Holden Special Vehicles


Holden Special Vehicles is the officially designated performance vehicle division of Holden. Established in 1987 and based in Clayton, Victoria, the company modified Holden models such as the standard wheelbase Commodore, long wheelbase Caprice and commercial Ute for domestic and export sale. HSV also modified other non-Holden cars within the General Motors portfolio in low volumes.
Vehicles produced by HSV have generally been marketed under the HSV brand name. However, in the early years, some retailed under the Holden brand in Australia whereas most cars for export retailed under different names.

History

Holden and Tom Walkinshaw Racing – an operation owned by Scottish racing-car driver and entrepreneur Tom Walkinshaw – established Holden Special Vehicles as a joint venture in 1987. HSV effectively replaced the Holden Dealer Team special-vehicles operation run by Peter Brock, after Holden severed its ties with HDT in February 1987 following the Energy Polarizer and "HDT Director" controversies. With the more recent demise of TWR's global companies, HSV still remains a partnership between Holden and Walkinshaw, the joint ownership company being Premoso Pty Ltd.
Since 1987 HSV has built an array of modified vehicles, most of which have been based on Holden models powered by either Holden or GM sourced V8 engines.
The first car developed by HSV was the Holden VL Commodore SS Group A SV of 1988, which was badged and sold by Holden for Group A touring car racing homologation purposes. It went on to win the 1990 Bathurst 1000 race. The first car developed, badged and sold as an HSV was the SV88.
HSV will begin converting Chevrolet Camaro muscle cars and Silverado pick-ups from left-hand-drive to right-hand-drive to GM's factory standards from the middle of 2018. The cars will be sold with a factory warranty via selected Holden dealerships. To cope with the expansion, HSV will move into new premises, also in Clayton, in early 2018. It expects to eventually boost job numbers from 130 to 150 staff once production ramps up.
With GM discontinuing Holden in 2021, Chevrolet plans to continue exporting the Camaro and Silverado to the Australasia region under a newly proposed formed entity, General Motor Specialty Vehicles, which would handle the distribution and conversion of key Chevrolet vehicles after Holden ceases operations, meaning that they’ll continue under the HSV arrangement.

Nameplates

The following is an alphabetical listing of the most notable and popular nameplates used by HSV.
; Avalanche
The HSV Avalanche is an all-wheel drive crossover SUV that was produced from 2003 to 2005. Based on the Holden Adventra LX8 crossover wagon, the Avalanche range also incorporated a dual-cab utility model known as the Avalanche XUV, derived from the Holden Crewman Cross8. The Avalanche has been built over the following series:
; ClubSport
The HSV Clubsport or ClubSport is a full size sports sedan that has represented the brand's highest volume seller since its introduction in 1990. It was based on the mainstream Commodore range and has been the entry-level HSV model except between 1995 and 1998, when that role was filled by the Manta range. In 1999, HSV introduced a higher specification known as the "R8". The Clubsport has been built over the following series:
; Coupé
The HSV Coupé is a high performance grand tourer that was produced from 2001 to 2006. It was based on the Holden Monaro, the Coupé adaptation of the third generation Holden Commodore. Its standard model range included the GTO and GTS. In 2004, the GTS was discontinued and the all-wheel drive Coupé4 introduced. Limited edition models included the GTO LE and GTO Signature. The Coupé has been built over the following series:
; Grange
The HSV Grange is a full size luxury sedan and it was based on the luxury Holden Statesman and Caprice twins. The Grange has represented the HSV brand's most top of the line, luxury offering to date. Since 1997, this nameplate has replaced both the HSV Statesman and Caprice models. The Grange has been built over the following series:
; GTS
The HSV GTS is a full size high performance sedan that was based on the mainstream Commodore range. Excluding the special V6-engined editions sold in New Zealand in the VN and VP series, the proper and original V8-engined GTS was introduced in Australia in 1992 with the VP series. The GTS has represented the HSV brand's most powerful offering to date. With the exception of the Z Series, when it was not part of the range, the GTS has been built over the following series:
; Maloo
The HSV Maloo is a performance utility that has been produced since 1990 and was based on the Holden Ute. Its distinguishing features have been high-performance V8 engines and full body kits. The name "Maloo" means "thunder" in an Aboriginal language. It is said that former HSV managing director, John Crennan, coined the name for the vehicle after reading a book on Aboriginal Australians.
In 2001, HSV introduced a higher "R8" specification. In June 2006, a regular production Z Series Maloo R8 broke the record for the world's fastest production performance pickup, at 271 km/h, beating the previous record holder, a Dodge Ram SRT-10 by 22 km/h.
The Maloo has been built over the following series:
The most powerful and developed version was the Gen-F 430 kW GTS Maloo, which was launched in November 2014. It featured GTS sedan mechanicals except for the Magnetic Ride Control suspension setup that, due to limited development opportunities, HSV left exclusively for the GTS sedan, Senator Signature and Grange. This Maloo was originally limited to 165 units, later increased to 250 plus 10 for export to New Zealand.
; Senator
The HSV Senator is a full size luxury sports sedan that was first introduced in 1992. It was based on the Holden Berlina and Calais twins. From 1997, HSV offered a wagon variant and a higher specification model known as the "Senator Signature". The Senator has been built over the following series:
; SV88
The HSV SV88 was the first car to bear the HSV badge and was designed to compete against HDT's luxury performance Director model car. The SV88 was launched in 1988 and based on the VL Series luxury Calais.
; W427
The HSV W427 was a limited edition flagship based on the E Series, which was released to celebrate the company's 20th anniversary in 2008. It was also a car produced to address the public disappointment caused by HSV canning its ambitious HRT 427 project previewed in 2002. It was powered by a LS7 V8 engine rated at at 6500 rpm and at 5000 rpm of torque.

Holden-based models by series

VL

The Holden VL Commodore SS Group A SV was the first car produced by HSV. Developed under contract to Holden, it was released in March 1988. Modifications were made to the standard Holden 5.0 litre V8 to produce at 5200 rpm and at 4000 rpm. Best known for the polarising body kit and bluish-silver colour, the VL Group A SS was also the first model to feature a fuel-injected version of the Holden V8, with the first electronic fuel injection VN Holden Commodore V8s not released until August 1988. The SV88 model was based on the VL Holden Calais and used a carburetored version of the V8 producing.
The range of vehicles for this series included :
ModelEnginePowerTorqueTyres0 – 100 km/h Standing 400 m Top speedRRP
Holden Commodore SS Group A SV4987 cc V8 @ 5200 rpm @ 4000 rpm205/55 VR 16 – Bridgestone RE716.9 s15.1 s
SV884987 cc V8 @ 4400 rpm @ 3200 rpm205/55 VR 16 – Bridgestone RE718.98 s16.44 s
SV F202962 cc I6 @ 5200 rpm @ 3200 rpm205/55 VR 16 – Bridgestone RE71
SV F20 Turbo option2962 cc I6 with turbo @ 5200 rpm @ 3200 rpm205/55 VR 16 – Bridgestone RE717.63 s15.5 s

VN/VG/VQ

A number of models based on the VN Holden Commodore were developed by HSV, the most potent of which was the Commodore SS Group A SV built for Holden's touring car homologation requirements. It featured an extensively modified version of Holden's 5.0 litre V8 to produce at 5200 rpm and at 4000 rpm coupled to a six-speed ZF S6-40 manual transmission as used in the Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1. Upgrades were also made to the suspension, tyres and brakes. Although a total production of 500 cars was original planned for racing homologation reasons, only 302 were ultimately produced in non-sequential order meaning that build number 450 may exist while build number 100 may not. The VN Group A SS was the last Holden built as a homologation racing special.
Other models used either or versions of the same V8 except the SV3800, which had a 3.8-litre V6. In 1990, the first HSV Maloo was released, based on the VG series Holden Ute of the time. The lighter Ute body provided a performance edge over the other HSV sedan counterparts. Models based on the long-wheelbase Holden VQ Caprice were released soon after. The SV90 and SV93 were treated with reworked suspension, wider front track and the V8. The Statesman 5000i featured.
The VN series also spawned HSV V6-engined regional models, which are less known and widely based on Holden Commodore models with HSV add-ons.
The range of vehicles for this series included :
and
ModelEnginePowerTorqueTyres0 – 100 km/h Standing 400 m Top speedRRP
Holden Commodore SS Group A SV4987 cc V8 @ 5200 rpm @ 4000 rpm235/45 ZR 17 - Goodyear Eagle6.5 s14.5 s253>$68,000

VP

With the release of the VP series, HSV began introducing independent rear suspension to its models as well as introducing new model names, Senator and GTS which continue to be used to the present day. While the entry-level Clubsport and luxury Senator are equipped with the V8, the high-performance GTS came standard with the version and HSV's premium brake package. LSD were standard across the range.
Following the appointment of award-winning designer Ian Callum as design chief for TWR, VR series HSV models benefited from a more cohesive and stylish body design. Upgrades were made to the 5.0 litre V8 to yield, while the GTS included a 5.7-litre stroked version producing 292 PS from May 1994 onwards. The VS series of 1995 introduced mild styling tweaks and a new three-spoke alloy wheel design. A value-oriented Manta was established as the base HSV model to broaden appeal. In 1996, a limited edition flagship GTS-R was created which came standard with the 5.7-litre V8, Tremec T56 six-speed transmission and "Hydratrak" limited slip differential package. Available only in a polarising bright yellow colour with carbon fibre inserts and large rear wing, the GTS-R engine could be blueprinted for more power. In total, 85 GTS-Rs were produced. The VS series II of 1996 introduced HSV's "Integrated Security System" as standard, which featured an immobiliser and different electronics configuration for each car produced in an effort to deter theft. In 1996, a new Statesman-based model known as the Grange replaced previous HSV Statesman models.
ModelEnginePowerTorqueTyres0 – 100 km/h Standing 400 m Top speedRRP
Maloo4987 cc V8 @ 4800 rpm @ 3600 rpm205/55 ZR16 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01
Manta4987 cc V8 @ 4800 rpm @ 3600 rpm225/50 ZR16 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01Sedan: $45,360, $46,675
Wagon: $48,640, $49,990
Clubsport4987 cc V8 @ 4800 rpm @ 3600 rpm235/45 ZR17 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01$49,790, $51,150
Senator 185i4987 cc V8 @ 4800 rpm @ 3600 rpm235/45 ZR17 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01$59,785
Senator 215i5737 cc V8 @ 4800 rpm @ 3600 rpm235/45 ZR17 – Bridgestone Expedia S-01$72,740
GTS5737 cc V8 @ 4800 rpm @ 3600 rpm235/45 ZR17 – Bridgestone Expedia S-016.20 s14.60 s$65,975

VT

This series was based on the all-new Holden VT Commodore range released in August 1997. It was the last series to be powered by Australian-made 5.0 litre V8 and the 5.7-litre stroker in the GTS. A Senator Signature wagon was introduced and was mechanically identical to the sedan counterpart. The VS ute bodyshell was retained for the Maloo. There were only 180 Manta units produced, after which this model was dropped from production due to its close competition with the donor Commodore SS model.
HSV's VT range included:
The range also comprised the XU8, which was built in limited numbers to carry last-ever Australian-made V8 engine.
The VT Series II represented a major update for HSV through the introduction of the new 5.7 litre GENIII LS1 V8, which saw Wheels magazine name the GTS as the fastest Holden ever at the time. The Manta and Senator Signature wagon were both dropped from the line-up due to poor sale performance. The flagship GTS presented many unique features such as a Callaway tuned version of the LS1, a 3.91 final drive ratio and the addition of toe-control links to its IRS design. The recent release of the new WH series Caprice in 2001 allowed the Grange to gain its new look. This series also saw the introduction of a supercharged V6 model named the XU6, which ultimately did not prove successful and was described as being agricultural against new competitors such as the Magna VR-X, which was rated a superior product in a direct comparison. For the first time, a more performance-oriented Clubsport was launched, known as the Clubsport R8. It came standard with HSV's "Performance" suspension and braking package, which were offered as optional extras on the Clubsport. Again, the Maloo remained available using the VS ute body shell.
HSV's VT Series II range included:
Acting on feedback from owners, HSV strove to differentiate its range of vehicles from the standard Holden offerings. To achieve this, HSV introduced more distinguishing bodykit and interior designs. This series also saw the LS1 engine output increase by. The introduction of the new VU Holden Ute allowed HSV to produce an all-new Maloo variant. A limited edition Senator 300 model also became available, equipped with the V8 and suspension modifications from the GTS.
The range included:
The VX range saw HSV offer its first Coupé models based on the new V2 series, in GTO and GTS spec. The latter replaced the GTS sedan but was powered by a less powerful engine. A Maloo R8 model was added with similar upgraded specification to the Clubsport R8. This series saw the addition of the XU6-Maloo, which was essentially a utility version of the XU6 sedan. This model was shortly discontinued due to a lack of demand. The special edition SV300 was introduced to replace the Senator 300. Toe-control links for the rear suspension was now fitted across the range in line with the Holden VX series update, for improved handling. The VXII update also brought with it the addition of Microdots across the range in order to reduce theft, a feature HSV refers to as HSV DNA.
The range now included:
Coinciding with the release of the VY Commodore, HSV produced the Y Series models adopting an even more distinguishing design and an alphabetical designation to further distance itself from donor Holden. While the GTS sedan returned, the XU6 was discontinued due to a lack of demand attributed to a perceived lack of extra power relative to Holden's supercharged V6 sedans. The twin kidney grille design first introduced on the VR series Commodore became HSV's new signature grille. Finally, the Senator range was split into entry-level Senator and high-end luxury Senator Signature models.
The range included:
;Y II Series
This upgraded range is characterised by a significant power increase to. Rumors followed that a new engine was due for release, with the development of GM's new LS2 nearly complete. This power upgrade closed the performance gap between HSV's mainstream models and the flagship GTS, which prompted speculation that the GTS was set for a power increase as well. An updated WK Statesman/Caprice from Holden also formed the basis for the new Grange. The GTO Coupé returned, and the forays of parent company Holden into AWD saw the introduction of the Avalanche, the XUV, and the Coupé4. The latter was particularly significant, as it was the first time that Holden's AWD system had been used in such a low-riding application. These new additions to the range made the Y Series II the biggest HSV range in history, with 16 variants.
The range included:
This series of HSVs were known as the "Z" Series, reflecting the fact they were based on the VZ-series of the donor Holden Commodore. This saw the introduction, across the range, of the new GM LS2 V8, which generated 297 kW. The AWD models retained the less powerful LS1. The lack of a GTS model in this series was attributable to the negligible power difference between the new LS2 models and a potential GTS, sparking rumors that the new LS7 V8 was going to be used in the next series. In lieu of the GTS, HSV released the SV6000, which was based on the Clubsport and limited to 50 units. A new WL Statesman/Caprice model also resulted in an upgraded Grange.
The Z-series was the first range with which HSV reached the Middle East with the one-make racing ClubSport R sedans, and it was the last series to be based on the 1997–2006 VT Commodore, which adopted the V-body.
On 25 May 2006, a standard 2006 HSV Maloo R8 driven by Mark Skaife was clocked at an averaged speed of 271.44 km/h in the Woomera, South Australia. The speed was recognised by the Guinness World Records representative, Chris Sheedy, as the Fastest Production Pickup Truck recorded. The speed improved over the previous record held by a Dodge Ram SRT-10 at 248.784 km/h but as many found out after the record was set, that the R8 wasn't actually 'stock' as it included a race cold air induction system and other performance modifications which allowed it to reach 271 km/h. The stock VZ Maloo R8 top speed is actually 249 km/h and it was awarded the "Fastest 'medium' size pickup" and thus the world record doesn't comply anymore because of modifications and different pickup size.
A revised range was launched in January 2006, and is designated as the Z Series MY06.
The limited edition Signature Coupe was HSV's farewell to the Monaro/GTO as the last two door coupe manufactured in Australia.
The range included:
In addition, in July 2005, HSV released upgraded manual-only Clubsport, Clubsport R8 and Coupé GTO fitted with optional 2-Stage "Dealer Team Spec" performance packages.

E Series

An all-new Holden Commodore chassis, known as the VE was unveiled in July 2006. Following this, a new range of "E" Series HSV models were released in August 2006.
Changes to the exhaust system yielded a increase in power for the LS2 to. Extensive modifications to the base VE Commodore sheetmetal and interior were introduced, most notably the unique LED taillights and distinctive side vents. The new GM 6L80-E 6 speed automatic transmission from the VE Commodore is offered, and Electronic Stability Control is standard on all models.
The GTS, Senator Signature and Grange additionally feature switchable Magnetic Ride Control to improve ride and handling. As such, the E Series represents HSV's most expensive model developments in its history, with the MRC suspension system alone costing A$4.5 million. In October, a new Grange model based on the Holden WM Caprice was released featuring the same V8 and MRC suspension as the Senator Signature and GTS, albeit with its own unique settings.
HSV also released a HSV Senator Signature SV08 which is released in a limited run of 20 manual and 30 automatic units. This model featured lower paint-outs, sill plates and extra chrome accents on the side mirrors and door handles. It was powered by a V8 engine developing 317 kW mated to a new Tremec TR-6060 gearbox and had 20-inch "Pentagon" wheels, Magnetic Ride Control suspension system with Sport mode and Park Assist system.
In August 2008, HSV launched its new flagship model, the W427. This car is based on the GTS, but carries a 7.0 L LS7 V8 engine along with larger brakes, strengthened gearbox, revised suspension and unique MRC settings. The W427 was the most powerful car ever made in Australia until the release of the Gen-F GTS, with power outputs of at 7000 rpm and at 5000 rpm. It is still the most expensive, at $155 500.
On 28 March 2008, HSV announced that the LS3 6.2-litre engine would be fitted to all E-Series models from April 2008. The LS3 power output is, whilst peak torque has not increased over the LS2.
12 May 2008 saw the announcement of a new HSV E Series model; the HSV "Tourer". This new model, based on the VE Holden Sportwagon was later officially released in September 2008.
The range included:
;E Series 2
The HSV E Series 2 range was released late 2009 and was the most major update since the release of E Series HSV's. Prices started at $65,990 for the Clubsport R8.
The range received many cosmetic changes with new front and rear bumpers, twin-nostriled bonnet and a new range of wheel designs. The Series 2 has a very distinctive look set of daytime running lights standard across the E2 range. On 9 September 2010, HSV released the E Series 3.
The new engines in the range are the 6.2-litre LS3 V8 used exclusively by the HSV GTS, with the rest of the E2 range being powered by an LS3 in trim. The new engines have also improved fuel economy by 4.2 per cent on the LS3 V8.
New is the intelligent launch controls, Competition mode ESC and Extended cruise control systems which are all standard for E2 models excluding intelligent launch control which is only available with a manual transmission.
;E Series 3
This last version of the E Series was released on 21 September 2010.
The noticeable changes between E Series 2 and 3 include the GTS power has been increased to, making it once again the top of the HSV list; the GTS E Series II price has been increased to $80,990; the HSV Enhanced Driver Interface, the new LPI system, LPG and unleaded fuel are $5,990 options on all models except the R8 Tourer; and the updated Holden VE II Commodore interior and new rear exhaust and rear spoilers.
ModelMSRP
Horsepower, engine
Maloo R8$64,990 @ 6000 rpm, 6.2 L
Clubsport R8$67,990 @ 6000 rpm, 6.2 L
Clubsport R8 Tourer$68,990 @ 6000 rpm, 6.2 L
Maloo R8 SV Black Edition$67,990 @ 6000 rpm, 6.2 L
Clubsport R8 SV Black Edition$71,990 @ 6000 rpm, 6.2 L
Clubsport R8 Tourer SV Black Edition$72,990 @ 6000 rpm, 6.2 L
Senator Signature$83,990 @ 6000 rpm, 6.2 L
GTS$82,990 @ 6000 rpm, 6.2 L
GTS 25th Anniversary$92,980 @ 6000 rpm, 6.2 L
Grange$88,990 @ 6000 rpm, 6.2 L

Gen-F

The Gen-F series, which is based on the VF Commodore series went on sale in August 2013. The HSV GTS became the most powerful production car ever produced in Australia, with and of torque. Its retail price was considerably higher than the equivalent E Series 3 models, costing over $90,000.
The range included:
Although the majority of HSV models are based on variants of the Holden Commodore, HSV has also produced a few cars based on other models part of the Holden lineup.

Astra SV1800

The HSV Astra SV1800 was released in 1988, and was based on the LD-series Holden Astra of the time.
It shared the same 1.8L engine as the standard Astra, but was released with extractors, sports exhaust and an aerodynamic sports body kit however, only 65 were made in both sedan and hatchback form.

VXR Turbo

The HSV VXR Turbo is a rebadged Vauxhall Astra which was imported from Belgium between 2006 and 2009. It has a 2.0 litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing and, coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission. Additionally it is equipped with the adaptive IDS suspension system along with ESC, traction control system, ABS and BA. The VXR Turbo was marketed without the Astra name.
Other than the original HSV VXR, a "Nürburgring" special edition was also launched in July 2008.

Jackaroo

This mid-size SUV was released in July 1993 and was a cosmetic upgrade of the Holden Jackaroo, which was itself the Australian adaptation of the second generation Isuzu Trooper. It was powered by the same 130 kW 3.2L SOHC V6 petrol engine as the donor Holden model.

Sportscat

The SportsCat is based on the Holden Colorado.

Models by year

The following is a chronological list of all HSV models since 1988, including limited editions and dealer specials.
1988
1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
In 2014, HSV reported the following production milestones:
HSV exported its range to New Zealand without any rebranding, as in the case of Singapore, where exports resumed in 2010 after a two-decade absence. From the 2000s, however, exports to the United Kingdom and Middle East, saw the cars rebadged Vauxhall and CSV, respectively.

Vauxhall

;HRT Maloo utility
Based on the VX HSV Maloo, it was fitted with a new bodykit featuring significantly flared wheel arches to accommodate wider track and 20-inch wheels. The roof was lowered and modifications made to the suspension to produce a "ground hugging" stance. The ute was powered by a LS6 V8 stroked to 6.2 litres with exhaust exiting from the side.
;HRT 427
Unveiled at the 2002 Sydney Motor Show, the HRT 427 was based on a modified Holden Monaro bodyshell and, among other things, it featured a V8 engine – hence the name. Due to the high cost specifications, the business case for full production failed since Holden could not built the 427 in such limited quantities for the original asking price of A$215,000. In all, only two road and four racing versions were ever built.
;GTS-R
This concept was unveiled at the 2004 Sydney Motor Show also based on the Monaro bodyshell. Similarities could be drawn with the HRT 427, however, this model was only intended for a one-make racing series and was powered by a modified 6.0-litre version of Chevrolet's LS2 V8 engine producing. This concept, too, never reached production.

Engines

GM 6.2-litre Supercharged V8 LSA

The supercharged 6.2L LSA is similar to the LS9 and debuted in the 2009 CTS-V. The LSA has been SAE certified at 556 bhp at 6100 rpm and 551 lb·ft at 3800 rpm. GM labels it "the most powerful ever offered in Cadillac's nearly 106-year history". The LSA features a smaller 1.9L capacity supercharger rather than the 2.3 L variant of the LS9. Other differences include a slightly lower 9.0:1 compression ratio, single unit heat exchanger and cast pistons.
A 580 bhp and 556 lb·ft version of the LSA engine is used in the 2012 Camaro ZL1. On 26 April 2013, HSV announced that this version of the LSA engine will also be used in the GEN-F GTS.

GM 7.0-litre V8 LS7

This engine was originally used in the sixth-generation Corvette Z06 that was then shipped over for usage in the W427. It made its first appearance in Australia in 2008. The W427 was designed and built to celebrate the 20th anniversary of HSV.

GM 6.2-litre V8 LS3

This engine debuted in the E Series. It is a GM built LS3 V8 customized for HSV's usage. The transition from LS2 to LS3 was primarily to meet impending Euro IV emissions requirements being introduced in Australia on 1 January 2009 and to compete against 2008's FPV GT.

GM 6.0-litre V8 LS2

This engine debuted in the Z series. It is a GM built LS2 V8 customized for HSV's usage.
One of the main reasons that this engine was used is that the LS1 V8 does not meet ADR 79/01 emissions regulations. This new engine also has connections to the L76 6.0-litre used in the VZ and VE Holden Commodores.

GM 5.7-litre V8 LS1

This motor started its debut in the VTII series of HSV sedans. It produced of power – more than HSV's previous "Stroker" 5.7 V8 used in the VT. It was a slightly de-tuned version, with less than when it was in the two-door sports body of the Corvette. Continuous modifications were made to the LS1 engine throughout its lifetime, reaching in the YII series, just under the GTS. AWD models such as the Coupé4 retained a similar configuration to other YII series models but were fitted with a more restrictive exhaust system, reducing power to. The LS1 was phased out for the new 6.0-litre LS2 in the Z Series. However, it was still used in the AWD models of the Z series.

GM 5.7-litre V8 LS1 (C4B)

This engine for HSV was available in 2 guises. The twin throttle bodied versions designed for racing use were available in the VL and VN Group A cars from 1988 and 1990 respectively. For the majority of HSV sedans using this capacity motor, the engines were modified versions of the standard EFI Holden V8. Note that there was also a VP equipped Clubsport 5000i that used the remaining 4 bolt main Group A blocks with SV5000 red motor ancillaries.
The LS1 replaced it in the VTII series.
1. A non-EFI version was fitted to the VL Calais SV88, producing at 4400 rpm and at 3200 rpm.

2. The VL SS Group A SV Commodore was the first Holden V8 to feature Electronic Fuel Injection.

HSV 3.8-litre supercharged V6

Available on the VT and VX series HSV XU6. Also only two HSV VX Senators were ever produced with a V6 Supercharged motor. There were several limited VT HSV sedans and wagons with the L67. This engine is a modified version of Holden's supercharged V6 with upgraded air intake and exhaust to boost power from the standard. Due to the popularity and superior performance of Ford's standard I6 engine, let alone the turbocharged variant, this model was removed from the line-up after the VY series.

VXR 2.0-litre Ecotec-4 Turbo

This 4-cylinder engine is used in the HSV VXR, a model based on the Vauxhall Astra VXR/Opel Astra OPC.

V8 Supercars

In 2005, HSV provided sponsorship for the V8 Supercar team formerly known as the Kmart Racing Team. The team adopted HSV Dealer Team as their new name. With Garth Tander and Rick Kelly driving the two cars, the newly renamed team struggled in its first few outings in 2005, they found form later in the season, and from round one led the 2006 Championship to victory. Rick Kelly won the 2006 series.. In 2007, Tander and Kelly won 17 races between them out of a possible 37, with Tander winning 15 of them and four round wins, winning the championship along the way. HSVDT also won their second Teams Championship in succession. The team was disbanded for the 2009 season. HSV's remaining sponsorship is with Walkinshaw Andretti United.

Rivals

HSV's direct rival was Ford Australia through its various performance arms, namely Ford Tickford Experience from 1999, and Ford Performance Vehicles from 2002 to 2014, with their production of modified Ford Falcon-based cars. Another rival, albeit on a smaller scale, has been Corsa Specialised Vehicles with its Commodore-based high performance cars that included the CSV GTS of 2007. This CSV beat the HSV W427 to the market by being the first Holden vehicle powered by a 7.0L LS7 V8 engine.