Holden HSV E Series Revealed

Press Release

Page 1 – GTS
Page 2 – ClubSport R8
Page 3 – Senator Signature

HSV E Series GTS - Born to lead

HSV's most aspirational and inspirational nameplate, the legendary GTS, returns as the top-flight E Series model and its remarkable list of specifications and features mark it as a more than worthy successor to its illustrious forebears.

It immediately stamps its authority with increased power, an awesome new braking system, high-tech suspension, more rubber on the road for greater grip and an on-road presence that points to its status as one of the fastest four-door sedans in the world.

Not only does it drive, stop and look better than any previous model, it also carries the best pricing proposition ever for a GTS.

Measured against any rival performance sedan, in any market across the world, using any criteria for comparison, the new E Series GTS is a born leader.

Styling and design

Whether on the road or standing still, the GTS is a car that demands your attention, no matter which angle you're looking from. The 'Sports Performance' styling package opens with a finely chiselled twin-nostril grille above a front facia that features a dynamic lower intake complete with V8 Supercar-like pseudo brake cooling ducts and a set of driving and fog lamps.

The side elevation is dominated by E Series signature fender vents (consisting of a totally unique to HSV fully metal pressed lower guard section) and the radical looking 20-inch alloy wheel design which deliberately exposes the awesome new HSV brake package, as well as emphasising the vehicle's rear drivetrain. A more distinctive and aggressive GTS appearance is created by 'Matt Black' bonnet header strip, fender vents and rear spoiler supports.

The rear statement is no less bold with a lower diffuser section that carries design cues seen in the storming GTS-R show car, a set of ultra-cool quad exhaust outlets and, arguably 'the jewel in the crown', LED rear lamps. Mounted below the rising side featureline, the hi-tech twin intercepting LED circles look stunning, as well as giving a low, wide look to the rear of the car. They're also a key point of differentiation since they don't just replace the Holden lamps - they actually require a new rear facia, rear fender cap, electrical body harness and mounting system. Further raising the overall level of visual sophistication is an HSV 'first', high quality, moulded mesh material used front and rear.

The interior is as overtly sporting as the exterior with colour combinations and quality trim materials carefully selected to reinforce the message. The bespoke GTS seats boast a fabulous race-inspired design that incorporates exceptionally generous side bolsters and its own exclusive centre bolster which are finished in suede for texture contrast and even greater lateral support.

For even more individuality there's a 'Red Hot' trim option which contrasts against the standard dark 'Onyx' trim throughout. Here 'Red' trim elements are set in relief against the dark lower and upper cabin trims to produce a seriously race-inspired interior character. Other sporting highlights include a unique HSV instrument cluster, as well as a smoothly integrated three gauge, dash top auxiliary cluster and a chunky design steering wheel rim.

Engineering and technology

Just as there will be no way of mistaking the GTS in terms of styling, there will also be no mistaking its outstanding abilities as a driver's car of world class proportions. Under the bonnet the unique-to-HSV 6.0 litre LS2 V8 now produces an even more exhilarating 307kW @ 6000 rpm (from 297kW @ 6000rpm) and 550Nm @ 4400rpm (from 530Nm @ 4400rpm) thanks to a revised intake and exhaust system (including new smooth flowing 'four-into-two-into-one' tubular extractors) and a 24 month program to refine the engine calibrations. That not only makes GTS (and its E Series stable-mates) the fastest HSV and one of the fastest sedans in the world, it also makes it a member of the ultra-elite 'four second' club.

A manual version - featuring an upgraded Tremec T56 six-speed manual with an improved gear shift mechanism for smoother and faster shifting - now takes a scintillating 4.96 seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint.

The all new automatic transmission - in the form of the 6L80 E six-speed unit - takes only fractionally longer and clocks just 5.04 seconds to reach100km/hr from zero. The new auto has been specifically calibrated to deliver smooth but firm up-shifts and includes a 'Tiptronic' function. As a true driver's car, it will hold selected gears without up-shifting, even when the engine is taken to the rev limiter.

In addition, HSV has invested heavily in unique differential ratios - automatics 3.27:1 and manuals 3.70:1 - aimed at producing extra launch urge.

Importantly, improved engine performance is matched by seriously-powerful braking performance. Developed in conjunction with AP Racing, the all new system consists of enormous (365mm front and 350mm rear) grooved and ventilated rotors complete with extremely rigid HSV specific four piston front callipers that reduce flexing and improve pedal feel and performance. There's also the latest HSV-tuned Bosch ABS system and more linear friction levels from the new brake pad material. Brake performance is now at the very top tier of world class with the GTS capable of stopping from 100km/h in just 36.0 metres, making it more than a match for a bevy of supposedly heavy hitting, mega-priced European sports models.

To its electronic driving aid arsenal, GTS now incorporates two pieces of cutting edge technology - Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Magnetic Ride Control (MRC). The ESC system has been developed, calibrated and tested specifically to HSV requirements to ensure it perfectly matched the GTS's new suspension technology, 20-inch diameter wheels and larger rear tyres and delivered improved overall safety levels without detracting from the traditional GTS driving experience.

MRC technology takes GTS into an all new realm with, not only the most sophisticated and advanced suspension systems fitted to any Australian manufactured vehicle, but also a system that offers a clear lead over most European manufacturers. Developed over 3½ years at a cost of $4.5 million, this electronically controlled damper system offers GTS drivers two modes - 'Performance' or 'Track' - that transform their vehicle from a luxury ride bias to race track inspired chassis at the press of a dash mounted button. Metal particles suspended in the magneto-rheological fluid within each damper respond to changes in an internal magnetic field to provide continuously variable damping force without any mechanical delays.

To further exploit the rear grip of the new chassis, the front and rear wheel sizes now differ in width - 8-inch front and 9.5-inch rears. Combined with the 20-inch diameter wheels on GTS (yet another HSV 'first' for the local market), it culminates in a massive 275 width rear tyre that provides simply extraordinary grip. New 20-inch tyres, developed specifically for the HSV range in conjunction with Bridgestone (featuring unique construction, belt angle and tread compound), are all about peak performance with fast response and high levels of grip. Indeed, in GTS, HSV chassis engineers recorded the best ever results in the high speed lane change test.

GTS highlights

- HSV enhanced LS2 6 Litre V8 (307kW and 550Nm)
- Upgraded M10 version Tremec T56 six-speed manual
- Optional 6L80 E six-speed automatic transmission
- HSV Premium Four-Piston Brake System
- HSV 'Sports Performance' body styling
- GTS specific body accenting
- Unique LED rear lamps
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Unique three-gauge dash-top binnacle
- Leather 'Performance' suede seats
- Optional 'Red Hot' trim (no-cost)
- ESC - Electronic Stability Control
- MRC - Magnetic Ride Control
- Unique HSV instrument cluster and steering wheel
- Front, side and curtain air bags - six in total

Page 1 – GTS
Page 2 – ClubSport R8
Page 3 – Senator Signature

HSV E Series ClubSport R8 - Taking the lead
As the most recognisable and popular nameplate in the HSV stable, ClubSport has always epitomised the brand’s core values of outstanding sporting performance combined with exceptional value for money but the latest E Series ClubSport R8 elevates that equation to a stratospheric new level. totally fresh from the ground up – with 301 individual and unique HSV enhancements, it brings even more street-wise road presence, more performance technologies and more driver oriented sporting appointments, yet the price is actually below that of the outgoing model.

While there is no doubt that it makes an extraordinary value for money offering, such are the incredible new credentials carried by E Series ClubSport R8 it’s now a high performance sporting sedan that can hold its head high against the world’s best either locally or in overseas markets.

Styling and design

In traditional HSV fashion, the ‘Sports Performance’ styling package makes a big, bold and very assertive statement. The finely chiselled twin-nostril grille tops a front facia that features a dynamic lower intake complete with V8 Supercar-like pseudo brake cooling ducts and a set of driving and fog lamps.

The side elevation is dominated by E Series signature fender vents (consisting of a totally unique to HSV fully metal pressed lower guard section) and the striking 19-inch alloy wheel design which deliberately exposes the awesome new HSV brake package, as well as emphasising the vehicle’s rear drivetrain.

The rear statement is no less bold with a lower diffuser section that carries design cues seen in the storming GTS-R show car, a set of ultra-cool quad exhaust outlets and, arguably ‘the jewel in the crown’, LED rear lamps. Mounted below the rising side featureline, the hi-tech twin intercepting LED circles look stunning, as well as giving a low, wide look to the rear of the car. They’re also a key point of differentiation since they don’t just replace the Holden lamps – they actually require a new rear facia, rear fender cap, electrical body harness and mounting system. Further raising the overall level of visual sophistication is an HSV ‘first’, high quality, moulded mesh material used front and rear.

The interior, too, is all new with a totally integrated appearance that creates a strongly upmarket sporting character. Colour combinations and quality trim materials have been carefully selected to reinforce the message and there’s a unique ClubSport R8 sporting seat design. Sporting highlights include a unique HSV instrument cluster, as well as a smoothly integrated three gauge, dash top auxiliary gauge cluster, incorporating ventilation vents and a chunky design steering wheel rim.

Engineering and technology

While styling makes a breathtaking first impression, it’s also backed up with extensive engineering program and injection of technology that’s just as outstanding.

ClubSport R8’s unique-to-HSV 6.0 litre LS2 V8 now produces an even more exhilarating 307kW @ 6000 rpm (from 297kW @ 6000rpm) and 550Nm @ 4400rpm (from 530Nm @ 4400rpm) thanks to a revised intake and exhaust system (including new smooth flowing ‘four-into-two-into-one’ tubular extractors) and a 24 month program to refine the engine calibrations. That not only makes ClubSport R8 (and its E Series stable-mates) the fastest HSV and one of the fastest sedans in the world, it also makes it a member of the ultra-elite ‘four second’ club.

A manual version – featuring an upgraded MIO Tremec T56 six-speed manual with an improved gear shift mechanism for smoother and faster shifting – now takes a scintillating 4.96 seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint.

The all new automatic transmission – in the form of the 6L80 E six-speed unit – takes only fractionally longer and clocks just 5.04 seconds to reach100km/hr from zero. The new auto has been specifically calibrated to deliver smooth but firm up-shifts and includes a ‘Tiptronic’ function. As a true driver’s car, it will hold selected gears without up-shifting, even when the engine is taken to the rev limiter.

In addition, HSV has invested heavily in unique differential ratios – automatics 3.27:1 and manuals 3.70:1 – aimed at producing extra launch urge.

Importantly, braking performance is also at the very top tier of world class. Developed in conjunction with AP Racing, it consists of enormous (365mm front and 350mm rear) grooved and ventilated rotors complete with extremely rigid HSV specific four piston front callipers that reduce flexing and improve pedal feel and performance. There’s also the latest HSV-tuned Bosch ABS system and more linear friction levels from the new brake pad material.

To its electronic driving aid arsenal, ClubSport R8 now incorporates the cutting edge technology of Electronic Stability Control (ESC). It has been developed, calibrated and tested specifically to HSV requirements to deliver improved overall safety levels without detracting from the traditional HSV driving experience.

ClubSport R8’s HSV ‘Touring Suspension’ is tuned for driving enjoyment. It incorporates more linear springs (less progression) to enhance the initial steering inputs and delivers an agile, responsive feel, as well as front rebound springs (inserted in the shock absorber) which effectively reduce front roll to give a sharper turn-in feel. The longer wheelbase of the new chassis brings a bonus in a smoother, more compliant and refined ride quality.

To further exploit the rear grip of the new chassis, the front and rear wheel sizes now differ in width – 8-inch front and 9.5 inch rears. 19-inch wheels remain standard and they’re joined by new tyres specifically developed in conjunction with Bridgestone and featuring unique construction, belt angle and tread compound tuned to the ClubSport R8 suspension system.

ClubSport R8 highlights

- HSV enhanced LS2 6 Litre V8 (307KW and 550Nm)
- Upgraded M10 version Tremec T56 six-speed manual
- Optional 6L80 E six-speed automatic transmission
- HSV Premium Four-Piston Brake System
- HSV E Series ‘Touring Suspension’ package
- HSV ‘Sports Performance’ body styling
- Unique LED rear lamps
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Unique three-gauge dash-top binnacle
- Sports cloth seats
- ESC – Electronic Stability Control
- Unique HSV instrument cluster and steering wheel
- Front, side and curtain air bags – six in total

Page 1 – GTS
Page 2 – ClubSport R8
Page 3 – Senator Signature

HSV E Series Senator Signature– Lead a Corporate Takeover

With an elegant, individual sense of style combined with traditional HSV hard edged performance cues, the all new E Series Senator Signature offers the ultimate in an Australian luxury/sporting sedan. Styling is deliberately more understated than it’s overtly sporting siblings yet it still has enormous roadpresence that bares comparison to the best Europe has to offer.

However, the irony is that, for all its elegant overtones and luxurious appointments this model carries all the performance hallmarks found in an GTS and, therefore, is classified as one of the fastest four-door sedans in the world. for buyers who have traditionally shopped amongst the prestige european marques the all new E Series Senator Signature is a genuine alternative and offers extraordinary value for money.

In its price bracket the opposition looks seriously under powered, under equipped and over priced yet to find a model that actually matched Senator Signature’s level of performance, driver oriented technology and luxury features would require an outlay of over twice the price of this outstanding HSV model. in E Series Senator Signature, HSV’s executive express is truly leading the pack.

Styling and design

E Series Senator Signature continues with this model’s distinctive ‘Luxury Performance’ styling theme which offers an excellent top of the range the alternative. The emphasis is on restrained elegance giving subtle clues to the model’s true performance potential.

Front and rear facias are totally unique – the front featuring an understated premium European-style chrome grille complemented by a thin chrome surround for the lower intake. The chrome theme continues on the fender vent slats and the window surrounds.

The fender vents create a strong visual effect and consist of a totally, unique to HSV, fully metal pressed lower guard section. Elegant 10-spoke 19-inch alloy wheel add further sophistication to the side elevation.

At the rear there’s a subtle lower diffuser, a set of four premium exhaust tips and a flush mounted rear spoiler. A more slender appearance is afforded to the entire vehicle thanks to the use of a ‘Matt Black’ accenting strip running around the lower body.

Hi-tech LED rear lamps – featuring twin intercepting LED circles – make a visually dramatic statement. Mounted below the rising side feature-line, they give a low, wide look to the rear of the car. They’re also a key point of differentiation since they don’t just\ replace the Holden lamps – they actually require a new rear facia, rear fender cap, electrical body harness and mounting system.

Interior styling is everything you would expect in HSV’s premium luxury/sports model. Colour combinations and quality trim materials have been carefully selected to reinforce the sophisticated individual character and unique seating offers excellent lateral support and sumptuous comfort.

Senator Signature also offers a no-cost option of ‘Light Urban’ trim which is designed to contrast to the standard dark ‘Onyx’ trim throughout. By using classic horizontal colour elements set in relief against the dark lower and upper cabin trims, it creates a high class interior ambience that’s very much typical of European flagship models. Other sporting highlights include a unique HSV instrument cluster, as well as a smoothly integrated three gauge, dash top auxiliary cluster and a chunky design steering wheel rim.

Engineering and technology

While Senator Signature takes a more subtle approach to styling, it certainly delivers against the very highest performance benchmarks. Under the bonnet the unique-to-HSV 6.0 litre LS2 V8 now produces an even more exhilarating 307kW @ 6000 rpm (from 297kW @ 6000rpm) and 550Nm @ 4400rpm (from 530Nm @ 4400rpm) thanks to a revised intake and exhaust system (including new smooth flowing ‘four-into-two-into-one’ tubular extractors) and a 24 month program to refine the engine calibrations, positioning Senator Signature as one of the fastest luxury/sports sedans in the world.

Now standard with an all new 6L80 E six-speed automatic transmission it takes just 5.04 seconds to reach 100km/hr from zero. The new auto has been specifically calibrated to deliver smooth but firm up-shifts and includes a ‘Tiptronic’ function. As a true driver’s car, it will hold selected gears without up-shifting, even when the engine is taken to the rev limiter.

As a complete performance package, brake performance is now also at the very top tier of world class. Developed in conjunction with AP Racing, the all new system consists of enormous (365mm front and 350mm rear) grooved and ventilated rotors complete with extremely rigid HSV specific four piston front callipers that reduce flexing and improve pedal feel and performance. It’s backed up by the latest HSV-tuned Bosch ABS system and more linear friction levels from the new brake pad material.

Electronic driving aids are a major feature of the E Series range and Senator Signature receives the full arsenal, including ABS, Traction Control and two new pieces of cutting edge technology – Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Magnetic Ride Control (MRC). The ESC system has been developed, calibrated and tested specifically to HSV requirements to ensure it perfectly matches the Senator Signature’s new suspension technology and delivers improved overall safety levels without detracting from the traditional HSV driving experience.

The advanced technology of the all new MRC system instantly gives HSV’s luxury/sports model a significant edge over every locally manufactured vehicle and all but a precious few European models. Developed over 3.5 years at a cost of $4.5 million, this electronically controlled damper system offers Senator Signature drivers two modes – ‘Luxury’ or ‘Performance’ – that transform their vehicle from a luxury ride bias to race track inspired chassis at the press of a dash mounted button. Metal particles suspended in the magneto–rheological fluid within each damper respond to changes in an internal magnetic field to provide continuously variable damping force without any mechanical delays.

To further exploit the rear grip of the new chassis, the front and rear wheel sizes now differ in width – 8-inch front and 9.5-inch rears. 19-inch wheels remain standard and they’re joined by new tyres specifically developed in conjunction with Bridgestone and featuring unique construction, belt angle and tread compound tuned to the hi-tech suspension system.

Senator Signature highlights

- LS2 6 Litre V8 (307kW and 550Nm)
- 6L80 E six-speed automatic transmission
- HSV Premium Four-Piston Brake System
- Exclusive ‘Luxury Performance’ body styling
- Unique LED rear lamps
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- U nique three-gauge dash-top binnacle
- Leather ‘Performance’ suede seats
- Optional ‘Light Urban’ trim (no-cost)
- ESC – Electronic Stability Control
- MRC – Magnetic Ride Control
- Unique HSV instrument cluster and steering wheel
- Front, side and curtain air bags – six in total
- Rain sensing wipers
- Rear roof mounted DVD Player