Holden does an HSV Maloo for Australia
Americans are forced to feel content with the 360 hp Pontiac-badged G8 sedan, but its Australian maker is really having some fun with it for their domestic market. The 400 hp HSV versions of the Commodore (aka G8) sedan were released a year ago in Australia, but this is the first time they have unveiled the HSV version of this Holden Ute pickup derivative, named the HSV Maloo R8.
Add-ons include a body kit, a motorized rear tonneau cover controlled via the key fob and a 405 hp LS2 V8. The only options are an automatic transmission and a performance pack that includes 20-inch wheels and sport seats. The only options are an automatic transmission and a performance pack that includes 20-inch wheels and sport seats.
The Holden HSV Maloo R8 will cost the equivalent of US$ 53,000 in Australia. This car-based pickup makes a good case for the return of the El Camino to the States, although we don’t really know how many will sell after the initial hype.