Holden hatches 4WD Commodore

By ALASTAIR SLOANE

Holden has unveiled the second stage of its plan to produce more Commodore-based variants and niche models over the next few years.


The first stage was the Cross8 concept, a four-wheel-drive twin-cab utility that featured at the Melbourne motor show last March.


The Cross8 will go into production next year and will spearhead Holden's entry into the recreational four-paw market.


The second stage was the SSX concept, an all-wheel-drive sports liftback that broke cover at last week's Sydney motor show.


Industry observers expect the SSX - or something very much like it - to go into production in 2004, along with another niche, all-wheel-drive recreational vehicle based on the facelifted Commodore VY wagon.


The VY range, with its styling differences identifying entry-level, mid-range and sports models, points to Holden's future model line-up in a more diverse market.


Its four different faces, three different rear ends, three different front and rear bumpers, two different headlight designs and two different tail-lights might be seen to be confusing to some.


But not Holden chairman and managing director Peter Hanenberger. "Holden is looking to the world from a very strong base in Australia and our vision for this new niche manufacturing era begins with the introduction of this expanded VY range," he said.


There is therefore something for everyone in the new-look VY, in that it is the donor vehicle for diverse new models.


The SSX concept is pretty much road-ready and was built to show the flexibility of Holden's design, engineering and production departments.


"SSX is our vision of the future," said Hanenberger. "It is the cream of our Australian design and engineering expertise channelled into a car of world class standard.


"It heralds a family of low ride-height, inspirational all-wheel-drive niche performance vehicles that could become reality in less than two years."


The SSX, a combination of the SS nameplate with X for crossover, is the result of Holden's biggest ever concept car project.


"We're asking questions with this showcar," said design chief Michael Simcoe.


"We want people to tell us if a flexible performance vehicle like this is something they'd like to see.


"We're saying that where we are with the Commodore SS isn't necessarily the only way to go."


The SSX is finished in 'Kryptonite' green and with a black-on-black interior. Its wide track stance and wheel arch extensions, along with 19-inch magnesium alloys and vented front aerodynamic aids gives it an aggressive stance.


The centre console is brushed silver to match silver highlights on the instrument cluster.


The rear load area measures 1010mm wide, 650mm high and 1050mm long (1530mm with the seats down) and comprises a matt floor with stainless steel protection strips.