Holden Special Vehicles is beginning to redefine its business strategy for when life after Commodore becomes a reality. There are still likely some surprises coming for the Zeta-based Commodore before Holden manufacturing turns out the lights, namely the resurrection of the GTS-R, but HSV must set its sights on new areas.
One of those areas is going to be pickups, or utes as the locals like to say. According to Wheels, HSV boss, Tim Jackson, confirmed the idea of an HSV Holden Colorado is coming soon.
“We have an interest in this area, and have been watching the segment develop in recent years,” Jackson said. And, no, it will not be a simple appearance package either. An HSV Colorado will fully embody the division’s mission statement.
“The primary caveat on any program from HSV is the execution we pursue would need to meet the expectations of the brand: performance, bold styling and a strong technology story.”
Hopped up pickups have become all the rage in the United States, and it seems our friends down under are catching the same fever regarding utes. Take a look at what the Ford F-150 Raptor has accomplished, or Lingenfelter’s answer with the Chevrolet Silverado Reaper and GMC Sierra G2.
When talking performance, HSV stated it has not decided whether it will use the current 2.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel found in the Holden Colorado, or if it will source the 3.6-liter LGX V6 from North America.
“The execution also has to meet the on-road and off-road needs of the customer. Therefore the versatility of the powertrain and chassis become real focal points,” Jackson said, possibly hinting at the V6 being the best choice for an HSV product.
“At some point you need to decide on which attributes your vehicle will compete with most strongly, and be comfortable you will deliver better than the competition,” he said.
Despite homegrown heroes parting way with both Holden, and Ford locally, the rivalry is set to soldier on. Ford has trademarked the Ranger Raptor name in the country, undoubtably a precursor to a high-performance small pickup.
We say, let the games begin.
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