VE Sportwagon

[omicron]

Holden's handsome VE Sportwagon was unveiled in production form at today's opening of the Melbourne International Motor Show (MIMS). And the General is not taking any prisoners when it comes to value for money -- available in the corresponding trim levels to its sedan counterpart, the wagon demands a slim $1000 margin and includes six airbags, stability control and rear park assist across the range.

The Sportwagon was first unveiled in concept form at last October's Australian International Motor Show (AIMS) in Sydney. Holden announced the full variant line-up in January (more here), but has kept quiet on pricing and equipment levels until now.

Kicking off at $37,790 for the Omega variant, the seven-model VE Sportwagon range includes SV6, SS and SS V sports models and is topped by a bells-and-whistles V8-powered six-speed auto Calais V which sells at $60,290. The Calais V is the most expensive wagon Holden has ever offered.

Holden is championing the fact the midrange $41,290 Berlina Sportwagon hits the market at $5600 less than its VZ equivalent. This is before taking into account the VE's stability control, rear park sensors and six airbags, the company opines.

In introducing the new Sportwagon range GM Holden's Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, Alan Batey, said: "The extended VE range offers real choices in practicality and flexibility to both the business buyer and Aussie families".

"The Australian market is becoming increasingly challenging and at Holden we believe the VE Sportwagon's pricing, sedan-like handling and stylish design will ensure it has the competitive edge it needs to succeed in its segment," he said.

The Sportwagon models offer essentially the same powertrain combinations as the current VE sedan range.

The Omega base model features Holden's 3.6-litre 180Kw/330Nm Alloytec V6 coupled with a four-speed auto box. The SV6 and Calais step the V6 up to 195kW/340Nm with five-speed auto box. SS, SS V and Calais V models feature Holden's 270kW/530Nm 6.0-litre Gen IV V8 variously coupled to manual and automatic six-speed gearboxes. The Calais V is also available with a V6.

Omega - $37,790 (auto), 3.6 V6 180kW
Berlina - $41,290 (auto), 3.6 V6 180kW
SV6 - $42,490 (auto), 3.6 V6 195kW
SS - $46,290 (manual), $48,290 (auto), 6.0 V8 270kW
Calais - $46,790 (auto), 3.6 V6, 195kW
SS-V - $53,790 (manual), $55,790 (auto), 6.0 V8 270kW
Calais-V - $55,290 (auto) 3.6 V6 195kW, $60,290 (auto) 6.0 V8 270kW

[Danish]

[280Z Turbo]

Why must you taunt us with your superior cars?