2013 Audi A3

HSV considering expanding range with new halo and entry-level models

 
1,682 views Dec 19, 2008

2008 holden hsv w427 001

HSV is considering a cheaper model based along the lines of the W427 as a permanent fixture in its lineup

HSV is considering a cheaper model based along the lines of the W427 as a permanent fixture in its lineup

Enlarge Photo
Earlier this week we reported that GM's Australian performance arm, Holden Special Vehicles, had capped production of its Corvette LS7-powered HSV W427 super-saloon at just 200 units. Now, the performance division is pondering a new halo car that would be price below the limited-edition W427 but that would remain a permanent fixture in its lineup.

The interest in the 505hp (375kW) HSV W427, which is based on the Holden Commodore, has inspired the company to branch out to expand its range. The W427 is currently selling for around AUD$150,000 ($102,000) in Australia, however HSV hopes to build a new model that would compete with European sports cars in the AUD$100,000 ($70,000) range once the production run of the W427 is completed.

Aside from a new halo model, the Australian-based performance company is also looking to include a number of less expensive, smaller cars in its lineup to give the brand a mass appeal, reports Drive.

Part of this expansion could also include producing a performance oriented variant of the upcoming Chevrolet Volt, and according to HSV's managing director, Phil Harding, the brand will also petition GM to import performance-focused versions of the Opel Corsa and Insignia models.

The Chevrolet Volt, meanwhile, has already been confirmed for an Australian release around 2012, making the possibility of a performance version not completely unfathomable. However, if the economic climate continues to worsen, the business case for bringing expensive, performance-oriented variants of GM cars into the Australian market may not fly.

Other changes at HSV include a renewed interest in alternative fuels, such as LPG and diesel. While traditionally HSV has been associated with big petrol V8 engines, the company is hoping to expand this brand image to appeal to a wider range of performance enthusiasts, who may not want a large performance sedan.
2008 Holden HSV W427 production
2008 Holden HSV range

HI-RES GALLERY: 2008 holden hsv w427 001

HI-RES GALLERY: ls3 hsv 01




Tags:
Posted in:
 
Contribute
Send us a tip Comment Contact the editor
Follow Us

 

Have an opinion?Join the conversation!

  • Posting indicates you have read this site's Privacy Policy and Terms of Use
  • Notify me when there are more comments
 

Have an opinion?Join the conversation!

Connect with Facebook

Motor Authority. Now with your friends.

Discover stories your friends read.
Share stories more easily.
You control what you share.
Learn more

Research New Cars

Go!


More from High Gear Media

 
 
MotorAuthority
  • Follow Us
  • Twiiter
  • Facebook
 
 
© 2011 MotorAuthority. All Rights Reserved. MotorAuthority is published by High Gear Media. Stock photography by Homestar, LLC. Send us feedback.