- Responsive 5.0-litre V8 engine
- Competent dynamics
- Four-speed automatic transmission provides clunky downshifts
- Impractical as an actual utility
- Limited interior storage
- Below average interior fit and finish
HSV VR Maloo (1993-95)
Overview
Released in August 1993, the HSV VR Maloo was a rear-wheel drive, performance utility. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Notting Hill, Victoria, the rear-wheel drive ClubSport was based on the Holden VR Ute and powered by a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine that was mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. Production of the VR Maloo was limited to 156 vehicles.
In December 1994, HSV relocated its operations from Notting Hill to Clayton, Victoria.
V8 engine
The 5.0-litre V8 engine had a 101.6 mm bore, 77.8 mm stroke, two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 8.4:1. Unlike the VP Maloo , however, the VR Maloo engine had a recalibrated GM-Delco engine management system, Bosch electronic ignition, a new cold air intake and revised exhaust headers (for reduced back pressure).
Dimensions and suspension
The VR Maloo was 4896 mm long, 1794 mm wide, 1510 mm tall and had a 2822 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the VR Maloo had MacPherson strut front suspension and a five-link live rear axle with coil springs.
| Engine | Trans. | Peak power | Peak torque | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VR Maloo | 5.0-litre petrol V8 | 5sp man., 4sp auto |
185 kW at 4800 rpm | 400 Nm at 3600 rpm |
Brakes
The VR Maloo had 328 mm by 28 mm vented front brake discs and 279 mm by 10.5 mm solid rear discs.
Features: VR Maloo
Standard features for the VR Maloo included 16- by 7-inch alloy wheels with 205/55 ZR16 tyres, a two speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, air conditioning, contoured front sports seats, a sports steering wheel and a soft tonneau cover.
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