Review: HSV VX.I XU6 (2000-01)

Overview

Released in September 2000, the HSV VX Series I (VX.I) XU6 was a large, rear-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Clayton, Victoria, the XU6 was powered by a 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a four-speed 4L60-E automatic transmission.

L67 Engine

Shared with the Holden VX Commodore , the cast-iron, 3.8-litre L67 pushrod V6 engine was fitted with an Eaton Generation III M90 supercharger, had a 97 mm bore, 86 mm stroke, two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 8.5:1.

Dimensions and styling

Compared to the VT XU6 , the VX XU6 was 53 mm longer (at 4937 mm), though width (1842 mm), height (1450 mm) and wheelbase length (2788 mm) were unchanged. Furthermore, the VX XU6 provided greater refinement through the introduction of a dual-damper drive shaft with rubber couplings and foam-filled B pillars.

Visually, the VX XU6 could be identified by its restyled body kit – designed by Ian Callum – which included a deeper front bumper, more pronounced grille, smaller nostril slots and a new rear spoiler with a centre-mounted integral stop light.

Suspension

The VX.I XU6 had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms; toe-control links, however, were introduced for the VX.II XU6 (see ‘HSV VX.II XU6’, below).

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the VX XU6 included dual front airbags, front side airbags, traction control and front seatbelt pretensioners.

Brakes

he XU6 had 296 mm by 28 mm ventilated front brake discs with twin piston calipers and 286 mm by 16 mm solid rear discs with single piston calipers.

Features

Standard features for the XV XU6 included 17-inch eight-spoke alloy wheels with 235/45 ZR17 Bridgestone tyres, six speaker sound system with CD player, climate control air conditioning, contoured sports seats with a four-way power adjustable driver’s seat, cruise control, front fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, trip computer and an immobiliser.

Review: HSV VX.II XU6 (2001-02)

Overview

Released in September 2001, the VX Series II (VX.II) XU6 was fitted with HSV’s ‘Touring 2’ multi-link independent rear suspension which had revised rear control arm assemblies and toe-control links for more even tyre wear and safer handling over uneven surfaces.

Visually, the XU6 could be identified by its black headlight bezels, new indicator stalks, instrument graphics and chrome interior door handles. Other changes included the fitment of Bridgestone S03 high performance tyres as standard and the application of DataDot security identifiers to components throughout the vehicle.

Safety equipment and features

Compared to its VX.I predecessor, standard safety equipment and features for the VX.II XU6 were largely unchanged.

Related links

• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV VX XU6
• Wikipedia.org: Holden VX Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – VX/VU

Overview

Released in February 1999, the HSV VT Series I (VT.I) XU8 was a large, rear-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Clayton, Victoria, the XU8 was powered by a 5.0-litre V8 engine. Positioned below the VT ClubSport , the XU8 omitted the ClubSport’s performance tyres and front fog lights; the XU8 also had a softer suspension tune.

Drivetrain

The XU8’s 5.0-litre pushrod V8 engine had a 101.6 mm bore, a 77.8 mm stroke, cross-flow heads, two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 9.0:1. Transmission options consisted of a four-speed 4L60-E automatic or five-speed Getrag manual unit.

Dimensions and suspension

Based on the Holden VT Commodore , the VT XU8 was 4919 mm long, 1842 mm wide, 1450 mm tall and had a 2788 mm long wheelbase. Similarly, the VT XU8 had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms, though the XU8 was also fitted with a limited slip differential.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the VT XU8 included a driver’s airbag, ABS and front seatbelt pretensioners.

Brakes

The VT XU8 had 296 mm by 28 mm ventilated front brake discs with twin piston calipers and 286 mm by 16 mm solid rear discs with single piston calipers.

Features

Standard features for the VT XU8 included 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 ZR17 Bridgestone tyres, a six speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, air conditioning, contoured front sports seats with four-way power adjustment, leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser.

Models with automatic transmissions were also fitted with cruise control.

Related links

• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV VT XU8
• Wikipedia.org: Holden VT Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – VT

HSV VT.I XU6 (1998-99)

Overview

Released in February 1998, the HSV VT Series I (VT.I) XU6 was a large, rear-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Clayton, Victoria, the XU6 was powered by a supercharged 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine that was mated to a four-speed 4L60-E automatic transmission.

L67 engine

The cast-iron, 3.8-litre L67 pushrod V6 engine was fitted with an Eaton Generation III M90 supercharger, had a 97 mm bore, 86 mm stroke, two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 8.5:1.

Dimensions and suspension

Based on the Holden VT Commodore , the XU6 was 4884 mm long, 1842 mm wide, 1450 mm tall and had a 2788 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the XU6 had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the HSV VT XU6 consisted of a driver’s airbag and front seatbelt pretensioners.

Features

Standard features for the HSV VT XU6 included 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 ZR17 Bridgestone tyres, a six speaker sound system with CD player, contoured front sports seats with four-way power adjustment, cruise control, front fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a trip computer and an immobiliser.

As standard, the XU6 was also fitted with a limited slip rear differential.

HSV VT.II XU6 (1999-00)

Overview

Released in June 1999, the VT Series II (VT.II) XU6 introduced only minor changes relative to its VT.I predecessor.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Holden VT Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – VT

HSV VS.I Senator (1995-96)

Overview

Released in May 1995, the HSV VS Series I (VS.I) Senator was a large, rear-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Clayton, Victoria, the Senator 185i and 215i were powered by 5.0- and 5.7-litre V8 petrol engines, respectively. While the Senator 185i was available with a four-speed 4L60-E automatic transmission or a Borg-Warner T5 manual transmission, the Senator 215i was offered with either a six-speed Borg Warner T56 manual transmission or a four-speed Borg Warner automatic unit. The VS Senator was based on the Holden VS Commodore Berlina , but fitted with rear seats from the VS Statesman .

5.0- and 5.7-litre V8 engines

For the Senator 185i, the 5.0-litre V8 engine had a 101.6 mm bore, 77.8 mm stroke, two valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 8.4:1, GM-Delco engine management system, Bosch electronic ignition and a cold air intake. The Senator 215i, however, had a stroked version of this engine – with a capacity of 5.7-litre – which had an 11 mm longer Harrop crankshaft, flat-top pistons and a unique flywheel, valves and valve springs. 

Dimensions and suspension

The VS Senator was 4861 mm long, 1794 mm wide, 1403 mm tall and had a 2731 mm long wheelbase. Compared to the VR Senator , the VS Senator could be identified by its triple-slat grille which extended over the front bumper.

The VS Senator had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the HSV VS.I Senator included a driver’s airbag and ABS.

Brakes

The standard braking package for the HSV VS Senator consisted of 289 mm by 23 mm vented front brake discs and 279 mm by 10.7 mm solid rear discs. The 215i (‘Stroker’) variants, however, had 328 mm by 28 mm vented front brake discs and 280 mm by 20 mm vented rear discs.

Features

Standard features for the HSV VS.I Senator included 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, a four speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, climate control air conditioning, Devenish front seats with Roebuck velour trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift lever, cruise control, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a trip computer and an alarm system.

Both the Senator 185i and 215i were fitted with limited slip differentials, though the latter had a viscous Hydratrak differential that was developed between HSV and BTR.

HSV VS.II Senator (1996-97)

Overview

Released in July 1996, the VS Series II (VS.II) Senator was fitted with a ‘Level 2’ sound system head unit, Devenish/Kepple interior trim combination and a flocked glovebox. Standard features were extended to include steering wheel sound system controls and HSV’s Integrated Security System (ISS) which included an immobiliser.

Visually, the VS.II Senator could be identified by its new badges.

Related links

• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV VS Senator
• Wikipedia.org: Holden VS Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – VR/VS

HSV VT.I Senator (1997-99)

Overview

Released in September 1997, the HSV VT Series I (VT.I) Senator was available as a rear-wheel drive sedan or wagon. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Clayton, Victoria, the VT.I Senator 195i and 220i were powered by 5.0- and 5.7-litre V8 petrol engines, respectively. While Senator 195i was available with either a five-speed Getrag manual or four-speed 4L60-E automatic transmission, the Senator 220i was offered with either a six-speed Borg Warner T56 manual or four-speed Borg Warner automatic. Wagon models, however, were solely available with automatic transmissions.

5.0- and 5.7-litre V8 engines

As with the VS Senator , the cast-iron 5.0-litre pushrod V8 engine had a 101.6 mm bore, 77.8 mm stroke and two valves per cylinder, though sequential fuel injection was introduced and the compression ratio was increased to 8.8:1 (previously 8.4:1). The 5.7-litre version of this engine had an 88.4 mm stroke, an 11 mm longer Harrop crankshaft, flat-top pistons and a unique flywheel, valves and valve springs.

Dimensions and suspension

Based on the Holden VT Commodore , the VT ClubSport had an all-new chassis and, compared to the VS Senator , the sedan was 58 mm longer (at 4919 mm), 48 mm wider (1842 mm), 47 mm taller (1450 mm) and had a 57 mm longer wheelbase (2788 mm); wagon models, however, were 147 mm longer (at 5066 mm) and had 150 mm longer wheelbases (2938 mm).

The VT Senator had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent, self-levelling rear suspension with semi-trailing arms.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the VT.I Senator included dual front airbags, ABS and front seatbelt pretensioners.

Brakes

The VT Senator had 296 mm by 28 mm ventilated front discs with twin piston calipers and 286 mm by 16 mm solid rear discs with single piston calipers.

Features

Standard features for the VT.I Senator included 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 ZR17 Bridgestone tyres, eight speaker sound system with a CD player and ten-disc CD changer, air conditioning, leather upholstery, contoured front sports seats with four-way power adjustment, cruise control, front fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser.

1998 HSV Senator 10th Anniversary edition

In March 1998, a 10th Anniversary edition Senator was released. Production was limited to ten (10) units and its modified 5.7-litre V8 engine produced peak power and torque of 230 kW at 4800 rpm and 500 Nm at 3600 rpm. Compared to the standard Senator, standard features were extended to include two-tone leather upholstery and a power-operated glass sunroof.

HSV VT.II Senator (1999-00)

Overview

Released in June 1999, the VT Series II (VT.II) Senator introduced the 5.7-litre LS1 V8 engine and a revised range which consisted solely of Senator Signature models; as before, wagon models were solely available with automatic transmissions. Furthermore, the ‘Luxury’ suspension was retuned with reduced height variable rate front springs, though the variable rate rear springs and Monroe Sensatrac dampers continued as per the VT.I Senator.

LS1 V8 engine

The all-aluminium 5.7-litre LS1 pushrod V8 engine had a 99 mm bore, 92 mm stroke, flat-topped pistons, two valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 10.0:1 and a 6000 rpm redline. For the HSV range, there was also a 57 mm stainless steel big bore extractor exhaust system which fed into 1.8-litre low back-pressure catalytic converters and low-restriction HSV mufflers. Although calibrated to run on 95 RON premium unleaded petrol (PULP), the LS1 engine could also run on 91 RON unleaded petrol with a small loss in power.

The LS1’s aluminium cylinder block assembly weighed 48.85 kg, resulting in a 40 kg weight saving relative to its cast-iron predecessor.

Safety equipment

Compared to its VT.I predecessor, standard safety equipment was extended to include front side airbags; models with automatic transmissions were also fitted with traction control.

Features

Inside, the VT.II Senator Signature had a new instrument panel surround with darker woodgrain and Light Shale leather seat trim; standard features were also extended to include climate control air conditioning.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Holden VT Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – VT

HSV VP.I Senator (1992-93)

Overview

Released in April 1992, the HSV VP Series I (VP.I) Senator was a large, rear-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Notting Hill, Victoria, the Senator was powered by a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine that was mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

Effectively replacing the VN SV5000 , the Senator 5000i was released in June 1992.

V8 engines

Shared with the Holden VP Commodore , the cast-iron 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. For the VP Senator, however, the engine was fitted with an HSV-specific cold air intake (adapted from the SV5000), dual exhaust system (including an additional intermediate muffler and fabricated heat shielding) and electronic control unit.

For the Senator 5000i, the 5.0-litre V8 engine was modified with flat-top pistons, bigger valves, a revised camshaft, special throttle body, knock sensor, modified induction system, special extractors, increased compression ratio (9.0:1) and a recalibrated engine management system. 

Dimensions and suspension

Based on the Holden VP Commodore Berlina , the VP Senator was 4865 mm long, 1812 mm wide, 1403 mm tall and had a 2731 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the Senator had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms.

Safety equipment

The standard Senator was not fitted with any safety equipment such as airbags or ABS; the Senator 5000i, however, was fitted with ABS as standard.

Brakes

The VP Senator had 328 mm by 28 mm vented front brake discs and 280 mm by 20 mm vented rear discs.

Features

Standard features for the VP.I Senator included 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 ZR17 tyres, a radio and cassette player, climate control air conditioning, Langton front sports seats with Hardwicke trim, a three-spoke Nardi steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows, power mirrors, a trip computer and an alarm. For models with automatic transmissions, cruise control was also fitted as standard.

As satndard, the Senator was fitted with a limited slip differential.

The Senator 5000i was distinguished by its combination leather/suede interior trim and front fog lights.

HSV VP.II Senator (1993)

Overview

Released in February 1993, the VP Series II (VP.II) was a minor update for the Senator, though features were largely unchanged. In June 1993, limited-run 5th Anniversary Senator and Senator 5000i models were released.

Related links

• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV VP Senator
• Wikipedia.org: Holden VP Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – VP

Overview

Released in August 1993, the HSV VR Senator was a large, rear-wheel drive sedan. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Notting Hill, Victoria, the Senator was powered by a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine that was mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. The VR Senator was based on the Holden VR Commodore Berlina , but was fitted with rear seats from the VR Statesman . In May 1994, the Senator 215i was released.

In December 1994, HSV relocated its operations from Notting Hill to Clayton, Victoria.

Senator 185i and 215i engines

Shared with the VR Commodore , the cast-iron 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. For the VR ClubSport, however, the 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).

The Senator 215i and the VR GTS were the first vehicles to be fitted with a stroked version of Holden’s 5.0-litre V8 engine – with a capacity of 5.7-litres – which included an 11 mm longer Harrop crankshaft, new flat-top pistons to lower the compression ratio (for compatibility with regular unleaded petrol), new valves, valve springs and a new flywheel. The Senator 215i was initially available with a six-speed Borg Warner T56 manual unit; from October 1994, however, the Senator 215i was available with a Borg Warner automatic transmission (as used on the LT1 Corvette).

Dimensions and suspension

The VR Senator was 4865 mm long, 1812 mm wide, 1403 mm tall and had a 2731 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the VR Senator had HSV’s ‘Touring’ suspension tune with MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the VR Senator included a driver’s airbag and ABS.

Brakes

The VR Senator had 328 mm by 28 mm vented front brake discs and 280 mm by 20 mm vented rear discs.

Features

Standard features for the VR Senator included 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, a four speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, climate control air conditioning, ‘Group A’ front sports seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift lever, cruise control, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a trip computer and an alarm system.

Both the Senator 185i and 215i were fitted with limited slip differentials, though the latter had a viscous Hydratrak differential that was developed between HSV and BTR.

Related links

• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV VR Senator
• Wikipedia.org: Holden VR Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – VR/VS

HSV E-Series I Senator (2006-09)

Overview

Released in August 2006, the HSV E-Series I (E-I) Senator was a rear-wheel drive, performance sedan. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Clayton, Victoria, the E-Series Senator range initially consisted of Senator Signature models which were powered by 6.0-litre LS2 V8 petrol engines that were mated to either six-speed Tremec T56 manual or six-speed 6L80E automatic transmissions. In April 2008, however, the 6.0-litre LS2 V8 engine was replaced by the more powerful 6.2-litre LS3 V8. Furthermore, the Tremec T56 six-speed manual transmission was replaced by the TR6060 unit in October 2008.

LS2 and LS3 V8 engines

The all-aluminium, Generation IV 6.0-litre LS2 pushrod V8 engine had a 101.6 mm bore, 92.0 mm stroke, flat-topped pistons, cast-steel roller rocker arms, roller cam followers, coil pack ignition, two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 10.9:1; maximum engine speed was 6500 mm. Although calibrated to run on 95 RON premium unleaded petrol (PULP), the LS2 engine could also run on 91 RON unleaded petrol with a small loss in power. For the E-Series, the LS2 engine introduced a recalibrated engine control module (with a ‘limp home’ mode) and new tubular extractors which fed into a twin-exhaust system with four outlet pipes.

Compared to the LS2 engine , the 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine had a 103.25 mm bore (stroke was unchanged at 92.0 mm), a stronger block, higher-flow cylinder heads and injectors, hollow-stem intake valves, new pistons, a more aggressive camshaft with 14.0 mm lift, a new intake manifold and a lower compression ratio of 10.7:1. As a result of the LS3’s introduction, the six-speed automatic transmission was recalibrated for faster gearshifts.

Dimensions

Compared to the Z-Series Senator , the E-Series Senator was 37 mm shorter (at 4943 mm), 57 mm wider (1899 mm), 17 mm taller (1467 mm) and had a 127 mm longer wheelbase (2915 mm).

Suspension

The E-Series Senator had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent, four-link rear suspension. Like the E-Series GTS, however, the Senator Signature suspension included a ‘Magnetic Ride Control’ system which utilised magneto-rheological fluid in the monotube dampers. When activated by an electric current, the viscosity of the fluid would change, enabling damping rates to be varied according to conditions and driver behaviour.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the E-Series Senator included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Brakes

The E-Series Senator had 365 mm by 32 mm vented and grooved front and 350 mm by 26 mm vented and grooved rear brake discs with four-piston AP Racing calipers front and rear.

Features

Standard features for the Senator Signature included 19-inch alloy wheels with 245/40 R19 front and 275/35 R19 rear tyres, a 230 watt sound system with eleven speakers, a six-disc CD player and MP3-compatibility, a 6.5-inch colour display, dual zone climate control air conditioning, power adjustable front seats, driver’s seat and mirror memory settings, cruise control with speed alert, Bluetooth connectivity, front fog lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front parking sensors, a flat-bottomed three-spoke steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a trip computer and an immobiliser.

The Senator Signature was also fitted with a limited slip rear differential.

2008 Senator Signature SV08

In October 2008, a limited-run Senator Signature SV08 was released; it was distinguished by its 20-inch ‘Pentagon’alloy wheels, unique sill plates, badging and chrome accents on the side mirrors and door handles.

Entry-level Senator

In February 2009, a price-leading Senator was introduced (omitting the ‘Signature’ moniker). Compared to the Senator Signature, these models omitted Magnetic Ride Control, the ‘Shadow Chrome’ alloy wheels (instead fitted with silver billet wheels), ‘Performance’leather seats (fitted with standard leather seats), rain-sensing wipers, front parking sensors and exterior chrome highlights.

Brochures

• Brochure: HSV E Series I Senator and WM.I Grange (May 2007)
• Brochure: HSV E Series I Senator and WM.I Grange (April 2008)

Related links

• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV E-Series I Senator Signature (LS2)
• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV E-Series I Senator (LS3)
• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV E-Series I Senator Signature (LS3)
• HSV Press: E Series Senator Signature – Lead A Corporate Takeover (August 2006)
• HSV Press: New LS3 Engine To Power HSV From April (March 2008)
• HSV Press: HSV Releases Limited Edition Senator Signature (February 2009)

HSV E-Series II Senator (2009-10)

Overview

Released in September 2009, the E-Series II (E-II) Senator introduced improved fuel economy and updated styling. Visually, the E-II Senator could be identified by its daytime LED running lights, new alloy wheel designs and deeper grille.

Safety equipment and features

As part of the E-Series II update, changes included a ‘Competition Mode’ for the electronic stability control system, ‘Extended Cruise Control’ with speed-limiting function for downhill driving; manual models were also fitted with ‘Intelligent Launch Control’. Standard features, however, were largely unchanged.

Related links

• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV E-Series II Senator Signature
• HSV Press: HSV E Series 2 Launched (September 2009)
• HSV Press: The Engineering Story Behind HSV E Series 2 (September 2009)
• HSV Press: E Series 2 Turns Up The Differentiation (September 2009)

HSV E-Series III Senator (2010-13)

Overview

Released in September 2010, the E-Series III (E-III) Senator introduced an updated interior with additional features. The 6.2-litre V8 engine was also available with a dual-fuel liquid propane injection (LPI) system which provided identical performance to the petrol-only V8. The LPI engine would start on petrol but switch to LPG for low and mid-range driving; from approximately 5300 rpm – depending on conditions – the engine would revert to petrol for full power. Magnetic Ride Control settings were also recalibrated.

Inside, the E-III Senator had a new ‘Oracle’ dashboard with binnacle gauges and piano black trim on the centre console and steering wheel; there was also an ‘Enhanced Driver Interface’ with a touch-screen display that could provide performance data. The Senator Signature also had twin-stitch seat trims.

In August 2012 (‘MY12.5’), peak power for the 6.2-litre V8 increased to 325 kW.

Safety equipment

Safety features for the E-III Senator were initially unchanged. From August 2012, however, a blindspot monitoring system was fitted as standard.

Features

Standard features were extended to include satellite navigation (with touchscreen), iPod connectivity, reversing camera and rear parking sensors; a blind spot warning system was optional.

From August 2012, the Senator Signature was fitted with 20-inch ‘SV Performance’ forged alloy wheels (with a Dark Stainless finish).

Related links

• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV E-Series III Senator Signature
• HSV Press: HSV Unveils New E Series 3 Range (September 2010)
• HSV Press: HSV Launches New E Series 3 Range (September 2010)
• HSV Press: Designer Touches for HSV E Series 3 (September 2010)
• HSV Press: HSV Adds Technology And Value To The Range (September 2010)
• Flyer: HSV E Series 3 Senator Signature and Grange (October 2010)
• HSV Press: New 20-inch Forged Option Wheel For HSV (October 2011)
• HSV Press: HSV Announces MY12.5 Range Update (August 2012)
• Wikipedia.org: Holden VE Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – E Series

Review: HSV Gen-F Senator (2013-15)

Overview

Released in May 2013, the HSV Gen-F Senator was a rear-wheel drive, performance sedan. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished in Clayton, Victoria, the Gen-F Senator was powered by 6.2-litre LS3 V8 petrol engines that were mated to either six-speed TR6060 manual or 6L80 automatic transmissions.

LS3 V8 engine

Shared with the E-Series Senator , the all-aluminium ‘Generation IV’ 6.2-litre LS3 pushrod V8 engine had a 103.25 mm bore and 92.0 mm stroke, flat-topped pistons, cast-steel roller rocker arms, roller cam followers, coil pack ignition, two valves per cylinder, hollow-stem intake valves, twin knock control sensors, distributorless ignition and a compression ratio of 10.7:1.

While the standard LS3 Gen-F engine initially produced 317 kW, the Gen-F Senator had a bi-modal air intake, high flow inlet tube and high flow headers for a peak power output of 340 kW.

Dimensions

Sharing its Zeta architecture with its E-Series predecessor, the Gen-F Senator was 4947 mm long, 1899 mm wide, 1476 mm tall and had a 2915 mm long wheelbase.

To achieve a mass reduction of around 30 kg relative to its predecessor, the Gen-F Senator Signature had an aluminium bonnet and boot panels. Electric power-assisted steering was also introduced to further reduce fuel consumption.

Suspension

The Gen-F Senator had double-pivot MacPherson strut front suspension and independent, four-link rear suspension. The Senator Signature, however, was also fitted with HSV’s ‘Magnetic Ride Control’ system which used magneto-rheological fluid in the monotube dampers to provide variable damping via the application of an electric current to vary the viscosity of the damping fluid.

For the Gen-F range, Magnetic Ride Control included an extra set of coils that could instantly reverse the polarity of the iron filings to vary suspension damping.

HSV Gen-F Senator specifications

	Engine	Trans.	Peak power	Peak torque
Senator Signature	6.2-litre LS3 petrol V8	6sp man., 6sp auto	340 kW at 6100 rpm	570 Nm at 4650 rpm

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the HSV Gen-F Senator Signature included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, Side Blind Zone Alert, Reverse Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Brakes

The HSV Gen-F Senator Signature had 367 mm by 32 mm front disc brakes and 367 mm by 28 mm rear discs brakes, with forged four-piston calipers fitted front and rear.

Features

Standard features for the HSV Gen-F Senator included 20-inch Dark Stainless forged alloy wheels with 255/35 R20 front and 275/35 R20 Continental 5P tyres, a nine speaker Bose sound system with a CD/DVD player, MP3-compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod) and Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, satellite navigation with an eight-inch colour touch screen display, HSV Performance seats with leather trim, eight-way power adjustable and heated front seats, head-up display, an Enhanced Driver Interface, cruise control, daytime running lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking with proximity key, push-button start, power windows and heated mirrors, automatically dipping door mirrors on reverse, driver’s seat and mirror memory settings, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, an electric park brake, 12 volt power outlet, an alarm and immobiliser.

As standard, the Senator Signature was also fitted with a limited slip rear differential.

The Senator Signature featured ‘Auto Park Assist’ function which enabled the vehicle to steer into parallel and 90-degree angle parks while the driver operated the accelerator and brake pedals. Models fitted with automatic transmissions also had a remote engine start function which could be operated via the key fob.

November 2014 (MY15): Senator Signature update

As part of the November 2014 (MY15) update, Senator Signature models with automatic transmissions were fitted with steering wheel gearshift paddles.

2015 Senator SV

Released in February 2015, the Senator SV was distinguished by its:

• SV Rapier forged alloy wheels with a Dark Stainless finish;
• ‘Pitch black’ accents for the front grille surround, fender vents, mirror scalps and rear spoiler; and,
• ‘Senator SV’ markings for the sill plates, ID plate and EDI screen.

Australian deliveries of the Senator SV were limited to 50 vehicles, while two were exported to New Zealand.

Brochure

• Brochure: HSV Gen-F Senator (July 2013)
• Flyer: Holden Gen-F Senator SV (February 2015)

Related links

• HSV Press: HSV Announces Australian Pricing For New Gen-F Range (May 2013)
• HSV Press: HSV Launches New Gen-F Range (May 2013)
• HSV Press: HSV Launches New Senator Signature and Grange Models (May 2013)

HSV Gen-F2 Senator (2015-17)

Overview

Commencing production in October 2015, the HSV Gen-F2 Senator Signature was powered by GM’s 6.2-litre supercharged LSA V8 engine. Visually, the Gen-F2 Senator Signature could be identified by its redesigned front fascia with subtle ‘splitter’, pitch black bonnet vents and contoured side skirts.

LSA powertrain and suspension

The 6.2-litre LSA pushrod V8 engine has a 103.25 mm bore and 92.0 mm stroke, a cast aluminium cylinder block and head, a sixth-generation Eaton Roots-type supercharger (with four-lobe rotors, a capacity of 1.9-litres and peak boost of 9 psi), a single brick intercooler, hypereutectic pistons and a compression ratio of 9.0:1.

For the LSA engine, the Tremec TR-6060 ‘MG9’ manual transmission featured a dual-mass flywheel, twin-plate clutch and triple synchros. Compared to the standard TR-6060 transmissions used in HSV’s Gen-F range, the MG9 transmission had a strengthened output shaft, high-strength rear housing and an additional roller bearing to cope with the high torque outputs. Similarly, the 6L90E automatic transmission had a strengthened input gearset with two additional pinion gears, an additional clutch plate and a strengthened output shaft and gearset.

For HSV Gen-F2 models fitted with the LSA engine, the suspension had stiffer spring and damper rates to reduce body roll and improve corner-entry response. Furthermore, a unique rear suspension module included a 9.9-inch differential, upgraded drive shaft and upgraded prop shafts.

HSV Gen-F2 Senator specifications

	Engine	Trans.	Peak power	Peak torque
Senator Signature	6.2-litre supercharged LSA petrol V8	6sp man., 6sp auto	400 kW at 6150 rpm	671 Nm at 4200 rpm
Senator Signature 30 Years (2017)	6.2-litre supercharged LSA petrol V8	6sp man., 6sp auto	410 kW	691 Nm

Features

For the HSV Gen-F2 Senator Signature, the auxiliary gauges at the base of the centre stack were discontinued to improve storage space, while HSV’s ‘Enhanced Driver Interface’ (EDI) was available as extra-cost option.

2017 HSV Gen-F2 Senator Signature 30 Years Anniversary

Production of the HSV Gen-F2 Senator Signature 30 Years Anniversary commenced in January 2017. Changes for the 30 Years Anniversary models included:

• A more powerful LSA engine (outputs increased to 410 kW and 691 Nm) with unique engine build plate; and,
• A modified bi-modal exhaust system in which the exhaust valve control was recalibrated to open earlier in the rev range.

Visually, the HSV Gen-F2 Senator Signature 30 Years Anniversary could be identified by its’30 Years’ fender badges, ’30 Years’ sill plates, ’30 Years’ rear window sticker and ’30 Years’ floor mats. Furthermore, the HSV Gen-F2 Senator Signature 30 Years Anniversary had 20-inch ‘SV Rapier’ forged alloy wheels; as an option, 20 x 9.0J front and 20 x 10.0J rear ‘SV Rimfire’ five-spoke forged alloy wheels were also available.

As standard, the HSV Gen-F2 Senator Signature 30 Years Anniversary was equipped with a torque vectoring system. Previously introduced on the HSV Gen-F GTS, HSV’s brake torque vectoring reduced understeer by generating a ‘rotational moment’ in the rear axle during acceleration. Specifically, the ESC system detected understeer and applied the brake to the inner rear wheel to transfer torque to the outer rear wheel.

As an extra-cost option, the HSV Gen-F2 Senator Signature could also be specified with an AP Racing braking package (previously limited to HSV Gen-F GTS) which consisted of 390 mm by 36 mm floating two-piece front brake discs with forged six-piston callipers and 372 mm by 28 mm rear discs with four-piston callipers.

Related links

• Brochure: HSV Gen-F2 Senator and Grange (September 2015)
• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV Gen-F2 Senator Signature
• Wikipedia.org: Holden VF Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – Gen F

]]> 53646 https://www.australiancar.reviews/review-hsv-vs-manta-1995-97/ Sun, 07 Mar 2021 22:50:47 +0000 http://prod.australiancar.reviews/review-hsv-vs-manta-1995-97/

• Responsive 5.0-litre V8 engine
• Competent dynamics
• Spacious interior

• Four-speed automatic transmission provides clunky downshifts
• Below average interior fit and finish
• High fuel consumption

HSV VS.I Manta (1995-96)

Overview

Released in April 1995, the HSV VS Series I (VS.I) Manta was available as a sedan or wagon. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Clayton, Victoria, the rear-wheel drive VS Manta was fitted with a 5.0-litre V8 engine that was mated to either a four-speed 4L60-E automatic or five-speed Borg-Warner T5 manual transmission.

V8 engine

The 5.0-litre V8 engine had a 101.6 mm bore, 77.8 mm stroke, two valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 8.4:1, GM-Delco engine management system, Bosch electronic ignition and a cold air intake.

Dimensions

Positioned below the VS ClubSport as the entry-level vehicle within the HSV range, the Manta sedan was 4861 mm long, 1794 mm wide, 1491 mm tall and had a 2731 mm long wheelbase. Wagon models, however, 42 mm longer (at 4903 mm) and had 91 mm longer wheelbases (2822 mm).

Suspension

Whereas the VS Manta sedan had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms, wagon models have a live rear axle with lower trailing arms.

HSV VS.I Manta specifications

	Body	Engine	Trans.	Peak power	Peak torque
Manta	Sedan, wagon	5.0-litre petrol V8	5sp man., 4sp auto	180 kW at 4800 rpm	400 Nm at 3600 rpm

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the VS.I Manta included ABS.

Brakes

The VS Manta had 289 mm by 23 mm vented front brake discs and 279 mm by 10.7 mm solid rear discs.

Features

Standard features for the VS.I Manta included 16-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with 225/50 ZR16 Bridgestone Expedia tyres, a six speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, air conditioning, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and remote central locking.

As standard, the Manta was also fitted with a limited slip differential.

HSV VS.II Manta (1996-97)

Overview

Released in July 1996, the VS Series II (VS.II) Manta introduced five-speed Getrag 260 manual transmissions and minor changes to standard features (detailed below).

HSV VS.II Manta specifications

	Body	Engine	Trans.	Peak power	Peak torque
Manta	Sedan, wagon	5.0-litre petrol V8	5sp man., 4sp auto	180 kW at 4800 rpm	400 Nm at 3600 rpm

Features

Standard features for the VS.II Manta were extended to include power windows and mirrors (previously optional) and HSV’s Integrated Security System (ISS) which included an immobiliser; the head unit for the sound system was also upgraded.

Models with automatic transmissions were also fitted with a leather-wrapped park-brake handle and gear shift lever.

Related links

• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV VS Manta
• Wikipedia.org: Holden VS Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – VR/VS

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