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By
EWAN KENNEDY
28 May 2007
HSV's latest Grange carries on the traditions so well established by
previous models. Now based on the new WM series of long-wheelbase models
from Holden, this new Grange is aimed at the Australian driver who wants
more than simply a high-performance machine, they also want luxurious
travel.
So the Grange is positively crammed with upmarket items.
Including twin DVD screens, one at the back of each front-seat
headrest; rear park assist sonar, three-zone climate-controlled
air conditioning; leather trim and quality carpet. All of which
sits in a spacious body with stretch out room in the back seat.
A body with subtle yet effective styling changes to
differentiate it from the other vehicles in the HSV and Holden
ranges. The front has a bold look courtesy of special treatment of
the grille, bumper and spoiler. And the rear uses a wing that’s
integrated neatly into the design of the bootlid. Beneath that
sits a standout applique declaring in large letters this is indeed
a Grange.
Power comes from the 307 kW, 6.0-litre V8 engine that works so
effectively in other models in the E Series HSV range. Based on
the Chevrolet LS2 the engine has been specifically tuned to suit
Australian roads and our driving preferences.
The chassis benefits from the MRC (Magnetic Ride Control)
system that tunes the suspension dampers moment by moment
according to road surfaces and driving style. Thus giving
excellent control for good handling without taking too much away
from ride comfort. The MRC has been calibrated to suit the more
luxurious needs of a car in this class compared with the other in
the HSV range. But ‘sporting’ certainly comes into the
equation.
We have not had the opportunity to drive the new HSV Grange at
this stage, but will bring our comments on the drivetrain and
on-road dynamics when we do so.
Holden has done a very good job of producing a quality donor
vehicle to act as the basis for this new Grange. At the same time
it has reduced manufacturing costs. This allows HSV to sell this
latest Grange for only $82,990. A significant reduction on the
$89,950 asked for the previous WL-based series model that was
discontinued midway through 2006. Satellite navigation is a $1990
option on the new model.
We have said it before, but it’s worth repeating in regard to
this latest HSV Grange. The value for money offered by HSV models
is astonishingly good when you compare them to German cars that
are similar in size and price. You don’t get the prestige value
from an improved Holden that you do from an improved Benz or BMW,
but if you can live without an automotive boost to your image…
© Copyright
Marque Publishing Company
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