Holden Adventra......Zzzzzzzzzzzz

[C4B]

Work commitments have meant I had to hire a wagon to cart some larger stuff around, so I hired a new Holden Adventra LX8 (with 28,000k's on it). A normal Dunnydore wagon would have done, but I like trying different vehicles when I can, and I've always had this yearning to try out an LS1 mated to an AWD chassis.

I had high hopes, and the AWD in conjunction with the big 5.7litre LS1 seemed to be the icing on the cake, or so I thought.....

Upon first inspection the interior was very nice, and aside from the "wankerfest" roll angle gauges in middle, the finish of the car was excellent.

Upon starting the Adventra I was a little surprised to hear how quiet it was, but hey that's always the case with new V8's so I still wasn't fully prepared for the shock I received when I actually planted the foot in this thing.

To say it was slow and totally unresponsive would be the understatement of the century. This thing launched off the line like a poorly tuned 202 VC Commodore (I hesitate to use the word launch, because it may accidently conjure up images of speed and acceleration!).

It had this dumb as dogshit auto transmission in it which didn't seem to know what gear it was in (never mind actually knowing what gear it SHOULD be in!). And about the only thing that reminded me I was in a V8 was the 20litre per hundred kilometre fuel usage..

I stagger to think how they actually sell these things, because unless you've never driven anything faster than an EA Falcon, it's hardly likely to impress.

I'm not saying that there isn't a place for slow family cars, but this thing had the worst of both worlds, pathetic performance and it drank fuel like it was going out of fashion.

New Holden Adventra...... "Take 1 to cure insomnia"

[VZKOOP]

:lol: When I went to check out the new Munro at Moss Vale all they had was a Cross8. It looked good, my wife even thought so. They said go and throw this thing around. I did. Now it did have incredible body control for such a big weildy beast, but as you found with the Adventra - when I Floored it - er - um - cough - hello, is this thing going to accelerate now? I reckon a bog stock VY Commy would do it in a straight line. When I left the dealership it said it had 45l of fuel in 15K's it said it had 35l of fuel - Aaaaaah, there must be a hole in the tank. No said the salesman - they are quite thirsty.........

[XLR8 V8]

You seem to be forgetting that you've been a little spoiled when it comes to these cars/engines. You're used to driving your car which was 300fwkw stock, and is now a helluva lot more. Driving a stock "family spec" LS1 is a jaw dropping experience for those who normally drive hi-po versions.
e.g. My car has lots of go for me, but get someone who is used to driving a cammed, edited, ratio changed version to take it for a spin and my car would feel like a doughy lard arse in comparison.
Go and drive a Toyota Starlet for a week and then get back in the Adventura. ;)

[ssberlina]

Work commitments have meant I had to hire a wagon to cart some larger stuff around, so I hired a new Holden Adventra LX8 (with 28,000k's on it). A normal Dunnydore wagon would have done, but I like trying different vehicles when I can, and I've always had this yearning to try out an LS1 mated to an AWD chassis.

I had high hopes, and the AWD in conjunction with the big 5.7litre LS1 seemed to be the icing on the cake, or so I thought.....

Upon first inspection the interior was very nice, and aside from the "wankerfest" roll angle gauges in middle, the finish of the car was excellent.

Upon starting the Adventra I was a little surprised to hear how quiet it was, but hey that's always the case with new V8's so I still wasn't fully prepared for the shock I received when I actually planted the foot in this thing.

To say it was slow and totally unresponsive would be the understatement of the century. This thing launched off the line like a poorly tuned 202 VC Commodore (I hesitate to use the word launch, because it may accidently conjure up images of speed and acceleration!).

It had this dumb as dogshit auto transmission in it which didn't seem to know what gear it was in (never mind actually knowing what gear it SHOULD be in!). And about the only thing that reminded me I was in a V8 was the 20litre per hundred kilometre fuel usage..

I stagger to think how they actually sell these things, because unless you've never driven anything faster than an EA Falcon, it's hardly likely to impress.

I'm not saying that there isn't a place for slow family cars, but this thing had the worst of both worlds, pathetic performance and it drank fuel like it was going out of fashion.

New Holden Adventra...... "Take 1 to cure insomnia"

I have driven both models of the adventra and although they are slower than the comparable LS1 wagon they are not as slow as you are making out.

They are a bit boring though as the power delivery is very progressive due to the weight and gearing.

All i can say is that it must be a long while since you drove a 202.

[cheffy]

It obviously didn't go to the G&D spring Challenge then.... :burnout:

[LSX-438]

i hired one for a week (adventra) came out the other side thinking the same, probably ok as a shopping trolley and occassional snow duties but yeah, it lacks punch big time, too much so for a 5.7l V8 (and thirsty at that). I would get a liberty of something else, unless mods were an option...

[Swordie]

RACQ Review (http://www.racq.com.au/03_car/reviews_new/FCT_Holden_Adventra_cx8_04.htm)

0-100 8.9 sec
0-400 15.7 sec

About as fast as the Buick V6 from 0-100 using nearly double the fuel. Best take an SS or Berlina V8 Wagon next time.

I had a test drive at 4WD test track, the off road capabilities are quite good. Probably better than Ford's Territory.

[Wazza]

You seem to be forgetting that you've been a little spoiled when it comes to these cars/engines. You're used to driving your car which was 300fwkw stock, and is now a helluva lot more. Driving a stock "family spec" LS1 is a jaw dropping experience for those who normally drive hi-po versions.
e.g. My car has lots of go for me, but get someone who is used to driving a cammed, edited, ratio changed version to take it for a spin and my car would feel like a doughy lard arse in comparison.
Go and drive a Toyota Starlet for a week and then get back in the Adventura. ;)

I've stepped out of a VS SS (165kw) and into an adventra (245kw?) for a day, and i came away with very similar feelings for the adventra. For the extra 80kw it has over my SS it felt far slower. Sure probably the noise (or lack thereof) from the exhaust probably makes it seem slower, but when i stepped out of it i was thinking to myself i hope not all ls1s are like this......considering the good stuff ive heard about the LS1, the adventra is very dissapointing........

[LSX-438]

the first impression i had from the adventra, you can really feel the extra weight, several hundred extra kegs.. obviously that is the problem, and the slight detune/exhaust issues. i would be very keen to hear from those who have edited the AWD cars..

[seldo]

Crikey Geoff, you are a bit tough. After your car with 300rwkw anything is going to feel a bit under-nourished... I also drove one recently and felt that it was a bit tame and certainly lacked sparkle compared to the normal ride, but they still go okay for something that weighs - what..1900kg? You need to be comparing it to the other big 4wd behemoths to give a fair comparison. But they sure do like a drink...My bro-in-law towed a kart trailer up here from Melbourne with one. Reckoned it was pretty good on the open road for overtaking... except that it wouldn't pass a petrol station! ;)

[stingred]

:) yep ..........welcome to slugville. i have driven one of these & i can tell ya
they are like a horny jelly fish (not much happens) i recon the mrs ricey lancer would give it a touch up , next time i see ya we will put it to the test
wat ya recon geoff. 0 to 60 :D

[GEN111LX8]

Thanks heaps guys. You know how to make a guy feel. Just bought an Adventra but it was exactly what I was after. I really wanted a HSV. But, wife, son, 2 dogs and a camper trailer make it a little difficult to buy something.

I believe the Adventra to be an excellent compromise. Yes, it's thirsty but I have leant not to plant the foot everywhere and I am getting reasonably good mileage. Not great but bearable (if I only have to fill up once a week I'm happy).

I have only ever driven Commodore 6's. When I took the Adventra out I was done. The LS1 makes a great noise.

I needed a car to be a decent daily driver but have some sort of cred. I will say it still gets looks. I would have taken an Avalanche but coinage couldn't stretch further. I got a great deal on the car and scored heaps of extras.

The Adventra was a great option for my purposes and I still thinks its a great car. I'm sure it will still suit many others.

[V82xist]

I think a mafless tune, catback exhaust would make it a very comfortable ride. Most guys with VR-VS 185 kw Clubbys and SS's are lucky to beat 15.5 secs so if you have a large awd wagon doing 15.7 stock then probably 15.0 after tune and exhaust, I'd be happy with that.
They are great to drive on dirt roads.
Just put a supercharger on it...simple :p

[the mooch]

I've always summed up Adventra as a good idea on paper that was poorly executed. V8, AWD, off-road ability. Then Holden stuck a sissy set of wheels on it, lifted it off the deck only a coupla inches and didn't even get the towing capacity raised! It's looks might polarise opinions, but if it offered buyers more scope for using it, holden would definitely sell more than the 80 odd they sold in october. Did I just hear a Territory driving off into the distance? :rolleyes: Please Holden, give us an AWD we wouldn't be scared of gettin dirty, and still have a V8!

[the mooch]

before anyone misreads the above post, me reference to territory is not because it has better ground clearance, better tyres etc. Territory looks the part, Adventra doesn't. But if Adventra was more capable off-road it may entice more buyers holdens way. My 2c :D

[Ken]

I usually drive a 305rwkw Monaro, and really don't enjoy wagons of any sort ... But ... we smacked an LS112 blower on the Adventra and it was instantly transformed into a real launcher. (It now has about 235 awkw). With the current tune, it gets ~16 l/100km travelling to & from work ... a mix of 30 minutes of city & freeway driving.
It is almost fun ... It would be fun if we could do 4-wheel-burnouts, but the weight & good rubber just don't allow it.

[Red CV8 R]

Ken,

Is your Adventra the Blue one from the Motor hot tuners 2 special? If so can I ask if that car was lowered or had any suspension work? I certainly looked great and going by the story went like a freight train! Made me look at the Adventra in a different way! :D

[large]

I assume ken it was the one at the Ford vs Holden show?

Well I still like my mighty Adventra and yes I still blow cars off at the lights. You need to remember you are hauling 400kgs more than an ss and still are capable of hosing most cars away come light time.

They are very quiet inside but do have quite a good note under full noise.

My thoughts when buying the lx8 was, I am buying a calais spec wagon with an AWD chassis with every concievable option for the same price as an ss wagon. Only compromise is performance which a few mods can fix quite easily. I am not unhappy with my choice but also can't wait for the mods and a good edit.
Surely someone needs a donor car for a supercharger/ turbo package!

[large]

Ken,

Is your Adventra the Blue one from the Motor hot tuners 2 special? If so can I ask if that car was lowered or had any suspension work? I certainly looked great and going by the story went like a freight train! Made me look at the Adventra in a different way! :D

The Blue adventra was Peter Starrs Whipple supercharged lx8. I have been for a ride in this car and its very impressive. Launches like an F18.
I also have no doubts it would run 12's pretty easy.

[KeenGolfer]

An edited Adventra certainly scoots along quite ok. I was in the Adventra that raced you Large at the G&D Spring Challenge :)

[large]

An edited Adventra certainly scoots along quite ok. I was in the Adventra that raced you Large at the G&D Spring Challenge :)

Had about 300k's on the clock at that stage. Feels heaps better now. Just needs an edit.
The problem I think is just a matter of perception. The Adventra just doesn't feel as fast but having taken it out on a couple of cruises with modded cars I can tell you it isn't that far off the pace.

[mavss]

I stagger to think how they actually sell these things
Apparently they don't :bash:

[Ken]

I assume ken it was the one at the Ford vs Holden show?

Well I still like my mighty Adventra and yes I still blow cars off at the lights. You need to remember you are hauling 400kgs more than an ss and still are capable of hosing most cars away come light time.

They are very quiet inside but do have quite a good note under full noise.

My thoughts when buying the lx8 was, I am buying a calais spec wagon with an AWD chassis with every concievable option for the same price as an ss wagon. Only compromise is performance which a few mods can fix quite easily. I am not unhappy with my choice but also can't wait for the mods and a good edit.
Surely someone needs a donor car for a supercharger/ turbo package!

Yep ... It was the one at the show. We have since had it tuned on a 4wd dyno (Tim @ Electronic Automotive) and it is now even better. Even with standard exhaust and air-box/MAF etc it gets 70 awkw more than pre-blowen, but the real impressive thing is the low-down torque ... 50% more at 2800rpm. :eek:

[sloone]

It obviously didn't go to the G&D spring Challenge then.... :burnout:
Or was it the one that died doing rollback burnouts.

Bonners,
Be happy we all buy what we need for its intended purposes, you just need to get it edited to give it better cruising economy and a bit more grunt.

Ken,
When/where can we see the Adventra next? Can't wait to see some examples of the blower on other cars.

[Ken]

...snip

Ken,
When/where can we see the Adventra next? Can't wait to see some examples of the blower on other cars.

It is Tim Harrop's daily drive, so it is usually at our Preston site during the day. Feel free to call Damian (Customer Services Coordinator) to organise a look & feel.
There are about 5 installations done, with several more on back-order. We only produced a small quantity for the first production run as we did not know how well it would be accepted. We are doing another (bigger) run now, which will ensure that kits are available during the second week of Feb.
It would seem that we underestimated the potential of a sub-$6000 kit. :doh:

[sloone]

It is Tim Harrop's daily drive,
Bloody bosses get all the good bits first :lol: :lol: :lol:
Shall do.

It would seem that we underestimated the potential of a sub-$6000 kit.
Better to be safe than sorry, a lot $ sitting around in stock if they didn't sell.

[Danv8]

I'm not saying that there isn't a place for slow family cars, but this thing had the worst of both worlds, pathetic performance and it drank fuel like it was going out of fashion.

Shite and I though it was a race car!

:lol:

[Blown 454 AWD]

Don't know what all the fuss is about, I can fill the front guards with smoke for half a lamp post in 2nd gear with a slush box. (with the fuse pulled on the track)

[C4B]

I'm not saying that there isn't a place for slow family cars, but this thing had the worst of both worlds, pathetic performance and it drank fuel like it was going out of fashion.

Shite and I though it was a race car!

:lol:

Maybe if you're referring to a foot race......

[sKeptiK]

To say it was slow and totally unresponsive would be the understatement of the century.

:lol: ..looking forward to your comments when they release it with the V6

[GEN111LX8]

Or was it the one that died doing rollback burnouts.

Bonners,
Be happy we all buy what we need for its intended purposes, you just need to get it edited to give it better cruising economy and a bit more grunt.

Ken,
When/where can we see the Adventra next? Can't wait to see some examples of the blower on other cars.


Guys

I'd really love to see some photos of some done up Adventra's or at least some comment as to where to look.

The edit seems to be a consistant piece of advice to me.

Cheers

[markone2]

Slow eh :eek: ..having recently aquired one of these for a week and travelled the Bruce Highway up and down the Coast with the cruise set bang on 3000rpm for most of the time I found it a most comfortable experience as did the other 4 adults along for the ride, I cannot speak for the mountain of luggage crammed into the rear but failed to hear any complaints issuing from behind the rear seat ;) …average consumption including some off road excursions and a little pedal to metal experimentation 16L per 100ks…………and if you think these vehicles lack herbs on the highway and are a thirsty machine I recommend a short spell behind the wheel of a V8 Land Cruiser …….

[gameover]

a lot of folks (including me) are having good success enabling lean cruise on these things to get the fuel economy up around a normal commodore level. Dunno why Holden left it disabled, but you'd think being under pressure on fuel economy this would be one of the first things they turned on again (unless there is some other reason).

Been a long time since i drove a stocky LS1 as well before i got the adventra, and i've never been able to work out exactly what the rationale is behind calibrating the normal mode shift they way they do. Power mode is reasonable though.

Options/capability/V8/$$$ you can't beat the adventra for value imho.

[IIV8II]

RACQ Review (http://www.racq.com.au/03_car/reviews_new/FCT_Holden_Adventra_cx8_04.htm)

0-100 8.9 sec
0-400 15.7 sec

About as fast as the Buick V6 from 0-100 using nearly double the fuel. Best take an SS or Berlina V8 Wagon next time.

I had a test drive at 4WD test track, the off road capabilities are quite good. Probably better than Ford's Territory.

They both suffer of-road - But the Holden suffers more...

[lxhatch]

I know this is an old thread but it's quite hilarious reading some of the comments in here.


They both suffer of-road - But the Holden suffers more...

I have not seen one account that backs your claims.
Every 4WD magazine I've seen says the Territory is worse off road on account of 170mm ground clearance compared to 200 for the Adventra. Glen Ridges show on TV a couple of weeks ago showed both vehicles going over the same off-road course - you could watch the Territory undercarriage gouge out the rocks and gravel as it went - where the Addy had no problems.


The Avalanche shows what performance you can get out the adventras - there are a couple of XR6 Turbos around here who are a little red faced (and that was in the dry) :D

For anyone interested, the HSV site quotes Zero to 100 and back to zero in 8.4 seconds.

I'm sure glad I did not read this thread b4 buying my Ava - what an awesome machine I may have missed out on. :)

[NewV8]

I drove the Adventra on a Holden drive day.
I like the car, its versitility and it's on the lease at work.
BUT me being a single bloke, I want a clutch.......yeah, yeah...

[HSVMAN]

I know this is an old thread but it's quite hilarious reading some of the comments in here.
I have not seen one account that backs your claims. :)

I agree. Only thing going against the AWD is Holden's (lack of) marketing and availability when the Opposition was released.
Dont know of any owners who are unhappy when it comes to comfort, power and versatility. Any fuel or power concerns are easily remedied as these things are somewhat detuned when stock. I was'nt overly looking forward to having one as comp vehicle, now I'm hooked. Simple exhaust mods and BMC filter has improved my ride no end.
I've embarrassed many so called off roaders including Territory when it comes to ground clearance and all round versatility. Original post was obviously very uninformed.
The stock VZ now has increased power from 04 models and the 6 cyl (190kw)version is a bloody nice ride too if anyone is interested. In fact it is better specced with 5 spd box and all the stability bits and no slug at all :)

[Avalanche]

If u look up awd prices in the back of motor magazine they have a couple of comments good & bad. They say the avalanche is hardly a true sports wagon :confused: it whoops most other soft roaders that are nearly double the price. I wonder what they class as a "true sports wagon". I know i sure cant get the smile off my face while blasting up the pass, or pulling an overtaking manouvre then looking at the speedo & seeing it pull past 160 while realising that the trailer is on the back. I am sure with an edit & other slight mods an addy will go just as hard as the avy. I dont tend to listen to or take notice of car reviews as most dont have the vehicle long enough to even get the feel for it. How hsv have made a 2t wagon to go stop & handle so well is a credit to them. Only complaint is i cant get it unstuck. Or should i say over or understeer & i have tried.

[VX-355]

Well, time to add my 2c worth. Lets start by saying that we used to have a VX SS 6 speed.
My wife and I first drive the Adventra LX8 and were also disappointed, but mainly with the auto - not the grunt. We then began the search for an Avalanche wagon to drive. I can tell you that back in May/June they were as rare as rockin' horse shit. AVALANCHE kindly got in touch and was nice enough to let us go for a drive - THANKS HEAPS! We then managed to get a drive of a demo and it was excellent. Shifted much better and pulled much better as well. the interior finish is all HSV class that we know and love.
We then did the deal and picked up ours in August.
Since then the exhaust has been replaced with Pacemaker Headers and a better flowing twin 2 1/2" system with no rear muffler. The car sounds absolutely f**king awesome and like a V8 should. AVALANCHE can vouch that you normally hear the car before you see it. We also fitted an SS Inductions VZ unit and it works brilliantly (lets not get off topic and start the SS Inductions saga - it has worked for me). Next we put on some really nice 20" rims to give it that mean ass look. One last mod we did was fit some 365mm 6 Spot brakes up front and 335mm 4 Spot on the rears (thanks to PWR). Now the car goes a hell of a lot better and stops on a dime (not bad for a 2 tonne car).
Next in line is a Cam and Edit by Sam, but need to wait till after xmas before I get to that.

[Avalanche]

Ummm yeah i can vouch for the awsome sound. I know who it is before i see it. We will have to get some photos together to show standard & modified. Ican also say whenever we see peta she always has a smile on her face while waving out the sunroof honking the horn , Indicating, & blasting down the road all at once :lol: Dont forget the horn has been beefed up too. And you definately couldnt fit anymore braking under those wheels. :eek: These wagons are far from zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. But maybe we are just biased. ;)

[who_me_?]

Can we see some pics on the 20" wheels please ?

Would love a V8 but I wanted stability control and fuel economy (I do 45k a year)...

I also wanted the black plastic bits not for looks but practicality. Haven't seen a Avalanche "in the flesh" but I am sure they look good...

Any of the VY/Z AWD wagons still look so much better on the road than a Territory...

[VX-355]

Oh yeah I forgot that I got rid of the horns and put Twin Triple Air Horns :mad: on. Now it sounds like a truck up your clacker if you get in my way. :lol:
I will email some photos to anyone that can put them up for me. Too much effort for me.

[HOWQUICK]

You seem to be forgetting that you've been a little spoiled when it comes to these cars/engines. You're used to driving your car which was 300fwkw stock, and is now a helluva lot more. Driving a stock "family spec" LS1 is a jaw dropping experience for those who normally drive hi-po versions.
e.g. My car has lots of go for me, but get someone who is used to driving a cammed, edited, ratio changed version to take it for a spin and my car would feel like a doughy lard arse in comparison.
Go and drive a Toyota Starlet for a week and then get back in the Adventura. ;)

know exactly what you are saying there. I was fitting a shifter to a car the other week we had previously done an exhaust, maf tune, rear end and cold air to. On test drive I thought to myself there is something wrong with this thing as it felt lame. Ran it up on the dyno and it was within 2rwkw of when it was tuned a year earlier. Dan commented "you been driving that stroker for too long you tosser" Spose your right I replied.

the car ran 12.6/109x unopened last week at Kwinana........we get spoilt don't we.

[The Full Monty]

know exactly what you are saying there. I was fitting a shifter to a car the other week we had previously done an exhaust, maf tune, rear end and cold air to. On test drive I thought to myself there is something wrong with this thing as it felt lame. Ran it up on the dyno and it was within 2rwkw of when it was tuned a year earlier. Dan commented "you been driving that stroker for too long you tosser" Spose your right I replied.

the car ran 12.6/109x unopened last week at Kwinana........we get spoilt don't we.

I bought my cross 8 (ute version of the Adventra) knowing it was a slug but stroked and supercharged, this AWD is mindblowing. I'll be at WSID next Wednesday if you want to see. Tow bar, roof racks, standard tyres and mud it will still be running 12's.

[HOWQUICK]

I bought my cross 8 (ute version of the Adventra) knowing it was a slug but stroked and supercharged, this AWD is mindblowing. I'll be at WSID next Wednesday if you want to see. Tow bar, roof racks, standard tyres and mud it will still be running 12's.

why would I want to come and see? Don't you think I believe you had it stroked or something?

[chevypower]

you cant tell me a slightly raised station wagon, with not even LSD on the back, and an open diff up front, no low range gearing with road tyres is anything but CRAP off-road.... the term "off-road" and "Adventura" or "Territory" don't go together. Unless it has a ladder chassis, part time 4 wheel drive, with decent ground clearance, minimum of A/T tyres and LSD on the back but preferably Mud Terrains and dual diff-locks, and a bull bar, it will get stuck on every trail, not to mention having the car fall to pieces.

[Danv8]

That is true but its a soft roader you can drive them in rough conditions when you can't normally drive an ordinary RWD wagon. Its an alternative to big 4x4's for drivers who go off road but nothing serious.

[chevypower]

they are the people who will get bogged the most, and wont enjoy it, all it takes is a thin layer of mud, and their car will not move - you dont plan on that happening, but in reality that's what does happen, so my advice either go off road and be kitted up for it, or stay away from off-road. Don't be a fence sitter.

[Avalanche]

depends what your version of off road is. Yeah they arent meant for full on 4wding, thats why they are called awd. The same could be said for jacked up big tyred wanky suspension 4wds. Not overly safe in the hanling steering or braking dept on sealed roads. So maybe instead of fence sitting keep them off the tar. Like my quad, big tyres ,disc brakes big suspension travel, & a big sticker that says not for use on sealed public roads. There is an in between factor for everything , no need to be so 1 eyed.

[Swordie]

Interesting the Territory has been discussed. I consider the Territory a very clever car design by Ford after some very well consider market research. It’s a car design for a niche. It's for people who want a higher looking car (SUV type look) that can carry lots of stuff and is safe. Most the people I know who purchased them are looking for something to carry a family around at a good price. They don’t necessarily want a wagon but a 4WD shape looking car like Pajero, Landcruiser and Prado. With a fleet discount they are quite competitive on price and not bad on petrol compared to a traditional 4WD.

It would be interesting to do the numbers and see where the Territory is taking sales from.

The Adventra makes allot of sense if you want an all wheel drive wagon with grunt and space at a good price. The closest thing is a Mercedes ML or BMW X series that are in another price league that don't have as much room. It’s a shame the Dodge Magnum is not coming to Australia that is one hot wagon

[emotive]

...Next we put on some really nice 20" rims to give it that mean ass look. One last mod we did was fit some 365mm 6 Spot brakes up front and 335mm 4 Spot on the rears ...

Here are some pics of VX-355's Avalanche

http://public.emotive.sent.com/Adventra152s.jpg

http://public.emotive.sent.com/Adventra154s.jpg

http://public.emotive.sent.com/Adventra156s.jpg

[chevypower]

depends what your version of off road is. Yeah they arent meant for full on 4wding, thats why they are called awd. The same could be said for jacked up big tyred wanky suspension 4wds. Not overly safe in the hanling steering or braking dept on sealed roads. So maybe instead of fence sitting keep them off the tar. Like my quad, big tyres ,disc brakes big suspension travel, & a big sticker that says not for use on sealed public roads. There is an in between factor for everything , no need to be so 1 eyed.
I'm not one eyed, i used to think they might have been alright, but since i get bogged enough in real 4 wheel drives, i wouldnt want anything softer for anything other than sealed roads, and the occassional dirt road, a 2wd is fine. There are a lot of people who never owned a 4wd who would buy an Adventra or soft roader for their first time thinking they can go anywhere, they dont take the time to learn about their limitations, and they get stuck and we are the ones to pull them out if we see them. Every time i get stuck off road, I don't plan on getting stuck, it just happens, and that will happen more often than not in an Adventra... but hey if anyone wants to bring their car along to prove me wrong, i would be interested to see what they can do. My brother has a soft roader (freelander) and we went to Craigs Hut in it one time, we ended up having to walk up the last km cos there was a little bit of mud. I am interested to hear where people go with their Adventras and Territorys. Where do you go that you cant go in a 2wd, while making sure you dont attempt anything too slippery? Dont give me a hard time for asking, seriously would like to know.

[HSVMAN]

you cant tell me a slightly raised station wagon, with not even LSD on the back, and an open diff up front, no low range gearing with road tyres is anything but CRAP off-road.... the term "off-road" and "Adventura" or "Territory" don't go together. Unless it has a ladder chassis, part time 4 wheel drive, with decent ground clearance, minimum of A/T tyres and LSD on the back but preferably Mud Terrains and dual diff-locks, and a bull bar, it will get stuck on every trail, not to mention having the car fall to pieces.

With all due respect, you have no idea what you are saying. Sure you come across people driving "soft roaders" who get stuck in all the wrong places but the majority of these people would get stuck in anything they drive.

The open diffs (front and back) on the Adventra are required because of the traction system. When a wheel loses traction that wheel is braked and the drive transferred through the open diff to the other side. This is controlled by the bosch system in the same manner that ABS is applied.
Adventra is not designed to climb goat tracks or rock hop. It does have the same ground clearance or more than most 4x4s - just not entry exit angles.
I havent got mine stuck yet and its been in snow, mud, sand, deep gravel and down the farm (dont tell the boss) but I dont expect it to do most things I throw at it.

[Danv8]

With all due respect, you have no idea what you are saying. Sure you come across people driving "soft roaders" who get stuck in all the wrong places but the majority of these people would get stuck in anything they drive.

The open diffs (front and back) on the Adventra are required because of the traction system. When a wheel loses traction that wheel is braked and the drive transferred through the open diff to the other side. This is controlled by the bosch system in the same manner that ABS is applied.
Adventra is not designed to climb goat tracks or rock hop. It does have the same ground clearance or more than most 4x4s - just not entry exit angles.
I havent got mine stuck yet and its been in snow, mud, sand, deep gravel and down the farm (dont tell the boss) but I dont expect it to do most things I throw at it.



I have seen a few Adventra's do light duty 4 wheel driving on sand and some rather rocky area's and none of them got stuck. I would of bought an Adventra but I got a Jeep Grand Cherokee instead because of its excellent towing capacity. Its easy to under estmate the ability on the Adventra but you can easily over estimate its ability as well.

[OzJavelin]

I'd LOVE to see how an Adventra or Cross8 would go with the horsey crowd (how much and an Adventra tow?). Personally, I don't need a he-man 4x4 (used to own a 5.9L Cherokee tank .. good fun though) but I'd like something with a little higher ground clearance, and more traction in slimy, wet conditions. The only thing I'd think would be a problem would be the tyres? The road tyres I've seen on Adventra's look like they'd fill with mud real quick .. and I'd think you'd have a really had time getting correct speed-rate tyres with a more agressive tread?

[who_me_?]

I use my Adventra the same way as the X5 and ML270 before - mostly on road but every week or two I go on gravel or to visit clients on farms. The confidence you get with AWD and ESP/DSC make gravel driving a dream. The extra ground clearance over a normal car results in extra confidence (no crawling down driveways looking for hazards...) and the suspension is comfortable without being soggy !!!

It isn't a serious off roader but you won't get stuck as easily as you would in a normal car. I like being comfortable - and that wouldn't happen if I was driving a "serious" 4WD like a Landcruiser etc. With a Adventra there is no climbing up into the thing either. My partner, child and 73 year mother have a much easier access into the Adventra than the X5 (or ML)...

[Swordie]

I've done about a 100km on gravel/ / dirt road in Adventra and was very impressed with the road holding. I wouldn't have attempted it in my RWD.

[The Full Monty]

To get to my house, I need to travel down 4km of winding dirt road. My cross 8 is very confident on the dirt. My wife drives a volvo XC90 and the Cross 8 is much better.

[Morgasshk]

in offroad - dirt, mud, sand, grass, gravell, rocks (not massive of course..)
i've only ever been bogged in 4x4's...

my old VK commie wagon and mates various kingswoods have held up pretty bloody good.. :P

I don't think I'd use any post-1990 model vehicle for "real" offroading anyway... unless you're made of money and don't care if your vehicle get's wrecked the paint and wheels and panels are going to be destroyed after a few runs in the bush, down creeks, up rocky hills etc...

I still think the adventra looks sexy... but gimme a VX or VY SS anyday... If I want offroad, I'll go with my mate in his rangie or rover...

My 2c!

Later people!

[Blown 454 AWD]

Dirt doesn't get stuck in your tyres if they're spinning fast enough :lol:

You know, when you put a couple a hundred more kW on a Holden AWD, all the above bets change.

You do know Holden only made these so we could put blowers on them :lol:

I haven't managed to get mine stuck yet and I've done some awful things to it, just turn up the wick a bit and you'll never swap it for anything........ except maybe one of those 483 cu blocks with a GenT-1000 on it hooked to a 5 speed Alison AWD :D

But it would still be in an Advertra, with ground clearance :)

[chevypower]

Well that's kinda what I am getting at, get a SS for everyday driving and a $2k-$5k old thing or even a GQ Patrol for the trails - after i made my last comment I did realize that in other parts of Australia like the NT, WA an Adventra type car might make more sense where its more sand / dirt, and not so much mud - but then it's always going to suffer with range too. I made my Adventra off-road presumptions based on the fact I thought the Prado and Jeep Grand Cherokee suffered big time in the mud, admittedly that was with road tyres, it's times like that you wonder if Quadra-Trac II, DATS, Control Trac and all the sales jargon really mean anything... Just like there is no substitute for cubic inches, there is no substitute off-road for good tyres, ground clearance, articulation, low range gearing, torque, compression and having all 4 wheels being able to be locked at the same speeds.

But if I did have an Adventra, and i wanted it to be as capable as it good be (without making it no good on road), I would be out getting a set of BF Goodrich All Terrain tyres, and possibly a rear diff lock - has anyone out there done such things to theirs?

[large]

You dont need diff lock as previously stated the AWD system electronically controls the traction.
Last weekend I had the Adventra seriously off road on big clay washouts at Bonnie Doon with some very steep rough climbing thrown in. The guy in his patrol was on the dirt track watching me as I tip toed through the wash outs towards him. He just sat and watched waiting for me to get stuck but a minute or 2 later I pulled up beside and said G,day. He was staggered at what the addy had just been through and just said " I can't believe you just did that".
It is far more capable than most people think.
At the Melbourne motor show last year they had all the 4x4's going around a very tricky circuit and did it with ease.
The only limitations are front and rear entry angle and road height. The traction is only limited by tyre not the traction system itself.

Best of all its a very well equiped Calais like wagon with all the goodies. Has some decent poke with a bit of an edit and its road manners are very good. Try as hard as you like to lose one cornering and its not very easy to lose control. They just hang on.

I am super happy with the Addy as its a bit of an all rounder.

Tip me over 4x4's are not for me I am afraid.

[Fredo]

Love the Adventra but unfortunately don't have one... yet!!!

This is not a chest beating exercise and there is a point to my story but I have owned 4WD's since 16 years of age - bugger me I haven't done the sums but that equates to 17+ years of alot of 4WDing...

Anyway, my 4WD experience ranges from the softest sandy beaches to goat tracks, river crossings and the nastiest of mud trails. You name it, i've done it. During this time my 4WD's ranged from a little Suzuki at 16 years old, thru to a number of Toyota Hilux's/Surfs and my current ride being a Mitsubishi Challenger. These vehicles were never modified apart from changing stock suspension to Old Man Emu to gain an extra inch or two in clearance height and a good set of A/T tyres.

Changing diff's etc was seen as just a money making exercise for the large 4WD aftermarket manufacturers. And the other reason was that I just didn't need all that crap on an everyday 4WD that was more than capable of taking me to some very remote locations anyway.

The point is - if you are a capable, experienced driver then getting stuck would be a very rare occurance. Hilux's and the like don't come with diff lock's but I don't see the point in them anyway in 99% of situations that may confront you. Sure, they are great for steep inclines and rocky trails but only equate to a very small percentage of daily driving - in most cases they are not needed.

The Adventra's AWD system is one of the best available. However, the car itself is not a serious offroader due to clearance, approach and departure angles. But, in the hands of a capable driver the Adventra will go most places any 4WD can go to the surprise of any serious offroad enthusiast as LARGE can attest to.

Chevypower - I haven't seen an Adventra with BFG A/T tyres but can only imagine it's capabilities with a set of quality high-profile offroad tyres on it. With these tyres mounted to 15 or 16" steel rims you may find the Adventra gaining another 1" in clearance - a slight tweak of the suspension may get you another 15-20mm of lift again making it a much more appealing package.

The Adventra is on my shopping list and it will go to most places i'm thinking it will surely go but I don't have various obstacles like river crossings planned. As I said, with a capable, confident driver at the wheel though, the Adventra will make alot of people very happy with it's abilities offroad.

[Venom XR]

I'd LOVE to see how an Adventra or Cross8 would go with the horsey crowd (how much and an Adventra tow?).

Holden have begun marketing the Adventras to the horse-float-towing brigade but to be honest, I haven't seen many doing it yet. I've seen a few Territorys towing floats, and the F-Series are popular, particularly for those who are cashed up with the big floats. I would bet the large proportion of F-Series sold (and they sell more than Holden sell Cross8s...) are to horse people - and Ford market them that way. If Holden wanted to attack that market, maybe they could consider importing the bigger GMC trucks, because they are plenty of older GMC trucks pulling floats around now. I bought an older F100 to tow a old Kentucky float we renovated, and it does it easy - so I see why people like using them. Having said that, most float-pullers are Landys/Patrols/etc and some Falcons.

[VX-355]

Here are some pics of VX-355's Avalanche

http://public.emotive.sent.com/Adventra152s.jpg

http://public.emotive.sent.com/Adventra154s.jpg

http://public.emotive.sent.com/Adventra156s.jpg

:) Isn't it funny how a simple thread about a car can turn from a discussion, into a bitch fight about extreme 4wd's:box: , and then back to an Adventra thread.........:lol:

[Swordie]

I wonder if the Adventra will last into the VE range? With Holden considering a Korean Territory competitor its days could be numbered.

[Nemo]

I've got an Avalanche the only mods are Coulson front seats and 19inch Coupe4 rims. I tow jetskis and a horse float on a very regular basis.
I couldn't be happier, before the Avalanche 9 months is the longest i've kept a car. My Avalanche has been around for 18 months and i can't see it going anywhere. I've had 14 new cars including GTO,GTS,VY2 MalooR8,BA XR8 ute(i had to try one) and out of all of these the Avalanche is the best allrounder, it's not the quickest or the coolest but it does do everything i've asked it to so far !:cool:

[Blown 454 AWD]

I've got an Avalanche the only mods are Coulson front seats and 19inch Coupe4 rims. I tow jetskis and a horse float on a very regular basis.
I couldn't be happier, before the Avalanche 9 months is the longest i've kept a car. My Avalanche has been around for 18 months and i can't see it going anywhere. I've had 14 new cars including GTO,GTS,VY2 MalooR8,BA XR8 ute(i had to try one) and out of all of these the Avalanche is the best allrounder, it's not the quickest or the coolest but it does do everything i've asked it to so far !:cool:



Not very hard to make it the quickest thing you've owned either.:D








.

[warlobo]

Like all LS1's it can't breathe with the restricted stock exhaust and inlet. An LS1 edit, Difillippos, new cat etc GTS intake and the only AWD's/4WD's I see are in the rearview, more power than a std GTS or GT-P at 315kw, change the valve body of the auto and shift kit it and show me something else that can tow 2100kg at over 100mph getting 500km (10L/100KM). I've done this Mel-Syd, Mel-Bris, and Mel-Cns so not talking short trips and believe me when I say nothing else commpares out there on the highway.

By the way it leaves my VY SS 330KW M6 standing still on wet roads, and most anything else on the road, factor in those quarter times stand for pouring rain as well as dry weather.....

[chevypower]

It's not as good as you think, there's not many cars that can't get 10L per 100 on the highway, as for towing 2100kg- expect fuel consumption on the Gen 3 Holden to be 25-30L per 100km MINIMUM - towing an empty horsefloat that weighs just over a tonne, our Caprice used 20L per 100km going to Bendigo and back (Monash freeway, and Calder - just cruising)

An F250 7.3TD uses 15L per 100 while towing a 26 foot caravan!!! (2 tonnes i believe they weigh)

I am impressed with the new 200kw V6 Navara - it will accelerate about as quick as our V8 WK Caprice (give or take, but i found it close enough)-, it's capable of towing 3 tonnes, and good off-road....

I can't believe you would suggest your Gen 3 will tow 2100kg at 160km/h while getting 10L per 100km - you are asking for a serious accident if you try, especially with such a light tow vehicle, and you would drain the tank in no time

[stockhorse]

Venom XR, the reason they have not taken off in the horsey world is price (they need to drop several thousand dollars) and holden can't tell you(or won't) if they are going to be continued in 06.Holden can't or won't tell me if there will be cross 8's in 06.

[slickholden]

For Bathurst my brother nephew and i hired a Territory for a week,
Up to Bathurst and around and back we clocked about 1800k's, He then took it away for 3 days and did about 700k more,
To things we both agreed on, The words OFF-Road and Territort don't go together, Fuel economy was 12.5L per 100k's on the way up with a best tank of 620k's. About 3 hours from Bathurst we filled the car with $100:eek: (Prices are bad in the country):lol: .
That car is really for a Family who does like to travel away we had the rear full all the way up we couldn't see shit out the back:lol: .
For what it is the Territory is good comfortable and nice to drive on the open roads, You just stick the chair up high set the peddles all the way back and relax your legs and it's easy driving, Performance wise it's a slug off the mark and that drive by wire throttle response is slow to react, But on the freeways it's a goer.
We took a good look under the car it's way to exposed underneath to be a real off-road car or even a slight one i would crap if i hit a rock the size of my foot:lol: . But my brother got the Territory sideways on gravel at a rest stop:lol: and he got it drifting for about 6 seconds.
But even Hertz class it as a Wagon, Dealers call the RWD a higher sitting wagon cause they really do handle like the sedan.
My brother wants one but ended up buying a BA Fairmont more in his price range.
We wanted to hire the Adventra but couldn't get our hands on one, So we hope 06 Bathurst they might have one sitting around, Love to give one a go.

[Y2kGoofball]

its funny reading peoples responses.

Before we got the Adventra the mechanics at work all whinged about it. Their thirsty, they lack power, they dont launch ... this that and the other.

Ive since taken them all for a drive and even let them drive and not one word of complaint out of any of them.

Thirsty? I get 12L per 100Ks in stop start on Sydneys M4 in peak hour, to and from work. People say an average of 20L per 100k's? We dont even get past 17.5L/100K's towing a 2 tonne boat from Penrith to Gosford and back, and if you drive the F3 you'd know theres some steep hills along the way.

It doesnt launch that well off the line, is it supposed too? That said I take on every d!ckhead that attempts to race me off a set of traffic lights, I assume with the same theory, and unless their in a V8 I am really yet to feel threatened by them ...once it gets going it gets going.

Handles like a Commodore station wagon. Ive been driving a few LR Disco 3's lately for work and they feel like a big 4x4, even a Volvo XC90 and Beamer X5 feel quite large, which I imagine the Territory does as well, but is this what we wanted in a car?

Tows quite well too, the breaking package works. The best example was a d!ckhead that cut us off in traffic then came to a sudden stop for roadworks. Slammed on the breaks, grumble went the ABS and we came to a stop with some distance between us and the car in front. Tried that once in the VS and it didnt stop quite as quick.

Dont get me wrong, we're all allowed to have opinions, but I think people that jump behind the wheel of 1 for a day or 2 tend to be too harsh on it. People that go off what is written on paper even more so. If you own one or take the time to drive one, and I mean in peak hour, you'll find its not as bad as people reckon it is.

I may be biased because I drive one 5 days a week plus weekends, but its not half as bad as some people make out it is. I think some people expect too much from them and dont look at the car itself but compare it too a standard wagon, or get caught in the "but the terriroties" bigger.

I havent found anyone thats fitted a double bed matress plus stripped down timber frame into the rear of their territory yet to take to a holiday unit ... we have in the Adventra! But I suppose we could have fitted it somewhere into one of the 37? storage compartments

[slickholden]

It gets a bad rap cause people can't look past the fact (There words not mine) It's a jacked up Wagon, That's all they think.
I think most might use extra petrol cause it doesn't have that burst like a VYII SS, there not light and everything stacks up on take offs.
Does anyone know where they hire Adventras out in Melbourne's West?, Cause next Bathurst i want to grab one for the trip.??
Volvo subura maybe a couple of others have used there wagon for a high rider AWD, So i can't understand why Holden's is Crapped on always.

To be Honest from inside the Territory doesn't feel large at all it does feel slightly heavy but maybe cause it's shorter then the sedan it doesn't feel much different from a wagon, Only it is larger in height.

[GETUTED]

AVIS at MElb airport have them occasionally, not cheap though!!!:shock:


It gets a bad rap cause people can't look past the fact (There words not mine) It's a jacked up Wagon, That's all they think.
I think most might use extra petrol cause it doesn't have that burst like a VYII SS, there not light and everything stacks up on take offs.
Does anyone know where they hire Adventras out in Melbourne's West?, Cause next Bathurst i want to grab one for the trip.??
Volvo subura maybe a couple of others have used there wagon for a high rider AWD, So i can't understand why Holden's is Crapped on always.

To be Honest from inside the Territory doesn't feel large at all it does feel slightly heavy but maybe cause it's shorter then the sedan it doesn't feel much different from a wagon, Only it is larger in height.

[warlobo]

It's not as good as you think, there's not many cars that can't get 10L per 100 on the highway, as for towing 2100kg- expect fuel consumption on the Gen 3 Holden to be 25-30L per 100km MINIMUM - towing an empty horsefloat that weighs just over a tonne, our Caprice used 20L per 100km going to Bendigo and back (Monash freeway, and Calder - just cruising)

An F250 7.3TD uses 15L per 100 while towing a 26 foot caravan!!! (2 tonnes i believe they weigh)

I am impressed with the new 200kw V6 Navara - it will accelerate about as quick as our V8 WK Caprice (give or take, but i found it close enough)-, it's capable of towing 3 tonnes, and good off-road....

I can't believe you would suggest your Gen 3 will tow 2100kg at 160km/h while getting 10L per 100km - you are asking for a serious accident if you try, especially with such a light tow vehicle, and you would drain the tank in no time


I'm not suggesting the fuel economy stays at 10L/100km at 100mph, I can confirm I have towed in excess of 2 tonnes for long periods at 180kmph and just over, sat on the road beautifully and filled for fuel once mel-syd, so I got near on 500km per tank. Used a mere $40 extra fuel (when around $1.20L tops) than when I've done the same trip without the trailer..

You cant seriously compare a 200kw v6 navara with a GEN 3 edited at around 300kw!!! You're merely a disappearing spec in the rear view mirror mr.

[payaya]

It gets a bad rap cause people can't look past the fact (There words not mine) It's a jacked up Wagon, That's all they think.
I think most might use extra petrol cause it doesn't have that burst like a VYII SS, there not light and everything stacks up on take offs.
Does anyone know where they hire Adventras out in Melbourne's West?, Cause next Bathurst i want to grab one for the trip.??
Volvo subura maybe a couple of others have used there wagon for a high rider AWD, So i can't understand why Holden's is Crapped on always.

To be Honest from inside the Territory doesn't feel large at all it does feel slightly heavy but maybe cause it's shorter then the sedan it doesn't feel much different from a wagon, Only it is larger in height.

Just like with the AU, ugly cars do not sell! Well the Adventra is ugly!

[O5BRKY]

Just like with the AU, ugly cars do not sell! Well the Adventra is ugly!

That's your opinion, on the Adventra!

[payaya]

yeah guess so!!

Why do you believe its not selling???

[Swordie]

yeah guess so!!

Why do you believe its not selling???

Some people don't appreciate a good car.

[payaya]

Holden can selll a car with 3 wheels!

They are even managing alrights sales with their rebadged Daewos!

[C4B]

Geez talk about the thread that never dies..... I wrote about the Adventra in 2004!

[Venom XR]

The thread might never die, but the Adventra will. :)

[hsvazz]

I can confirm I have towed in excess of 2 tonnes for long periods at 180kmph and just over, sat on the road beautifully and filled for fuel once mel-syd
I know you are only trying to demonstrate your point, but that is nothing I would ever want to confirm: towing in excess of 2 tonnes for long periods at 180kmph and just over...... confirms a bit of irresponsibility in my eyes

[who_me_?]

yeah guess so!!

Why do you believe its not selling???

Narrow market of buyers I suppose. They sell a couple of hundred a month which isn't that bad. After all only 800 Mits 380's were sold last month weren't they ? - and how many of those were rentals and for fleets ?

I know it won't happen but I would love to be able to buy a VE Adventra with a good turbodiesel in it...

[warlobo]

I know you are only trying to demonstrate your point, but that is nothing I would ever want to confirm: towing in excess of 2 tonnes for long periods at 180kmph and just over...... confirms a bit of irresponsibility in my eyes

Agreed.. Not something I'm really proud of.. however in excess of 50000km of high speed int.state completed without a scratch to flora/fauna/Adventra so experience determines confidence to some degree... not one of the inexperienced loonys out there on our Hwys.. of which there are many.

[brody05]

I loved the VX SS I had and still miss many aspects of it but just about everyone's got one.

The LX8 I have now is a car we will keep for a very long time. It is ideal for a family, fill it up with portable cot, pram and a weekends worth of stuff without any worries at all, the SS, well we had to fold down the middle seat just for the fishing rods ect.

It is a vehicle for adventure, an all rounder that handels exceptionally well in many conditions including ice and snow. It has the weight and safety features I know my family will survive nearly all types of accidents.

We have done 3 - 4000kms and the trip computor has not been reset once and is reading 13.7lts/100kms, not bad for lots of cold starts and variable driving conditions, I am happy with that for a big heavy V8, it might not go like the SS did but I can pass safely with plenty of power to spare.

We bought it for a reason and a purpose which it serves very well. Not only that but not every man and his dog has got one. I think it looks great in black and next to the berlina wagon, well the bells and whistles that come with it make it very good value for money.

Its not everyones cup of tea, fair enough but I think there are a few that are being overly critical.

It is a shame they never took off but from where I am sitting they are holding their second hand value a lot better than most of the other commodore range.

:wave:

[muvro]

Well, since I first saw the adventra I thought it was a great looking car and would have loved to own one.

Well circumstances have prevailed and we were in need of a new car. The following had to be considered when deciding which car to get...

-The car would be used as a good (sunday best) family car that was comfortable on long trips. I reckon the advenra 04 LX8 is one of the best looking family cars out there in the price range that it's in.

-Capable of taking enough gear for my wife and myself and two kids, away for a couple of weeks. The Adventra/commodore wagon has one of the biggest cargo areas I'd seen.

-It has to be a safe car, airbags, abit of weight behind it for dirt roads, ABS, AWD would be prefered. AWD, Airbags, and all the bells and whistles

-Leather trim and dual climate control. The leather for easy cleaning if kids spill something etc. The dual climate control because the missus is always cold, and I'm always hot... Got it all!!!

-Had to be cheap to maintain and repair. Being a Holden, and being in the industry. It can't be beaten, when compared to subaru outback and the like!!!

-The cars main use, is to get my missus and kids up to her family farm safely. It is a 4.5-5 hr drive and about 30-45mins of it is dirt roads. Sometimes very ill-maintained and very dangerous. Other than that, it'd be used on the road.

-The car will be going to the farm almost every fortnight for some time. So hiring a car suitable for the dirt isn't an option. And a sedan or wagon would cop a hiding, being a bit lower.

Realistically, it had to be a Holden, but I was open to other options.

The cars I had to choose from were-

Commodore wagon-Great choice. Good on fuel, great space. But getting a second hand one with the options we wanted wasn't possible. Ground clearance wouldn't be too much of a drama with the dirt road. But higher would be a lot safer. Stray rock etc can do a lot of damage...

Adventra-PERFECT! But been told it's thirsty. Testdrives realised what I had been told and read. But I'm comparing it to my mates supercharged calais that gets high 8sL/100kms on the highway. So it's not a good comparison. But I'm sure with a good edit and an exhaust, it should be in a tolerable range. The raw plastic sill panels and wheel arches protect the paint and don't easily reveal stone chips and gravel driving. So ina few years time the car should still be presentable.

Subaru Outback-Good looking car, not big enough in the rear compartment. Very expensive when it comes to genuine parts. Great on fuel. Very comfortable and handles quite well. Too expensive when compared to equivalent competitors.

Subaru forrester GT-Same as above.

Ford Territory-They circled the problem.... bahahahah Nah, I did look at it. But it's too big in height. Didn't go any further as it wouldn't fit in my garage. I couldn't buy a Ford, no matter how good it was... LOL

Honda CRV-Front wheel drive detered me. Other than that, the V6 with V-tech had a fair bit of boogy, and shocked me...

Toyota Rav 4-Too small.

So after going through my options, the Adventra was the option. Drove a few of them, and made my decision. I put a deposit on one yesterday and can't wait to pick it up! First thing that's getting done is an Edit. I'll probably leave the exhaust until it gets damaged or needs to be replaced. Then I'll probably put a set of extractors, metal cats and probably an X-Force system. Or I'll make my own, time pending...

What brand of extractors would you guys recommend for the Avvy?

What oil do you guys recommend for the motor, diffs etc?

Anything I should keep an eye out for over time?

Cheers guys,

Tark

[MTC]

I've got a 04 Black Adventra LX8. it's a great family car fantastic actually just like a Calais in a wagon with AWD & V8 :thumbsup: Mine has 19inch VZ senator rims So looks good, i also have HM 4-1 short extractors, a DF catback, a Sureflo OTR a HPF Mafless tune. it goes pretty well & fuel is not to bad But it go's into APS tomorrow for one of there vapour injection LPG kits & larger injectors.. So go for it you wont regret it

[who_me_?]

Anything I should keep an eye out for over time?

Cheers guys,

Tark

A couple of Adventra only things to check (may be able make warranty claims...)

1. Check the rear bumper - can be loose
2. The roof racks corrode under the black paint. One of mine is not looking good (and the car is 18 months old and garaged)
3. A few I have seen (as well as mine which I had fixed) have issues with the rubber strip bulging out between the top of the tailgate and the roof spoiler type fitting
4. All the alloy bits (under front bumper, sills and rear valance) can look tired quickly

I have a 6 and only passed on the 8 because it didn't have ESP and that is something I couldn't do without on gravel. The 6 sounds awful and I doubt the fuel economy would be much better than a 8 if you tuned it and added extractors etc. Pity no tuning seems available for the 6.

I am lost what to replace mine with something new in another 6 months or so (I have 65000kms up and normally trade before 100,000kms). I would love a VE but that just isn't going to happen :-(

[muvro]

A couple of Adventra only things to check (may be able make warranty claims...)

1. Check the rear bumper - can be loose
2. The roof racks corrode under the black paint. One of mine is not looking good (and the car is 18 months old and garaged)
3. A few I have seen (as well as mine which I had fixed) have issues with the rubber strip bulging out between the top of the tailgate and the roof spoiler type fitting
4. All the alloy bits (under front bumper, sills and rear valance) can look tired quickly

I have a 6 and only passed on the 8 because it didn't have ESP and that is something I couldn't do without on gravel. The 6 sounds awful and I doubt the fuel economy would be much better than a 8 if you tuned it and added extractors etc. Pity no tuning seems available for the 6.

I am lost what to replace mine with something new in another 6 months or so (I have 65000kms up and normally trade before 100,000kms). I would love a VE but that just isn't going to happen :-(


Thanks for that!

Yeah the rear bar is fine on this one I put a deposit on. But I'll keep an eye on it.

Yeah the roof racks have corrosion on them. Mainly the L/H one. I've told the dealership to replace it under warrenty. But if they do or not is a different thing.. LOL If they don't it's no biggy. I've repaired a few 2wd wagons before with the same problem. Owning a panel shop has it's perks.. hehe

I didn't see the rubber buldging. but will definately keep an eye out for that too.

What's ESP? Electronic stability xxxx?

The missus has been driving those roads all her (driving) life, so she's pretty compitent. But I suppose every little thing helps.

How many L/100kms were you getting out of the 6?

I took a CX6 for a test drive. I could definately notice a bit of delay from thottle depression to the car actually taking off. I only noticed it when I floored it. On normal cruz I didn't notice anything. Although the 6 did seem to be sort of "held back" maybe that's the way to describe it??? It just didn't want to get moving. The instant fuel usage was an indicator of that also... Under the same style of driving it appeared the older LX8 was better under normal (not ultra economy style) driving. Plus the options available for re-mapping etc to allow for better economy.

Will adding an exhaust increase economy?

Or would it be better to leave it standard?

I've found putting an exhaust on the L67 (super 6) gains you a heap, and also gives you slightly better economy on the freeway for some reason. Doesn't make a diff around town though.

[who_me_?]

What's ESP? Electronic stability xxxx?

How many L/100kms were you getting out of the 6?


Yeah, ESP is Stability Control - very good stuff...

I have averaged 12.2l/100kms over a period of months (combination of town and country driving). I wouldn't say I drive for economy but stick to the limits (110km/h on open road here) within 5km/h or so...

[xploit]

I drove an LX6 for a couple of days, now im not sure about the LX8 because i havnt driven a gen in about 2 years.

Now, i found the lx6 to be an extremely quiet, well finished really nice car (VZ version) and found it even had a bit of get up and go and i loved the paddle shifts.

But thats because im used to drive a bog stock 152kw 6 banger, and if any of you guys were to drive my car youd think my god... is this a commodore or what.

It just depends on what your used too, i havnt driven a gen in years, kudos to jezzab on letting me take the ute for a spin a while back but i found the adventra quite nice.

Each to their own i spose :)

bdzy88

[HSVMAN]

I am lost what to replace mine with something new in another 6 months or so (I have 65000kms up and normally trade before 100,000kms). I would love a VE but that just isn't going to happen :-(

Adventra is one of my favourites as I drove several through work. In all honesty you should look at the new Captiva when yours is due. I have driven them several times and it is far more refined than the Addy. Less power than the V8 yes but very smooth and quite stable. You also get ESP (stability) and full size 3rd row seats that fold into the floor out of sight when not in use.
Captiva just outsold Terri & RAV4 for January in NZ

[who_me_?]

Adventra is one of my favourites as I drove several through work. In all honesty you should look at the new Captiva when yours is due. I have driven them several times and it is far more refined than the Addy. Less power than the V8 yes but very smooth and quite stable. You also get ESP (stability) and full size 3rd row seats that fold into the floor out of sight when not in use.
Captiva just outsold Terri & RAV4 for January in NZ

Ah, it could be very refined but I still won't have one...

The exterior does nothing for me and the interior isn't any better - it looks like what it is - Korean. It may have 3 seat rows but I wouldn't put a child of mine back there - it just isn't safe IMHO.

[HSVMAN]

Ah, it could be very refined but I still won't have one...

The exterior does nothing for me and the interior isn't any better - it looks like what it is - Korean. It may have 3 seat rows but I wouldn't put a child of mine back there - it just isn't safe IMHO.

I understand your sentiments as I felt the same way. There are some Korean (and Japanese) cars I wouldnt put my family in but a Captiva isnt one of them. It is built well and loaded with more safety gear than most.
If you drive an Addy after driving a Captiva the poor Addy feels quite industrial, but I would still have one :)

[brody05]

Cant comment on the Captiva but to be honest I had a test drive in a VE R8 and was very suprised to be able to say the interior is inferior to our VYII LX8. The glove box and handbrake are the most obvious but the dash finish itself is not as good in my opinion.

Not putting the R8 down, it is a mighty impressive car but I just thought some of the finishing wasn't quite there. My father has the latest GTP and I am far from a Ford lover but credit where credit is due, its quality of finish is very impressive and very hard to fault.

Our Adventra has done 12000kms now since we got it and our fuel is at 13/100 but drops easily on the open road down to 12.2 without too much difficulty. Put your foot down and it a different story as with around town driving/cold starts.

Love the roominess of them though, so much cargo space.

[muvro]

Yeah, ESP is Stability Control - very good stuff...

I have averaged 12.2l/100kms over a period of months (combination of town and country driving). I wouldn't say I drive for economy but stick to the limits (110km/h on open road here) within 5km/h or so...

Great, thanks for that!

Yeah I was hoping it wasn't going to be as bad as I had heard... Have you had edit done?

If not, what would you guys reckon the economy would be like with an edit made for economy rather than power? I'd be happy with high 11s low 12s. When I'm on the open road heading up the farm. I generally don't hang around, but never floor it unless it's to overtake a slow coach... LOL

It'll be interesting to see what it's like when I pick it up hopefully on Saturday. A good two hour drive to check it out.

Thanks for the help guys!

Cheers

Tark

[teamkiwi]

Captiva just outsold Terri & RAV4 for January in NZ
wow thats a surprise, ive only seem about half a dozen in total since its release so quite surprise that it outsold the terrie and Rav. Do ya have a link for the slaes figure for nz buy any chance

[Angelo_XLR8]

what about the 450 odd KW adventra on this forum. it looked like a force to be rekond with

[emufriedchicken]

I drove a Craptiva a couple of weeks ago at a dealership and wasnt impressed at all with it. You can really see the Daewoo heritage behind the quality and feel of it. And to put even a smaller engine in a vehicle that is only just a fraction lighter than a V6 adventra really was not going to get in front of the 8 ball from the begining. I like the looks and the basic design of it but I wouldnt buy one.Besides the adventra has a lot bigger cargo area. As for being more refined to drive than my LX8, I beg to differ. It has a long way to go to get remotely anywhere near as refined as the Adventra.

Cheers
TC

[HSVMAN]

wow thats a surprise, ive only seem about half a dozen in total since its release so quite surprise that it outsold the terrie and Rav. Do ya have a link for the slaes figure for nz buy any chance

Sorry dont have a link but I'm sure it will be in the LTSA figures for regos as that is what its counted on. The announcement was in Holden's Dealer bulletin dated Feb 9 - Captiva 117 vs Terri 97 & Rav4 98 units


I drove a Craptiva a couple of weeks ago at a dealership and wasnt impressed at all with it. You can really see the Daewoo heritage behind the quality and feel of it. And to put even a smaller engine in a vehicle that is only just a fraction lighter than a V6 adventra really was not going to get in front of the 8 ball from the begining. I like the looks and the basic design of it but I wouldnt buy one.Besides the adventra has a lot bigger cargo area. As for being more refined to drive than my LX8, I beg to differ. It has a long way to go to get remotely anywhere near as refined as the Adventra.
Cheers
TC

Emu, I beg to differ, regardless of whether I sell them or not...
As I said I have always loved the Adventra (and still do) but the refinement is better in a Captiva. No clunking in the driveline, no diff whine, and the engine is quieter. They have removed much of the "Koreaness" IMO but I dont think pepole should allow that to cloud their judgement.
Having said that I wish they would continue the Adventra as it has a market of its own IMO. Imagine a VE version...

[xploit]

VE version would be nice but needs to be different too the sedan and not look like a jacked up exec.

[adeventralx]

i own a lx6 vz adventra and love it trans is beaut 5 speed auto and have vids to back it up kickin ass over a patrol on dunes. I am only talking 190kw alloytec and is a awsome cruising vehicle be it on road or dirt as they hold their ground on any surface. the only reason for not buying the 8 was equipment level due to far better electrics in the 6 as far as ebd, eba esp and hill descent which to this day still not available on avalanche which i am waiting for and you have to pay a dime for on ford territory and still you have a ugly bf falcon with crappy interior and no confort. Only draw back is angle of approach and departure through hills etc as can shovel sand in front and grade with the rear end if not carefull

[HSVMAN]

..........the only reason for not buying the 8 was equipment level due to far better electrics in the 6 as far as ebd, eba esp and hill descent which to this day still not available on avalanche which i am waiting for ........................

There will be no more Addy's apparently. They have no plans for them or Crewman/Cross6 or 8 which is a shame because they have their own niche IMO

[SecretSquirrel]

That's a real shame eh, I've got a VZ Adventra and would be in line to get a VE one when the time comes. The Captiva doesn't really do it for me. I like the 4WD Station wagon concept better than an SUV.

Si

[Bravo Brad]

And I look forward to trading my CX8 in on a Captiva, especially when Im towing 2000kg...........NOT.

[who_me_?]

That's a real shame eh, I've got a VZ Adventra and would be in line to get a VE one when the time comes. The Captiva doesn't really do it for me. I like the 4WD Station wagon concept better than an SUV.

Si

There are a few of us out there who actually want what people ridicule the Adventra for (it is just a "jacked up Commodore"). With the Adventra unlikely to appear as a VE, that really only leaves the Volvo XC70 in the same size - and that will be available in a diesel when the new model arrives later in the year. The VE is indeed a huge leap forward (I had a 15k used Omega the other day and it was a good drive)

[BenZor]

I have to say i sadl used to drive one of these.

With a MCAI, Pacemakers, 3" System, and a tickle by sonny, it actually got a liiiiitle decent.. but was still a slug... Unfortunately holdens AWD with open diffs, combined with a shitty auto dont help
Oh well :(

[3t-RA40]

Hi peoples, new to the fourms but gotter start some where.
I had my SX6 for 2.5 years now, it's my company car. I've had standard falcons, magnas and commodores over the last 6-7 years now and when I started this new job I wanted something different so went for the Adventra.
I thinks it's great. You can drive around the city, country, beach, etc. without have to go to a full 4WD. We just got back to Stockton Beach (Newcastle) today, first time on the beach with it and it did it with ease. A little bit of soft stuff to try it out but nothing to stupid.
Cheers,
Neil

[Muschee]

Hi All, I am also new to the forum and this is my first post and have a question about my Adventra.

Its a 2004 cx8 and only had it since late Nov 2007.

My question.... at a slow speed and going around corners or roundabouts, there seems to be a clunking noise coming from the front of the car as I turn the wheels. It only happens as I'm going around the corner. I've tried on a straight driving zigzag and at a higher speed and it doesn't do it then. Everything seems to be working fine, there is no steering wheel wobble (Alignment & balance) or any other thing that might concern me. So just wonder if anyone else notices their's making a similar noise around corners or if anyone has an idea what it might be.
Would it be a good idea to get someone to check it out?

[emotive]

My question.... at a slow speed and going around corners or roundabouts, there seems to be a clunking noise coming from the front of the car as I turn the wheels. It only happens as I'm going around the corner. I've tried on a straight driving zigzag and at a higher speed and it doesn't do it then. Everything seems to be working fine, there is no steering wheel wobble (Alignment & balance) or any other thing that might concern me. So just wonder if anyone else notices their's making a similar noise around corners or if anyone has an idea what it might be.
Would it be a good idea to get someone to check it out?

I have the same noise in my 2002 VY SS sedan. Not every time, and only when doing a slow turn, such as a tight roundabout. I don't know what it is. I have mentioned it at the last 2 services and they can't find anything. I have had new tyres and a balance and that hasn't fixed it either.

[TYREFRIAR]

We have a VY adventra, which is the wifes car, and we searched for months for a vehicle she liked, that was a good height for easy access [mediual conditions that make getting up or down into a vehicle difficult] and had everything here 960 volvo had, as far as leather, etc etc.

She tried everything, from ghia territories, turbo territories, captiva's, mazda 7's, 120 prado's, etc etc etc, and once she drove the adventra, even though it was a darker color [which she has never had, a dark color car] that was it, done deal.

We have added dual batteries, for the fridge, changed the exhaust, and rear mat, and the dog sits down the back for its rides to the beach, and to the hospitals/nursing homes to do delta dog, and as a comfy round town vehicle, which cruises well on the highway, and does 10,000km a year, so fuel isnt a big issue, it has been ideal.

Problem is, I cant get her out of it into something else now, as a TD 100 for touring would be a good replacement, now my GU patrol ute has gone, to make way for the SSV ute.

[Swordie]

Hi All, I am also new to the forum and this is my first post and have a question about my Adventra.

Its a 2004 cx8 and only had it since late Nov 2007.

My question.... at a slow speed and going around corners or roundabouts, there seems to be a clunking noise coming from the front of the car as I turn the wheels. It only happens as I'm going around the corner. I've tried on a straight driving zigzag and at a higher speed and it doesn't do it then. Everything seems to be working fine, there is no steering wheel wobble (Alignment & balance) or any other thing that might concern me. So just wonder if anyone else notices their's making a similar noise around corners or if anyone has an idea what it might be.
Would it be a good idea to get someone to check it out?

With my little mechanical knowledge it sounds like the CV joints. Maybe they need to be grease. I used to have a front wheel drive car and this was an issue every few years. I'm assuming your car being a 4WD this something that needs to be checked every now an then.

[Muschee]

I have the same noise in my 2002 VY SS sedan. Not every time, and only when doing a slow turn, such as a tight roundabout. I don't know what it is. I have mentioned it at the last 2 services and they can't find anything. I have had new tyres and a balance and that hasn't fixed it either.


Ok well, I'm glad it's not just me....... I will mention the CV joints like Swordie (Cheers) suggested, to other half.

I guess it's just an annoyance more than anything.


We have a VY adventra, which is the wifes car, and we searched for months for a vehicle she liked, that was a good height for easy access [mediual conditions that make getting up or down into a vehicle difficult] and had everything here 960 volvo had, as far as leather, etc etc.

She tried everything, from ghia territories, turbo territories, captiva's, mazda 7's, 120 prado's, etc etc etc, and once she drove the adventra, even though it was a darker color [which she has never had, a dark color car] that was it, done deal.

We have added dual batteries, for the fridge, changed the exhaust, and rear mat, and the dog sits down the back for its rides to the beach, and to the hospitals/nursing homes to do delta dog, and as a comfy round town vehicle, which cruises well on the highway, and does 10,000km a year, so fuel isnt a big issue, it has been ideal.

Problem is, I cant get her out of it into something else now, as a TD 100 for touring would be a good replacement, now my GU patrol ute has gone, to make way for the SSV ute.

Why does your wife need to get out of the Adventra? Why can't you use it for touring?

Ooops think I did something wrong there :confused:

[TYREFRIAR]

Ok well, I'm glad it's not just me....... I will mention the CV joints like Swordie (Cheers) suggested, to other half.

I guess it's just an annoyance more than anything.



Why does your wife need to get out of the Adventra? Why can't you use it for touring?

Ooops think I did something wrong there :confused:

Bit hard to do the most remote areas of the country, as a trip leader in the adventra.

Our 4wd side of the business here, we take customers away in groups, high country, Simpson desert, madigan line, Lake Caroline, canning stock route, etc etc, a little more than the Adventra would cope with.

Some of these trips you need 1oo+ lt water, 300lt+ fuel, and enough to get by 2 weeks without seeing anyone, so Adventra GVM isnt high enough either.

[SecretSquirrel]

I had a clicking noise when turning the steering wheel (rather than driving around a corner - it would happen when stationary too) on mine and it ended up being strut bushes. Replcaed those and it's been fine ever since.

Thanks,
Si

[Blown 454 AWD]

On the VY the SwayBarbush is connected by a metal rod to half way up the strut, the original rubber bushes / washers are set up as metal to metal in the pivoting area, this can be quite noisy when turning and can get worse when these rubber bushes chop out (which they often do)

Pedders have a new Urethane SwayBarbush specially made for the job that removes the metal to metal pivot interface, I chopped out about 4 sets in 25,000 klms until these were fitted by Pedders Mascot, Jamie there is onto it.

Haven't heard of any velocity joints being replaced as yet however, I guess with higher mileage wagons starting to appear, that will come.

Cheers

Steve

[Muschee]

Bit hard to do the most remote areas of the country, as a trip leader in the adventra.

Our 4wd side of the business here, we take customers away in groups, high country, Simpson desert, madigan line, Lake Caroline, canning stock route, etc etc, a little more than the Adventra would cope with.

Some of these trips you need 1oo+ lt water, 300lt+ fuel, and enough to get by 2 weeks without seeing anyone, so Adventra GVM isnt high enough either.
---------------
Ok well that explains it. Can't blame the Missus tho, took me 2 years to talk Mr M into getting my Adventra and I finally got one Nov 2007. Love it Love it Love it. I gave up a 2002 black SS with red leather for it and don't regret it one bit. Some people thought I was mad!!

Gotta admit tho, I'd like to change the crappy strips under the doors.......I rekon they'd look cool in chrome.........be forever cleanin them tho.

[Muschee]

Speaking about those side strips under the doors and the rear bumper. I have these streak marks down them like from some run off from ?? something. Maybe from something the car yard used for cleaning........I really don't know. Anyway, was behind another Adventra yesterday and it also had those same streak marks.

So does anyone know what causes them? and how to remove them. I've tried a metal cleaner/polish without any luck. Any suggestions?
They're ugly and I'd love to fix it.

Cheers

[luke05]

if your wagons still under warranty take it back and get new silver inserts, i did no questions asked , must be a common fault , like the roof rails going white , the sunroof leaking. other than that i love my wagon

[Muschee]

Hi All,
Just thought I'd give you all an update on the noise I was getting in the front wheels. After taking it in to get looked at it turned out to be sway bar links were loose & power steering mounting bolts were loose. Noise no more.

Very happy too......after thinking it might be the cv joints $$$$