scott Grant says.

“The LS460 introduced in Australia must be equal in specification to that in all world markets.”

Given the delay, the array of electronic gadgetry is set to increase with the 2007 arrival date. Originally the radar-based active cruise control and lane shift warning systems were not going to make it with the initial launch, however they both seem more likely to make it now!

Reports suggest that the decision to delay the Lexus LS460 came from Japan.

Pagani Zonda Review

By Alborz Fallah | September 04th, 2006

The following review was provided to us courtesy of Adam Kaplan from Hunter Holden

Driving the Zonda is a surreal experience.

You expect it to be difficult, after all, supercars are supposed to be quirky. They’re supposed to be difficult to see out of. They’re supposed to have hideously offset pedals and be claustrophobic and built for Italians with long arms and short legs. Well, I hate to disappoint you but the Zonda is none of these things.

The first thing you notice once you shimmy over the wide carbon fibre sill into the fitted seat is that everything falls quite naturally to hand….and foot. The pedals (there are 3, the way it should be) are directly ahead of you, all the ancillary controls are where you’d expect them to be and the seat and steering wheel adjustments allow for drivers of all sizes.

The vision out of the cockpit, both front and rear is excellent and whilst it’s obviously a 2 seater, it’s very airy and even with the carbon fibre roof fitted there’s a feeling of spaciousness in the cockpit.

Starting the car is a joy, the initial bark from the 7.3l V12 through the 4 centrally mounted exhausts is inspiring. It’s as sharp as a razor….with a deep purposeful throb added for effect. You just know that this car means business. In fact you’ll be tempted to turn it off and push that starter button again and again just to relive that initial rush.

The clutch, brake and accelerator pedal, as well as being beautifully crafted, are perfectly weighted and moving off requires no special thought. The steering feel transmitted through the perfectly sculptured steering wheel is superb. Looking out between the front wheel arches and gently gripping the steering wheel, you have absolutely no doubt that this is a car that you’re going to enjoy controlling.

For a car with such Herculean performance and body rigidity, the ride is incredibly supple, the suspension simply absorbs rough roads without any fuss and very little harshness is transmitted to the occupants….not at all what you’d expect of a supercar. The fact that it does this whilst at the same time offering no noticeable body roll, even when cornering extremely hard, is simply amazing.

And whilst the enormous torque would allow you to trundle along in 6th all day, even at 60kph, the sheer aural delight gained from blipping the throttle on downshifts ensures that you end up changing gears far more often than is required…..you just can’t help yourself.

So what’s it like to drive fast………perfect is the first word that comes to mind. The awesome power is obviously the first thing you notice when driving the Zonda hard, the urge simply never ceases. No matter what gear you’re in, just change up to the next one, floor it and the car continues to accelerate faster and faster. On the other side of the ledger the brakes are exactly what they need to be for a car with such extreme performance, solid and reliable and with a stopping time from 200kph to standstill of 4.5 seconds, hitting the anchors hard is just as inspiring as meshing the accelerator pedal against the carbon fibre firewall.

The other surprise is that the steering feel remains constant throughout the entire speed range, because the Zonda is so rock solid at extreme speeds, and we’re talking over 300kph here, there’s no feeling that you need to grip the steering wheel tighter to keep a hold of it, it’s actually just as relaxing at warp speed as it it around town, probably even more so because you’re not worried about any other traffic keeping up.

Pagani Zonda Wheels One of the lasting impressions indelibly imprinted on your mind after driving the Zonda is the sound from that circular exhaust stack. Below 4,500rpm all you hear is the glorious sound of what is effectively 2 straight sixes exiting together from the centre of the car. Put them together and that’s how you get that awesome V12 sound. Above 4,500rpm the induction noise takes over, right behind your head, and the sound of 12 cylinders greedily sucking vast quantities of air through 24 inlet valves envelops the cockpit. It’s fortunate that the Becker sound system is capable of adjusting it’s volume depending on the ambient noise in the cabin, otherwise you could miss the finer parts of whatever piece you’ve chosen to enjoy whilst thrashing one of the worlds greatest supercars………….but then who in their right mind is going to have music playing when there’s 7291 cubic centimetres of V12 bellowing away just inches behind your head and whatever scenery you’ve chosen for you enjoyment approaching at ever increasing speeds??

Subaru Liberty MY07 2007

By Alborz Fallah | September 03rd, 2006

A comprehensive list of refinements to Subaru’s ultra-safe All-Wheel Drive 2007 Liberty range includes the debut of the revolutionary Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) system. The expanded range includes reintroduction of the sporty GT, featuring a new award-winning turbocharged 2.5 litre horizontally opposed boxer engine.

The Model Year 2007 versions will be on sale Friday 8th September. With improved torque, it is now capable of regular running on 95RON fuel. New to the range are Liberty GT spec.B sedans and wagons, offering even greater choice of premium variants.

The SI-Drive system introduced on all turbocharged and 3.0 litre Libertys, offers optimum drivability and power delivery across the operating range, whether seeking a frugal drive, outstanding performance or in day-to-day traffic.

Pricing of some Libertys has decreased as much as 3.8 per cent while entry-level models remain unchanged. On range-topping GT and 3.0R spec.B variants, customers can now take pricing out of the equation on transmission choice – six-speed manual and five-speed Sportshift automatic versions are priced identically.

Sporting an exciting new look, Liberty introduces a wide range of innovations including:

* GT spec.B with Bilstein sports suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and the option of an STI-derived six-speed manual transmission
* HID self-levelling high and low-beam Bi-Xenon headlights on Liberty GT and 3.0 litre variants
* Telescopic steering wheels for every Liberty
* Power driver’s seat with dual memory function and dual zone air conditioning for range-topping Libertys
* Steering column Sportshift paddle controls on automatic Liberty GT and 3.0 litre versions, plus steering wheel audio, cruise, Information and SI-Drive controls.
* Interior refinements across the range
* Six-stacker in-dash CD players across the range – MP3 and WMA compatible
* Brake Assist for naturally aspirated 2.0 and 2.5 litre Libertys

All new Libertys retain their outstanding independent five star crashworthiness rating for occupant safety, from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).

Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia, said:

“This is our most comprehensive Liberty range ever. We are delighted to reintroduce Liberty GT with a bigger, and more refined award-winning engine and also add the option of a spec.B version, which has proved such a success in 3.0 litre guise.

“SI-Drive is a fantastic Subaru initiative that enables our customers to get the very best out of their driving, right across the operating range. It’s like having the advantage of three engines in one.

“Once again, engineers from Fuji Heavy Industries spent many days testing all this new technology in a variety of Australian conditions, ensuring suitability for our market.”

He added:

“We have a great pricing story too – there is no change on entry level models, while pricing is reduced by up to 3.8 per cent on 2.5i variants.

“With both GT and 3.0R spec. B variants, we’ve simplified pricing by making the manual and Sportshift automatic versions the same price, so customers can choose purely on the basis of transmission preference.

“There’s also a much more linear progression through pricing of the entire range, bringing aspirational models within reach of customers who may have previously found the margin too great.”

Subaru Intelligent Drive

Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) is introduced on turbocharged and 3.0 litre Libertys, offering three different driving experiences in the same car.

Drivers have the option to refine performance to suit their preferences.

SI-Drive can optimize fuel efficiency and ride comfort in stop-start city traffic, produce a lively response in flowing freeway or town traffic, or a rapid sporty drive on the open road.

It features three modes, each of which is clearly displayed on the instrument panel:

Intelligent mode ensures gentle, smooth power output. It may contribute to greater economy in congested city driving at low to mid-speed, when teamed with a smooth driving style, or cruising on the freeway. Ideal for those searching for ride comfort and frugal fuel figures.

Sport mode optimizes performance on city and highway drives. Good for routine, day-to-day driving.

Sport # mode boosts engine revolutions for sharp, sporty driving (cannot be used while the engine is cold). Provides dynamic performance for true driving enthusiasts through highly responsive engine and throttle control.

SI-Drive regulates the engine and transmission control units, and fine-tunes the electronic throttle control.

The control button is installed on the centre console. By pushing the dial, Intelligent mode is set. Sport mode is activated by turning the dial left and Sport # mode by turning it right.

There is also a steering wheel button to activate Sport # mode.

The modes can be changed while the car is moving.

The instrument panel includes an SI-Drive Multi-Function Display (MFD).

This communicates vehicle behaviour in the different modes. It includes an Eco gauge and Shift-up indicator (manual-only).

The needle of the Eco gauge stays in the green zone when fuel consumption is low, for the benefit of economy-minded drivers. Higher fuel consumption is indicated by the needle heading into the yellow zone.

The MFD shows comprehensive information about the power characteristics of the chosen mode via a simplified torque curve.

The Shift-up indicator, located in the tachometer on manual transmission models, uses a blinking indicator to advise the driver to change up a gear and save fuel when engine revolutions reach a certain level.

Internal testing by Fuji Heavy Industries, the maker of Subaru vehicles, indicates a vehicle driven in Intelligent mode can record up to 10 per cent more range.

Interior

Liberty’s dashboard, centre console and steering wheel are revised to produce an integrated and wholly contemporary look.

Instrument clusters of turbocharged and 3.0 litre variants feature a vast array of information in the multi-function display, including SI-Drive visuals, odometer, time, range, outside temperature, fuel consumption and open door warnings.

Attention to detail includes speedometer increments changed from five to two kilometres, for easier visual recognition.

All Libertys have steering wheel mounted cruise control buttons.

Turbocharged and 3.0 litre variants add steering wheel audio and SI-Drive Sport # mode controls, plus an “Information call-up” or I button. This can switch between six different information screens, using adjoining up or down arrow buttons to display:

* Odometer and trip meter
* Actual and average fuel consumption
* Outside temperature and continuous running time
* Drivable distance until refuel
* Current time (if vehicle is SatNav equipped)
* SI-Drive screen with graph

If a warning screen is displayed, drivers press the I button to identify the nature of the warning, such as door open or low temperature.

Automatic transmission GT and 3.0 litre models also gain Sportshift steering column “paddles” plus illuminated centre console cup holders.

Telescopic steering wheels, with 40 millimetres of travel, are new to every Liberty.

Turbocharged, 2.5i Premium and 3.0 litre Libertys also get power driver’s seats with dual memory function and rear window tint (side and back). GTs and 3.0R variants add dual zone air conditioning.

3.0 litre variants also get rear seat ventilation and dual cup holders in the rear centre armrest.

The premium McIntosh audio system shared by turbocharged and 3.0 litre Libertys is further enhanced with the addition of a 70 mm dashboard centre speaker, taking the speaker count to 14.

Audio systems in 2.0 and 2.5 litre Libertys get a new matt-finish facia, while all Libertys now offer six-stack in-dash CD players with MP3 and WMA compatibility.

The gearshift surround features a new circular design, while ashtrays are eliminated from all Libertys in line with customer feedback.

Cloth and leather trim patterns are revised in line with Liberty’s refined appearance.

Exterior

Liberty features a variety of exterior refinements that highlight its contemporary appearance.

Grilles, front guards, bumpers, light clusters and fog light surrounds all have new lines while distinctive new design alloy wheel patterns are introduced across the range.

State-of-the art High Intensity Discharge (HID) self-levelling headlights are introduced on all turbocharged and 3.0 litre Libertys, featuring both high and low beam Bi-Xenon.

Wing mirror design is refined to further reduce wind resistance and enhance visibility of the in-built indicator.

New colours to the range are:

* Newport blue pearl
* Satin white pearl
* Diamond grey metallic

Engine

Liberty GT’s new award-winning 2.5 litre turbocharged engine produces 184 Kilowatts of power at 6000 rpm in both manual and automatic variants. It offers the advantage of being able to run on cheaper 95RON fuel.

Torque is improved to 339 Newtonmetres at 3600 rpm.

Power of automatic transmission Liberty GT is up 4 kW, while manual versions are down 6 kW. This is due to the car’s ability to use lower grade fuel and also meet Australian emission requirements.

The engine recently won the 2.0 to 2.5-litre class of the International Engine of the Year Awards at the Engine Expo in Stuttgart, Germany.

It is also used in the Impreza WRX and Forester XT.

Liberty 3.0R and 3.0R spec.B feature Subaru’s Active Valve Control System (AVCS) and Variable Valve Lift, ensuring optimum power and torque output, fuel consumption and low exhaust emissions.

3.0 litre Liberty’s torque is improved at low revolutions, for refined pulling power. Torque is up 4.0 per cent between 1200 and 1600 rpm and up 3.0 per cent between 2000 and 2800 rpm.

Emissions are improved on 3.0 litre engines through changes to the camshaft profile, aiding combustion efficiency.

Transmission

Liberty GT spec.B offers the choice of the renowned six-speed STI-derived manual gearbox originally introduced in the 3.0R spec.B.

The constant mesh transmission is a development of that used in the Impreza WRX STI.

It is completely designed and manufactured by Subaru and features double synchronizer mechanisms on first, third and reverse gears, while second gear is equipped with a triple synchronizer mechanism.

The synchronizers provide consistent, smooth gearshift performance.

The transmission has large gears and bearings for added strength, while a positive lubrication system increases durability, using a vehicle speed-driven oil pump.

The transmission features Subaru’s well-known centre differential with viscous coupling, used on all its manual transmission vehicles, to provide 50:50 front and rear torque split to the All-Wheel Drive system.

There are two groups of gear ratios. First to fourth are close ratio for instant and efficient power delivery at low speeds.

Fifth and sixth gears are wider ratio for improved fuel consumption while cruising and reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) at high speeds.

Transmission casing and internal components are also designed to reduce NVH.

Clutch operation is optimized to produce a light feel.

An innovative aspect of the design is integration of the Electronic Throttle Control system with clutch actuation, reducing the likelihood of stall.

GT spec.B also has strengthened front and rear differentials. The premium Torsen rear limited slip differential (LSD) enhances driving performance.

In automatic transmission 3.0 litre and 2.5 litre turbocharged Libertys, smoother downshift is achieved by the introduction of “blipping” control. This optimizes engine and transmission synchronization.

For reduced NVH, manual GT spec.B and all 2.0 litre transmission tunnels have added insulation.

Suspension

Fuji Heavy Industries engineers undertook extensive local testing to produce optimum suspension set-up for the GT spec.B.

It features Bilstein suspension in line with its sports credentials.

This offers enhanced lateral rigidity and suspension performance to match the car’s weight distribution.

Safety

All MY07 Libertys maintain an outstanding independent five-star ANCAP crashworthiness rating for occupant safety.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive ensures stability and grip in all conditions.

Liberty 2.0R and 2.5i variants introduce Brake Assist. The ECU detects panic braking and automatically applies optimum force by assisting driver operation in a linear fashion, in minimal time.

Body rigidity on all Libertys is enhanced by the addition of a reinforced engine bay strut tower, a larger firewall corner panel and reinforcement of the sill at the A-pillar base. These measures also reduce NVH.

Security

All Libertys are equipped with the latest advanced engine immobilisers and DataDot theft protection.

For added security, all models have only one barrel lock, located in the driver’s door.

Sedans have remote boot release and wagons have remote tailgate unlocking.

Liberty MY07 pricing

These are retail recommended prices and do not include dealer and statutory charges.

Liberty 2.0R manual sedan 31,990 (No change from MY06)
Liberty 2.0R automatic sedan $33,990 (No change)
Liberty 2.0R manual wagon $33,990 (No change)
Liberty 2.0R automatic wagon $35,990 (No change)
Liberty 2.5I manual sedan* $34,990 (previously $35,990, -2.7 %)
Liberty 2.5I automatic sedan* $36,990 (previously $38,490, -3.8 %)
Liberty 2.5I manual wagon* $36,990 (previously $37,990, -2.7 %)
Liberty 2.5I automatic wagon* $38,990 (previously $40,490, -3.7 %)
*Formerly known as 2.5i Safety Pack
Liberty 2.5i Premium automatic sedan $41,490 (previously $42,990, -3.5 %)
Liberty 2.5i Premium automatic wagon $43,490 (previously $44,990, -3.3 %) Liberty 3.0R automatic sedan $50,990 (No change)
Liberty 3.0R automatic wagon $52,990 (No change)
Liberty 3.0R spec.B manual sedan $52,490 (previously $51,990, +0.96 %)
Liberty 3.0R spec.B automatic sedan $52,490 (previously $50,990, +2.94 %)
Liberty 3.0R spec.B manual wagon $54,490 (previously $53,990, +0.92 %)
Liberty 3.0R spec.B automatic wagon $54,490 (previously $52,990, +2.83 %)
Liberty GT automatic sedan – VDC $54,490 (Model not available in MY06)
Liberty GT automatic wagon – VDC $56,490 (Model not available in MY06)
Liberty GT automatic sedan – SatNav $56,980 (Model not available in MY06)
Liberty GT automatic wagon – SatNav $58,980 (Model not available in MY06)
Liberty GT spec.B manual sedan $55,990 (Model not previously available)
Liberty GT spec.B automatic sedan $55,990 (Model not previously available)
Liberty GT spec.B manual wagon $57,990 (Model not previously available)
Liberty GT spec.B automatic wagon $57,990 (Model not previously available)

Options:

Satellite navigation (2.5i Premium, GT spec.B, 3.0R) $2990
VDC and SatNav (3.0R spec.B) $3490

Holden WM Statesman Caprice

By Alborz Fallah | September 03rd, 2006

Holden Launches WM Statesman And Caprice Flagships

Holden officially launched its top-of-the-range WM Statesman and Caprice models, offering more differentiation from their short wheelbase siblings than ever before.

First revealed alongside the VE Commodore in mid-July, the all-new Holden flagships will make their Australian sales debut in September and set sail for export markets soon after.

The product of a $190 million investment on top of the $1.03 billion VE program, the new generation long-wheelbase sedans deliver benchmark levels of build quality, ride refinement, safety and spacious comfort for locally built sedans.

Holden has announced its pricing strategy for the prestige pair, with the V8-powered Caprice positioned under $70,000 and priced below the previous generation V6 model.

At $69,990, the new WM Caprice is $5400 less than the equivalent WL model, a drop of 7.1 per cent. The Caprice V6 at $65,990 is $4700 or 6.6 per cent below the previous model.

The new Statesman V6 and V8 models are priced at $58,990 and $62,990 respectively.

GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Denny Mooney, said WM Statesman and Caprice were flagship models capable of capturing worldwide attention.

“The WM models are confident, global designs which show that Australians can make truly compelling cars,” Mr Mooney said.

“Statesman and Caprice have more differentiation from the short wheelbase cars than ever before and the result is two stand alone vehicles with distinct identities.

“They are spacious, comfortable and offer fantastic ride and handling for cars of that size. Domestic and overseas customers will be proud to have these vehicles in their possession.”

WM Statesman and Caprice were launched at their place of manufacture, Holden’s Elizabeth plant in Adelaide, South Australia.

Since 1999, Holden has shipped more than 82,000 of its long wheelbase sedans to markets in the Middle East, China, South Korea and New Zealand.

In 2005, GM-branded models based on the WL series recorded export sales more than seven times higher than the number sold in Australia.

The major market for Holden’s long wheelbase cars, the Middle East, will again be the primary destination for WM.

Singular style

Holden designers took advantage of brand new body architecture to create the most individual offerings in the history of the Statesman and Caprice nameplates.

Characterised by a stretched silhouette and a wide stance accentuated by flared wheel arches, the WM series Statesman and Caprice make a powerful impression.

They differ significantly from their Commodore siblings despite sharing the same rigid basic body structure.

Major aspects of the interior design, including the instrument pad, cluster, centre console, seating, door trims, fabrics and finishes, are also exclusive.

Holden Design Director, Tony Stolfo, said the long wheelbase sedans were intended to stand apart and make their own statement.

“WM Statesman and Caprice had to echo the best elements of Holden DNA − mature design, great proportion, purposeful stance and style,” Mr Stolfo said.

“You notice immediately that they have real presence. In profile you can see that the longer rear door is the key to the dramatic new proportion, accentuated by a sweeping roofline and substantial wheel and tyre packages.

“We’ve maintained the fantastic interior dimensions these cars are renowned for and every aspect has been specifically designed to give our buyers a unique prestige driving environment.”

In classic saloon style, the radiator grille is the focal point of the front graphic. Housed on the ‘drop down’ engine hood, it incorporates the nameplates’ exclusive lion and wreath emblem.

Detail highlights include signature LED repeater lamps in the fender vents, striking LED tail lamps and bright chrome accents. The jewelled headlamp design is unique.

In a first for a locally manufactured car, Caprice offers advanced Bi Xenon headlamp technology. Light output from the high intensity discharge Bi Xenon lamps is up to four times brighter than halogen bulbs and the system features automatic levelling and integrated headlamp washers.

Overall styling themes for Caprice reflect a sports character whilst Statesman is prestige comfort orientated.

Caprice cruises on bold five spoke 18 x 8-inch wheels. Statesman rides on detailed ten spoke 17×7-inch alloys. There is a choice of nine exterior finishes, five of them new to the range.

Interior

Like the VE, the all-new Statesman and Caprice offer a spacious and safe passenger compartment with optimised storage, packaging and ergonomics.

Themes for the specialist interior design team were comfort, sophistication, harmony, luxury and attention to detail.

The expansive instrument pad features a wide binnacle, unique chrome-ringed instrument cluster and integrated centre stack with a high resolution 6.5-inch multifunction colour screen, zoned audio and climate controls and satin chrome detailing.

Generously proportioned seating is contoured differently for each model and tailored in twin-stitched leather trim. All doors have large storage boxes able to accommodate 600ml drink bottles upright and the storage compartment in the centre console is topped by a sliding armrest.

In the roomy rear, where longer doors make for even easier entry and exit, cup holders pop out of the seat base and the fold-down centre armrest incorporates a storage tray.

Feature highlights

Statesman has rich woodgrain accents and extensive standard equipment including eight-way electric front seats; visual front and rear park assist; auto rain-sensing wipers; 11-speaker, 230 watt sound system with six disc CD player and roof-mounted diversity antenna; MP3 and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity; night mode dash illumination and exterior mirrors with ‘puddle’ lamps.

Drivers can access 16 personalisation options and functions and a help function built into text screens explains features at the touch of a button.

New high-performance flat blade wipers have washer nozzles mounted on the arms and a high-tech acoustic windscreen dampens glass-borne noise.

Optional is a factory-fitted sunroof, designed to integrate seamlessly with the optional roof-mounted DVD player with wireless headphones, which can be dealer-fitted at any stage.

Caprice elevates the luxury level with authentic aluminium accent, deep-bolstered front sports seats with ten-way electric adjustment, ‘soft touch’ leather and suede trim.

There is a Bose premium audio system, remote control three-screen DVD with roof console and a Tri-zone electronic climate control system with foot level ducting to the rear compartment.

Further equipment includes a tyre pressure monitor and extra priority flip key memory preferences, such as seating positions for three drivers and exterior mirror placements.

Fully integrated turn by turn or full map navigation will be available later in the year, as will a choice of three telematics systems.

Safety systems

Safety systems for the WM Statesman and Caprice were developed in tandem with VE Commodore.

Their purpose is to help drivers avoid crashes and provide better protection should a crash occur by minimising intrusion into the passenger compartment.

Development began with the largest virtual crash modelling program Holden has ever undertaken. Emphasis was placed on considering the wide range of impact scenarios that occur in real world accident situations and differing occupant criteria.

Safety technologies were benchmarked against the world’s leading luxury brands and major engineering programs delivered a stiffer body structure and vastly increased usage of advanced strength steels.

Multiple load path strategies for frontal, side and rear impacts improve passenger compartment integrity. They are complemented by an improved multipoint airbag sensing system and an adaptive restraint system which includes dual stage front airbags, thorax side impact airbags, curtain airbags and front seat active head restraints as standard equipment.

Structurally optimised crush zones absorb crash energy and other occupant protection features include a steering column ride-down mechanism and breakaway brake pedal.

In terms of active safety technology, Statesman and Caprice come complete with the highly commended Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), traction control and anti-lock braking systems, electronic brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution.

Powertrain

WM Statesman and Caprice can be specified with a choice of V8 or V6 powerplants, matched to Holden’s smooth-shifting five and six-speed automatic transmissions with Active Select tap up/down control located on the shifter.

Both have all new, full length dual exhaust systems with twin or quad outlets according to engine size.

The Generation IV 6.0 litre V8 alloy (L98) engine delivers increased peak power and torque of 270kW @ 5700rpm and 530Nm @ 4400rpm using 98 RON fuel.

It benefits from performance-oriented calibration and a high-flow exhaust for responsive launch feel. The Alloytec High Output 3.6 litre V6 with new variable intake manifold also offers extra peak power and torque of 195kW @ 6500rpm and 340Nm @ 2600 rpm using 91 RON fuel.

Further refinements provide a livelier launch response, reduced drive noise and improved cold start and running performance.

Fuel economy (ADR081/01)

3.6-litre High Output Alloytec V6: 11.7 litres per 100 kilometres.

6.0-litre Generation IV V8: 14.4 litres per 100 kilometres.

Driving dynamics

Given the world-class structural stiffness of WM models, Holden chassis engineers had a solid base to work from in giving the vehicles a poised and responsive ride and handling character.

The introduction of new Linear Control Suspension has increased primary ride control attributes and isolation qualities and sharpened Holden’s traditional edge in chassis dynamics and ride comfort.

The refined multi-link system is the result of an eight-year development program. It has high lateral stiffness and a rubber isolated suspension frame that helps isolate the body from road imperfections and drivetrain vibrations.

It is supplemented among other advances by a forward-mounted steering rack, all-new larger brake systems and specifically developed wheel and tyre combinations.

The new brakes reduce stopping distance by around five metres. With lightweight aluminium calipers all round, increased pad area and larger rotors front and rear, they are more fade-resistant and provide a stiffer brake pedal feel.

There is a 16-inch V6 brake package and a 17-inch performance version for V8 versions.

A cleverly designed park brake is integrated into the centre console, allowing a simple switch for left-hand-drive and right-hand-drive applications.

Color selection