VE Wagon.

[gravel express]

I thought that the 20" dia should be fine my big concern is that they are under rated as far as load? A couple of tyre places I have been talking to about aftermarket wheels have indicated that the wheels must meet the load rating of the original wheels fitted if not the insurance company can refuse to pay up?
does anyone have an ssv or supersports wheel off the car and let me know what load rating they have as it would be interesing to see how much lower the supersports are than the SSV wheel

Hi Bee444, go back a few pages on this thread and you will see the photo I took of the tyre placard off my SSV sportwagon, the factory tyres have a load index of 98. The lowest rated tyre on that placard has a load index of 96. Any tyre you put on the wagon must be equal to or greater than 96 in load rating. There is no problem getting 275/30/ZR20 97. I am yet to find 245/35ZR20 in anything above 95(690kgs). Which is 20kg short of the minimum per tyre. But then if you check the owners manual for the wagon maximum axle load for the front is 1100kgs.(2x 690kgs=1380kgs) for 95 rated tyres I would have thought would be ok. The above info is based on my opinions and own research and should not be taken as gospel:)

[V8SSVWAGON]

sheeesh.....sorry but i just dont dig those 20"s.......freaken nice ride but...i cant even imagine the woody action from wagons that will be comming soon...tis a blank canvass to date.

[Bombaman]

Saw about 8 of them rock up to Golden City Holden/HSV in Kalgoorlie today, think it was 3 SS/V, 2 Calais and the rest were Berlina/Omega/SV6.

Have to say, they look really nice in person.

[bee444]

Thanks gravel express so the reason they are unavailable is because of the tyres, I was lead to beleive it was the rim itself that was the prob. cheers

[gravel express]

Thanks gravel express so the reason they are unavailable is because of the tyres, I was lead to beleive it was the rim itself that was the prob. cheers

Don't quote me Bee, you would have to check that the rims are load rated as well, most good quality rims should have it stamped on the inside edge as well as the Australian, Japanese or American standard stamp. For example, with the GTS wheels I have on my wagon, without getting under it at this point in time, I can't recall what the load rating was. But I believe that since the rear tyres have a load index of 97, and they are the same tyres you get when you buy a GTS, I will assume that the rims are also rated to at least a load index of 97(730kgs). Seems pointless to supply a heavy tyre on a light weight rim. As I said before, I can only base my opinion on my limited research and experience in the area. Dont take anything I say to be Gospel. I do screw up on occassion and the Mrs is only too happy to point it out.

[gus96]

test drove a black ssv in midland mid week, very nice i must say,
the salesman took me inside to haggle about a price then tried to steal my VY SS Wagon by offering me a very low price, i had done my homework on what dealers are selling them for at the moment and almost laughed at him.
needless to say i walked.
went back this morning to show a mate and spotted a VY SS Wagon in the yard with double the klms and not as good condition with a sticker price of 42990 WTF.

i have been to a couple of other dealers and it looks like i will have to order one to get the colour and options i want, a minimim 6 week wait.
decisions decisions.

[Canters]

Penfolds in Burwood (Melbourne) has a SV6 Wagon in Karma on the showroom floor.

Looks great.......I am glad I changed my order from the Evoke to Karma. I have ordered a Berlina - without the chrome on the side, the VE wagon in Evoke looks a bit like a hearse (albeit very sporty!!).

[RABSP]

Hi Mac06,

just wondering.

Did you change your air filter for a K & N, just asking, because in case it was differnt to the sedan, unliklly though?

[mac06]

Hi Mac06,

just wondering.

Did you change your air filter for a K & N, just asking, because in case it was differnt to the sedan, unliklly though?

Hi RABSP,

No other changes other than those stated. What you see is what you get.

[mbpr]

Gday wondering what sort of prices you have been paying for the calais v
Going to look at one now in evoke.
cheers

[iloveholden]

Well i saw my first wagon today on a truck. I was on Leech Hwy going to uni so i would suspect they were going to Brain Gardner (Perth people will know).

It was a silver SS, looked swicko very very nice.

I aslo saw the wagon add again and the black wagon they show reversing doesnt have the 20" supersports, it looks like another set of 19" wheels.

[Highway]

Gday wondering what sort of prices you have been paying for the calais v
Going to look at one now in evoke.
cheers

If you get one ( V8 ) around $60K Drive Away ( with all the usual extras thrown in ) you have a good deal.

Good Luck

Mike

[RABSP]

Gday wondering what sort of prices you have been paying for the calais v
Going to look at one now in evoke.
cheers

I got FE2 & LSD, Full Alloy spare, Tint, Steel Cargo Barrier Extended Warrenty 36Months 100,00Km, and Sunroof, but there is no factory sunroof, it is a hollandia 900 with rain sensor, but thats OK i have one in my current Calais, and the advantage with the hollandia is i get to keep the sunglass holder. They also gave me Mats and Paint, Leather & Vinyl Guard protection. same specs generated prices ranging from $63K to $72K, some dealers realised that keeping the cost of the base car below $57,123 saved $2000 in tax.

Hope this helps.

[mbpr]

So what did you end up actually paying.
Looking like i can get it for 60k with 20s and racks.
Also why dont the wagons have the chrome strip above the window.
cheers

[CSP]

So what did you end up actually paying.
Looking like i can get it for 60k with 20s and racks.
Also why dont the wagons have the chrome strip above the window.
cheers

Cause Holden got cheap! :flipoff:

The chrome window surrounds would set off the Calais' nicely. Just get them done after you take it home.

[iloveholden]

Just get crome strips after delivery although not sure how much it costs?

[mbpr]

I dont think they make them for the wagon otherwise youd think they would be on there.
Any one with any more prices out there.
cheers.

[RABSP]

i think it ended up being 63K and change, because the sunroof cost a bit more than first priced.

it will be a novated lease so on road it was around 57K

They said they have done some sunroofs in SA already, by mine will be the first in Vic.

[SV805]

Saw my first Wagon at indoor criket last night Red SS, lowered with 20". Looked fantastic.

The ride height certainly makes a difference

[Marco]

Saw my first one on the road yesterday - gold Omega. You wouldn't think it was the base model; looked very classy indeed.

[SCiFiRE]

Lots of people seeing Wagosn with 20's,
wasnt there talk earlier in this thread about dealers saying 20's weren't an option because of load rating or something??

[iloveholden]

Lots of people seeing Wagosn with 20's,
wasnt there talk earlier in this thread about dealers saying 20's weren't an option because of load rating or something??

Something to do with the tyres not the rims i think

[bee444]

I just spent the last couple of hours on the phone with the local tyre shop, the insurance company and transport tas, trying to sort out whether or not i can put 20" wheels on my ssv and remain insured and the answer is NO:bawl: As far as I can tell you cant get a 245/35/20 with a load rating higher than 95 (690kg) and 96 (710) is required for the ssv and calais v
I rang AAMI who, after a long game of who can answer the question said that if transport say it is ok then it would be fine as they they will cover anything that is "road legal" . So i rang the transport department who very quickly said NO.
So I am now very angry to say the least, other insurance companies may be different but i dont reckon?? Normaly it wouldnt have worried me but this is by far the most i have layed out on a car and i dont like the idea of an insurance company not paying over a couple of kg worth of load rating if i happen to stack it ??????
:vpo::vpo::vpo:

well it seems my problem is easy fixed all i needed to do was go to a 255/35/20 (97 load rating) instead of 245/35/20 i will gain 6mm in dia. but i can live with that. now all i have to do is decide on a rim??:):):)

I guess thats why holden didnt fit them bridgstone dont make a 255 20"

[CSP]

But some dealers will sell them with the 20's from the showroom... How will that work?

[NewVLT]

I'm like a five year old on Christmas day right about now. Finally picked her up this morning....

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b140/NewVLT/DSCN0285a.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b140/NewVLT/DSCN0282a.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b140/NewVLT/DSCN0292a.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b140/NewVLT/DSCN0293a.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b140/NewVLT/DSCN0294a.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b140/NewVLT/DSCN0300a.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b140/NewVLT/DSCN0302a.jpg

For the record, Shannons are fine with insuring the factory 20's on a Calais V and for the lovers of the chrome side window strips, the news is bad. The entire rear side window surround is a one piece rubber affair and you would need to customs make a stainless cap to go over it even if you could polish up the other pieces forward of that. Bugger !

[CSP]

Other than needing to be lower by 2 inches in the front and 2.5 in the rear, that's one SWEET looking ride you got there mate!!! :D :D :D


CONGRATULATIONS!!! You'll be smiling for a LOOOOOOONG time :D

[bee444]

mate that is one fantastic looking wagon, best colour for the calais I think take the rest of the week off and drive and admire

Where shannons aware that the tyres are under rated?? just curios might have to change companies

[weekendwarrior]

could you get a thin stainless steel one made up and then glue it onto the rubber? Car looks awesom

[NewVLT]

Other than needing to be lower by 2 inches in the front and 2.5 in the rear, that's one SWEET looking ride you got there mate!!! :D :D :D
CONGRATULATIONS!!! You'll be smiling for a LOOOOOOONG time :D

The smile hasn't left my face yet ! :D

No lowering though unfortunately. It's the work truck and will be doing a bit of long distance work so she'll have to stay the way she is. I'm taking a big enough risk with the 20's, but do have the original 18's set aside just in case.

[mac06]

Just to confuse everyone further on the 20" rims and tyres issue I thought I'd post all the load ratings for VE ute, sedan and sportwagon

UTE

Omega - 225/60 R16 102H
SV6/SS - 245/45 R18 96V
SSV - 245/40 R19 94W


SEDAN

Omega - 225/60 R16 98V
SV6/SS - 245/45 R18 96V
SSV - 245/40 R19 94W
Berlina/Calais - 225/55 R17 97V
Calais V - 245/45 R18 96V


SPORTWAGON

Omega - 225/60 R16 98V
SV6/SS - 245/45 R18 96V
SSV - 245/40 R19 98W
Berlina/Calais - 225/55 R17 97V
Calais V - 245/45 R18 100V

Note the load rating on the Omega for the Sedan and Sportwagon is exactly the same, and in fact the load rating for the Ute is higher. Yet you can buy the HSVi 20" alloys for the Sedan and Ute but not the Sportwagon. :confused:

You cannot buy ANY of the HSVi alloys for the Omega, SS-V or Calais V Sportwagon, 18's 19's or 20's. You will notice the load rating on the tyres for those three vehicles are 98V, 98W and 100V respectively. So I guess the issue is really the load rating on the tyres from HSVi.

The answer is either-
1) HSVi to put higher load rated tyres on all their rims which would mean added cost to every vehicle they supply their rims for regardless of whether they need that high rating or not.
2) HSVi to keep some rims with the higher load rated tyres so they can supply these for the Sportwagons only.
3) Alternatively buy the rims only through HSVi at $595 a pop for 20's and fit your own correctly load rated tyres.

Whether the correct load rated tyres are available in 20's or not remains to be seen. I'll see if I can find out tomorrow.

[NewVLT]

mate that is one fantastic looking wagon, best colour for the calais I think take the rest of the week off and drive and admire

Where shannons aware that the tyres are under rated?? just curios might have to change companies

I pretty much did nothing today so I've got to pull my finger out and do some work sometime this week. Hate work. Hate work. Hate work. :)

When I phoned for the quote I spelled out that Holden won't factory fit them due to the weights of the SS-V and Calais V. All they were concerned about was that they didn't exceed the +2" rule against what is on the tyre placard. I said I don't know whether it's the wheel itself or the tyres that are the problem and they were cool with it. I even asked them to spell it out seperately on the policy and they have. Fingers crossed I never have to put them to the test.


Just to confuse everyone further on the 20" rims and tyres issue I thought I'd post all the load ratings for VE ute, sedan and sportwagon

Whether the correct load rated tyres are available in 20's or not remains to be seen. I'll see if I can find out tomorrow.

Well done mac. Thanks. I look forward to what else you find out.

Craig


could you get a thin stainless steel one made up and then glue it onto the rubber? Car looks awesom

You could but it might look a bit thick (or protrude more) next to the main roof section and rear door piece. Trying to find someone to make it up would be the next problem.

[Rick]

Maybe I've missed something, but if the issue was just the tyre rating, would not Holden list 19" optional wheels for the SS-V eg the 19" Supersport or Veloce, as they do for the SS? Maybe there are wheel issues as well?

Rick

[mac06]

Maybe I've missed something, but if the issue was just the tyre rating, would not Holden list 19" optional wheels for the SS-V eg the 19" Supersport or Veloce, as they do for the SS? Maybe there are wheel issues as well?

Rick

No, the load rating for the tyres on the HSVi 20's are 95V. Not sure about the 19's but would imagine they're similar.

[RABSP]

When they do the face lift ( late next year i hope ), they might change the surround to chrome then!

[Nidz]

Love the colour you got there too mate.. I would have chosen a similar colour. I agree that it needs to drop a little more from stock but still looks nice.

[Rick]

No, the load rating for the tyres on the HSVi 20's are 95V. Not sure about the 19's but would imagine they're similar.

I understand about the 20" tyres.

But the SS-V comes as standard with 19s, including tyres which meet the ratings. So those tyres could and would be used on other 19" wheels - but they aren't on SS-V yet are on SS.

Why no optional 19s on SS-Vs?

Rick

[bee444]

I understand about the 20" tyres.

But the SS-V comes as standard with 19s, including tyres which meet the ratings. So those tyres could and would be used on other 19" wheels - but they aren't on SS-V yet are on SS.

Why no optional 19s on SS-Vs?

Rick

I too am confused about the hsvi wheels, It must be a wheel load issue. If someone has any hsvi wheels off the car let us know what they are rated at?? My dealer offered me the 19" supersports untill he realised that they to arnt available for the ssv???

[Holden Man]

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc310/HoldenMan_2007/VEWagonSSLoweredStripe.jpg

Very Nice NewVLT :)

and in a perfect world >
http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc310/HoldenMan_2007/NewVLT.jpg

Shame you can't drop though !

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc310/HoldenMan_2007/NewVLTloweredChromeStrip.jpg

[Curtis-R]

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc310/HoldenMan_2007/VEWagonSSLoweredStripe.jpg

Oh man that looks nice... :bow: I'm actually quite partial to that side stripe.

[mac06]

I understand about the 20" tyres.

But the SS-V comes as standard with 19s, including tyres which meet the ratings. So those tyres could and would be used on other 19" wheels - but they aren't on SS-V yet are on SS.

Why no optional 19s on SS-Vs?

Rick

The tyres on the SS-V are 245/40 R19 98W. The HSVi 19" Supersport tyres are 245/40R19 94W. The tyres on the SS are 245/45 R18 96V which explains why the HSVi rims can be used on the SS but not the SS-V.
Therefore it's not the rims that are the issue, it's the tyres that HSVi fit to their rims and the load rating. As mentioned before you could simply buy the rims only from HSVi and fit the correct tyres.

To buy the rims only in the 19" Supersport cost $485 each , and $595 each for the 20's.

For those interested, the tyres on the HSVi 20" Supersport rims are 245/35 R20 95Y.

[NewVLT]

Very Nice NewVLT :)

and in a perfect world >

Shame you can't drop though !

They're brilliant Holden Man. Thanks.
I really wish I could get it lowered now. Bugger. :bawl:

[theVman]

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc310/HoldenMan_2007/VEWagonSSLoweredStripe.jpg

Oh man that looks nice... :bow: I'm actually quite partial to that side stripe.

I agree. The stripes are perfect for the wagon. If the local dealer had something exactly like that sitting in the yard I would have no option but to buyn it!! :bow:

[iloveholden]

Holden Man the blue SS is simply :bow: :drool:

[ash3]

Just got a call from the dealer, mine is coming in this Monday and I can expect delivery later in the week! :smilesandbanana:

[Butscut]

NewVLT, you really are teasing me now ! Still another 3 weeks til mine turns up. You should be well pleased thats a wicked ride...Have you thought about a darkest legal tint and blacked out rear window. IMHO it would really finish your wagon off. A 3M tint would only set you back arounf $400. Enjoy cruising this week and don't work too hard....lifes to short

[WGN57L]

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc310/HoldenMan_2007/VEWagonSSLoweredStripe.jpg

Very Nice NewVLT :)

and in a perfect world >
http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc310/HoldenMan_2007/NewVLT.jpg

Shame you can't drop though !

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc310/HoldenMan_2007/NewVLTloweredChromeStrip.jpg

That blue SS IS hOOOOOOOORN !

[Donny05]

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc310/HoldenMan_2007/VEWagonSSLoweredStripe.jpg

Oh man that looks nice... :bow: I'm actually quite partial to that side stripe.

Is there any chance the stripe could be photoshopped in silver?

[V8SSVWAGON]

crud...poppin up on E-Bay already_and I ordered mine in March ( still not delivered )WTF....not happy:soap: freakin nearly 5 months,,,,sheeesssh

[bee444]

I was told friday mine should be here in a week to 10 days:goodjob:

[V8SSVWAGON]

Apparently mine will be here Tommorow, it left last monday. One more sleep.

Those side stripes look neato....dont know if the missus will buy into it. Wonder what silver ones would look like on phantom :drool:

[URL="http://cgi.ebay.com.au/2008-Holden-Commodore-VE-MY09-SS-Sportwagon-6-Speed-A_W0QQitemZ370071131032QQihZ024QQcategoryZ35227QQs sPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem"]

[EddieVE06]

I was at a Holden dealer on saturday looking at the wagon. It was an SS wagon and i had a look at the rear and at the exhausts and noticed that the twin tips are now joined on to a single outlet. so basically the exhaust is a singlie tip with a twin outlet attached.

Any ideas as to whether Holden may have now stopped using the twin tip mufflers and has started using the single tip mufflers now?


Just found it interesting that that may have changed them.

[NewVLT]

Just went out and double checked mine when you mentioned that and they're as you say.

Did the original VE V8's have a twin pipe arrangement exiting the muffler ?

[EddieVE06]

Just went out and double checked mine when you mentioned that and they're as you say.

Did the original VE V8's have a twin pipe arrangement exiting the muffler ?

Yep I've only seen this set up on the wagon i saw. Will keep a look out on some newer ss sedands over the next few days to see if they are the same as the set up i saw on the weekend. might be another cost cutting excercise to just run the one muffler rear set up across the range.

[RABSP]

Apparently mine will be here Tommorow, it left last monday. One more sleep.

Those side stripes look neato....dont know if the missus will buy into it. Wonder what silver ones would look like on phantom :drool:

[URL="http://cgi.ebay.com.au/2008-Holden-Commodore-VE-MY09-SS-Sportwagon-6-Speed-A_W0QQitemZ370071131032QQihZ024QQcategoryZ35227QQs sPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem"]

I don’t want to throw rain on your parade, and I hope it is different for you, but I was told Thursday before last that the car had been built the week before and the dealership invoiced for the car. Also to my surprise that it was on a truck bound for the dealership and should arrive after lunch. That was the 24th of July, by last Friday, 1st August , the car had still not arrived.

Not sure if Toll have misplaced the car, or if the dealer is lying, or what.

It is going to take a week to get it ready for me because it has to go for a sunroof.

This is the fifth new Holden I have bought, and I have never had this before, but I guess some have, as per the link on page 67 of this post, “for those who think they’re having delays”.

I ordered in March so it has been a long wait.

[ash3]

I think you will find it is the freight which is the problem. I'm not sure if you have heard, but there is a bit of a "go slow" happening in the truck transport business as a protest to a few things. My work has bought a Nissan navara at the same time as my Sportwagon, and the Nissan dealer has said that car could be delayed due to freight.
Holden has told me that my car will be at there yard Monday or Tuesday this week and there should be no delay due to transport, I'm hoping so!

[RABSP]

Thanks for the update, i did not know about the go slow.

Do you know when yours was built?

Funny thing, sgfleet called me last tuesday and said my car would be delivered on the 6th, when i asked they said that was to me, not the dealer, but that will not be possable unless the car has arrived and the sales guy has not called me.

He claimed to not know where sgfleet got the date from, but if the car shows up on wednesday i guess he has been keeping me in the dark :(.

Yes, his lips were moving :rofl:


With a bit of luck they will both turn up soon and we can have our new cars.

[V8SSVWAGON]

Knew freight might be a bit slow from SA to Perth....Ive been waitng do long now Im over it.

Has anyone fitted Tein Coilovers to a S/Wagon yet ?

[ash3]

Thanks for the update, i did not know about the go slow.

Do you know when yours was built?

Funny thing, sgfleet called me last tuesday and said my car would be delivered on the 6th, when i asked they said that was to me, not the dealer, but that will not be possable unless the car has arrived and the sales guy has not called me.

He claimed to not know where sgfleet got the date from, but if the car shows up on wednesday i guess he has been keeping me in the dark :(.

Yes, his lips were moving :rofl:


With a bit of luck they will both turn up soon and we can have our new cars.

No idea when my was built mate, I know the dealer has been invoiced for it, but thats about where the information ends.

I'll let you know when/if it arrives here in Melbourne.

[RABSP]

Hi Ash3,

I got a call from the sales guy at lunch time and my car arrived early this morning and is already having the sunroof fitted.

I might get it by the end of the week, depending on the other stuff that needs to be done, tint and alike.

I hope you get good news about your car too. :):):)

[blackbettyhsv]

Just went out and double checked mine when you mentioned that and they're as you say.

Did the original VE V8's have a twin pipe arrangement exiting the muffler ?

I just had a look at my mufflers off my VE R8 & they have twin pipes exiting each one, when I get the car back from dealer ( warranty issue) I will look at the difillipo system I have fitted to see what it has, good question

[RABSP]

I have the wheels issue on the billion dollar baby.

It shows the exhaust for all three engines, and there are two pipes out of the rear muffler for the V8.

This could be to keep the noise down.

On Another matter, I have found out more about the sunroof.

The steel rear cargo barrier cannot be put in the forward position if you have a sunroof fitted, the rear position is OK.

The reason is, unlike the previous models the cargo barrier does not mount on the side, it attachs closer in to the centre of the ceiling panel, thus interfering with a full with sunroof.

I have had three wagons now and still have the VY and I have never used it in the forward position. So I am going ahead with the sunroof.

[Rick]

Called into another dealer today.

The exhaust on the SS-V wagon is definitely one into two at the tips. The dealer had no idea. Pity - more wagon cost-cutting to get the price down?

Also looked at the 19" SuperSports on the Calais V 60th Anniv. The tyres are rated 98W, ie identical to the SS-V tyres. So why on earth can't they assemble them like this for the accessory side of the market??

Rick

[NewVLT]

Another small problem for those ordering the fold out boot lip protector with a wagon. Holden website says it's for sedan and wagon....but the wagon rear compartment floor material isn't velcro compatable like the sedan material must be.

Took her for a spin through the hills yesterday. Why, oh why did I stay with old cars for so long ?! Twisty bits, no problem. No body roll (with the FE2 at least), just sailed around. Driving all day and got out at the end feeling like I could do it all again.

I think I'll be running out of bravery before it runs out of capability. Absolutely blown away.

[V8SSVWAGON]

drove past Brian Gardners today and saw a Phantom Wagon....I got excited and chucked a rapid u-turn and raced back to see it....but it was an ss not ssv...spewin...I thought it was mine. Looked good but it had the red interior :spew: and was an auto with 18's that let it down.

[The Brock]

The steel rear cargo barrier cannot be put in the forward position if you have a sunroof fitted, the rear position is OK.

The cargo barrier wouldn't be able to be relocated forward to behind the front seats due to it fouling with curtain airbag deployment.

[bee444]

just heard from the dealer my new wagon is in transit, i cant stop smiling already (how stupid is that but never had a 'new' car) they are fitting the kings springs for me should have it early next week, might have to be sick mon-tues as i am night shift:spew: i cant wait just had to tell someone and the missus is at work

[old holden V8]

Great to hear that the Sportwagons are filtering out on to the roads - finally!

Can one of the new happy owners tell me something?

Is that signature 'wagon' noise whilst traveling along any different to the previous generation Wagon? (VT-VZ) (ie. that sort of' boom' noise) Are they any quieter??

Thanks..

Laurie
:)

[Canters]

Great to hear that the Sportwagons are filtering out on to the roads - finally!

Can one of the new happy owners tell me something?

Is that signature 'wagon' noise whilst traveling along any different to the previous generation Wagon? (VT-VZ) (ie. that sort of' boom' noise) Are they any quieter??

Thanks..

Laurie
:)

Yep, it would be great to get some first impressions (both good points and blunders etc) of the new Sportwagons.

[The Brock]

I've had a number of V8 wagons over the years; VT, VX I and VX II, VY II, VY Avalanche and currently VZ 6.0L wagon; I noticed the "boom" when I had my VT for a while; but very quickly got used to it. All the wagons (except the Avalanche) had been lowered with bigger rims; and I never noticed it; so I think if you do notice it at all in the VE wagon you would very quickly get used to it.

[old holden V8]

I've had a number of V8 wagons over the years; VT, VX I and VX II, VY II, VY Avalanche and currently VZ 6.0L wagon; I noticed the "boom" when I had my VT for a while; but very quickly got used to it. All the wagons (except the Avalanche) had been lowered with bigger rims; and I never noticed it; so I think if you do notice it at all in the VE wagon you would very quickly get used to it.

Dead right - you quickly get used to it.

I just thought that seeing it's a complete new re-design of one of the two locally made wagon products, it would be an interesting comparison. I'm sure the Holden Engineers would have paid particular attention to the Noise and harmonics of the new Sportwagon.

Cheers

Laurie.

[V8SSVWAGON]

Finally mine is here...will be ready this friday ...but unfortunatley I fly out thurs and not back till next Thurs...so pick up will be very very early the following Friday Morning.

Q. Will the Ve sedan Tein Coilovers fit the Wagooon ?

[NewVLT]

Great to hear that the Sportwagons are filtering out on to the roads - finally!

Can one of the new happy owners tell me something?

Is that signature 'wagon' noise whilst traveling along any different to the previous generation Wagon? (VT-VZ) (ie. that sort of' boom' noise) Are they any quieter??

Thanks..

Laurie
:)

I drove to Melbourne in a VZ back in June and there's no comparison with the new wagon. No booming that I've noticed. Very similar to the VE sedan actually.

It's proving a real pleasure to drive too and the whole thing just feels "tight" (in a good way) and not like the rest of the car is two seconds behind you.

[GRC888]

As the proud owner of a SS Sportwagon I can advise that, having come out of my previous 2006 Calais V 6.0L, I have not noticed a discernible difference in interior noise.

Perhaps slightly noisier but that may be due to the deeper tread pattern of new tyres or less noise deadening material between the higher grade Calais V and a SS. My Calais V also had a sunroof fitted so this may also have some bearing.

However, one thing I have noticed is that the engine noise from the 6.0L in my Sportwagon appears more muted and there appears to be less wind noise from the door/window seals. I am more than happy with the refinement of my Sportwagon.

Glenn, Rowville, Victoria

[EddieVE06]

Saw my first SS Voodoo wagon today at the lights in front of me and damn it looks fantastic, took off from the lights and it was gone.

still saw the single out mufflers into two tips, could that be making it a little more muted?

[mac06]

The cargo barrier wouldn't be able to be relocated forward to behind the front seats due to it fouling with curtain airbag deployment.

Not correct. If you have a look at the picture of the cargo barrier on Holden's web site you will notice that it is cut away at the sides on top to allow for curtain airbag deployment. The link won't work, but if you go to "build and price" a Sportwagon and have a look at the dealer fitted accessories you'll see what I mean. Just hold your cursor over the words "cargo barrier mesh rigid" and it will display the picture.

[RABSP]

The cargo barrier wouldn't be able to be relocated forward to behind the front seats due to it fouling with curtain airbag deployment.

I was given the choice, Forward position available for the cargo barrier or sunroof.

I chose sunroof.

the curtain airbag must be the reason the mount poins are not on the edge.

[Rick]

Looks like the wheel issue is confusing even the Holden people - maybe.

I just checked and the SS options are now:

19" x 8" SuperSport alloy wheels - $1,649.00*

19" x 8" Veloce alloy wheels - $1,749.00*

20" x 8" SuperSport20 alloy wheels - $2,299.00*

18" x 8" Challenge alloy wheels - $1,249.00*

19" x 8" SuperSport alloy wheels - $2,449.00*

And the SS-V option now lists the SuperSport 19"X8", at $2,449. At least a step in the right direction.

I actually don't think the SS list is a mis-print, I suspect the difference between the 2 prices for the SuperSportts is the tyre ratings - what do we think?

Rick

[VH-COM]

July car sales figures are out but I haven't seen any posts (I searched) on how many wagons were sold in the few weeks on sale in July. I reckon they must be selling way quicker than they can build ém at the moment - still none on showroom floor at local dealer, but I have seen a transporter full of them arrive last week.

[old holden V8]

As the proud owner of a SS Sportwagon I can advise that, having come out of my previous 2006 Calais V 6.0L, I have not noticed a discernible difference in interior noise.

Perhaps slightly noisier but that may be due to the deeper tread pattern of new tyres or less noise deadening material between the higher grade Calais V and a SS. My Calais V also had a sunroof fitted so this may also have some bearing.

However, one thing I have noticed is that the engine noise from the 6.0L in my Sportwagon appears more muted and there appears to be less wind noise from the door/window seals. I am more than happy with the refinement of my Sportwagon.

Glenn, Rowville, Victoria

Great feedback, thanks Glenn!

If you say the interior noise of sedan vs. sportwagon is not a discernible difference, well that I believe, is a major improvement over VT-Z.

Cheers

Laurie. :)

[Black AH CDX]

July car sales figures are out but I haven't seen any posts (I searched) on how many wagons were sold in the few weeks on sale in July. I reckon they must be selling way quicker than they can build ém at the moment - still none on showroom floor at local dealer, but I have seen a transporter full of them arrive last week.

I believe Holden sold just over 1000 Sportwagon's in July

[blackbettyhsv]

if any of you want to bling up your sportwagon get on ebay & look under number plates

[Highway]

if any of you want to bling up your sportwagon get on ebay & look under number plates

Your plate would be great if it was in NSW

[ash3]

Just got an email from the dealer, mine has arrived this morning!

I'm going to pop over to see it this afternoon and take some pictures :)

Only one weekend left of the Magna!

[Fnomna]

The used ones are showing up as MY09 models
http://carsales.com.au/used-cars/HOLDEN/COMMODORE/dealer-results.aspx?Ntt=sportwagon&Region=All%20Regions&N=4294965857+0+834+258+287+285+1216+4294965745+&State=All%20States&distance=25&Make=HOLDEN&D=sportwagon&Ntx=mode+matchallpartial&Dx=mode+matchany&Ntk=CarAll&keywords=sportwagon&Model=COMMODORE&state_id=0&RegionID=

Does that mean they're getting some new bits compared to current sedans?
Actually, looking at the blue SS it already has the 3 gauges in the top of the centre stack.

[Black AH CDX]

MY09 started production Late Feb/Early March from memory

[iloveholden]

I was at Brain Gardner last night and i didnt see one wagon there :bawl:

Some of those examples on carsales look sweet after a little modding. :bow:

[The Brock]

iloveholden - Have a look around the back near the wash down area; there's been a couple there over the past week or so - a white Omega; black SS, and a red SS.

mac06 - Correct on curtain airbags; wasn't aware of that, thanks for clearing that up !!

MY09 was Feb 08 production onwards; giveaway is standard alloys on Omega, 6 airbags as standard across range (amongst other bits).

Had a fleet evaluation drive day yesterday; test driving new Colorado; Epica diesel and Sportwagon range; the wagon really does drive just like a sedan; unless you look in the rear vision mirror you don't even realise it; very impressive even in base Omega form; though 4 speed auto does let it down. Manual SS wagon is great with a nice exhaust note inside the car.

[Holden Man]

I read somewhere that the HSV version of the wagon is supposedly slighlty quicker than the Clubsport sedan in acceleration (maybe the extra bit of weight over the back / might launch better).

[bee444]

my wagon arrived today I will go and have a look tomorrow CANT WAIT

[V8SSVWAGON]

I was at Brain Gardner last night and i didnt see one wagon there :bawl:

Some of those examples on carsales look sweet after a little modding. :bow:

My Phantom SSV is there.... in hiding...APC are picking it up Monday for Lowering and Growler intake. Only going 25mm lower cos its for the missus and I want to load the wagon up from time to time for road-trips.

I Pick her up next friday when i fly in, cant wait to give it a thrashin.

[shane W Z]

saw one yesterday (in someones driveway as we drove past) didn't look to bad even though i only got a quick look from the rear.Didn't actually realise what i'd seen until we got done the road.

[The Brock]

Am evaluating a VE Omega wagon for work fleet over the weekend; here's the schedule...

Saturday - Perth to Williams (via Dwellingup), Narrogin, Wickpein, Kulin, Hyden, Corrigin, York, Northam back to Perth. 777 kms according to Google Maps

Sunday - Perth to Jurien via Brand Hwy, north along Indian Ocean Drive for Dongara, Geraldton then down Midlands way via Mt Budd (my surname !!!)through Three Springs, Moora, New Norcia to Perth. 1,070 kms

Should be a good weekend; will post some pics up after trip.

[Evman]

Saturday - Perth to Williams (via Dwellingup), Narrogin, Wickpein, Kulin, Hyden, Corrigin, York, Northam back to Perth. 777 kms according to Google Maps

Hey hey! Corrigin! My home town (although I grew up on a farm).

[SUPERH2377]

My Phantom SSV is there.... in hiding...APC are picking it up Monday for Lowering and Growler intake. Only going 25mm lower cos its for the missus and I want to load the wagon up from time to time for road-trips.

I Pick her up next friday when i fly in, cant wait to give it a thrashin.

the misses or the car has anybody seen what the dust deflectors look like on a car . i think they would look shithot just curious. the hsv wagon out next month i ask at their hq that is what i was told

[hyper 8]

Hope now one from here was waiting on on a new wagon next week as my sister was on her way over to Adelaide this morning and seen a car carrier with what was a truck load of new wagons parked on the side of the road. The first few cars looked liked someone took to them with a can opener. The driver was on the side of the road with his pants off shaking them out :confused:

[NewVLT]

has anybody seen what the dust deflectors look like on a car .

The Holden parts people have a photo of them in the accessories folder but it's only from the rear. As soon as I heard it had to be screwed on I passed.

[V8SSVWAGON]

the misses or the car has anybody seen what the dust deflectors look like on a car . i think they would look shithot just curious. the hsv wagon out next month i ask at their hq that is what i was told

they will both be getting a thrashing, in which order im not sure.

[The Brock]

1,740 kms in 2 days; final verdict is that the VE wagon does drive better than the sedan; and feels a lot more stable and sure footed on the road than the VZ wagon; naturally it's merely an opinion !!!

4 speed auto is a disappointment; constantly kicking down to 3rd when cruise set to get up hills; other than that the d pillar blind spot takes a bit of getting used to; but all in all the Omega wagon is a great car for the job it is suited to.

Here's a few pics...

Dwellingup

http://www.lionslair.net.au/user_imgs/987.jpg

Narrogin

http://www.lionslair.net.au/user_imgs/988.jpg

Kulin

http://www.lionslair.net.au/user_imgs/990.jpg

Regan's Ford

http://www.lionslair.net.au/user_imgs/991.jpg

Pinnacles - yes it is a gazetted road (called Pinnacle Drive)

http://www.lionslair.net.au/user_imgs/992.jpg

And this made me laugh; driving through Wickepin; just the one car for sale; a seller's market for sure there at the moment !!!

http://www.lionslair.net.au/user_imgs/989.jpg

[VYSHSV8]

Great review Dave I woudn't mind getting one for Kay for work VESS wagon mmmmm

[The Brock]

Thanks Drew; I know it's only a couple of comments, but people will draw their own conclusions. For the requirements of my work fleet; they are great; load space is reduced of course due to SWB platform; but safety levels are top notch (std 6 airbags); and the ESP is very well set up for country driving.

[SUPERH2377]

they will both be getting a thrashing, in which order im not sure.

keep us informed about which responds best to the thrashing NEWVLT i thought they came down the line as an assecory not a screw on thing thanks fellas

[CharlieDontSurf]

As a fleet manager do you think they will sell well? Can you give us a fleet managers perspective compared to say the falcon wgn and maybe terry RWD(fords sportwagon)

Cheers

[NewVLT]

NEWVLT i thought they came down the line as an assecory not a screw on thing thanks fellas

I don't think they're fitted on the line (Tailgate dust deflector/shade) but rather are a dealer fitted accessory like mudflaps would be. My favourite parts lady looked it up for me in the parts book and it's held on by four screws. Really didn't want self tappers attacking my brand new car.

[The Brock]

As a fleet manager do you think they will sell well? Can you give us a fleet managers perspective compared to say the falcon wgn and maybe terry RWD(fords sportwagon)

Cheers


I think they will sell well; they're such a nicer car to drive when compared to the VZ; the Falcon has always had that "float" in the suspension when driving on country roads; just doesn't feel as stable as the VE wagon in my opinion; especially over bumps at 110 on a country road; it doesn't have that "lift" as it comes back up from the bump and makes it feel "light"; for city reps with a heap of gear the Falcon may win out purely due to room (and also due to ded. gas option; no duel fuel on VE wagon); but if country driving and safety features are high on the priority list (as they are in my work) then the VE wagon will do well. Territory RWD is too thirsty.

[RABSP]

Well it seems like years ago, but it was only March.

But, at last, it is here. I took delivery of my Sportwagon today.

I have bought 7 new cars, and I have never done so with out test driving the car at least once, up until now that is.

I am so happy with this car, it drives like its on rails.

And the sunroof install is fantastic too, it does not have any of the wind noise that my old Hollander on the VT does.

I have a VY international wagon, it does boom, but the sportwagon is quieter than my VT Calais.

I will post pics of the engine covers when I have finished clearing them, it was too cold on the weekend to finish them.

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/NewRABSP5.jpg

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/NewRABSP6.jpg


Here you can see the sunroof:

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/NewRABSP8.jpg

[SecretSquirrel]

Barloworld Holden eh? How did you find them to deal with?

Very nice wagon by the way!

[blackbettyhsv]

just got back from 4 days in hobart today, seen a white VE sportwagon with a ladder on roof racks, definatly stood out in traffic. it had twin quad tips but no SS badges on the side, maybe it was a calais, yep looked bloody nice

[VXSS346]

Barloworld Holden eh? How did you find them to deal with?

Very nice wagon by the way!

Haha was thinking of posting the same thing.
I thought it was Barloworld too. :)

Looks great, Perfect colour :lol:
Almost better looking than the sedan. :1peek:
But I'll have to see more on the road to make a better judgement. :)

Cheers

[korrupt]

Was flicking through the new Motor magazine and noticed in their wagon article that the extra LCD "gauges" on the SS-V have been changed. Any wagon owners able to confirm this? Picture caption says it has engine oil, temp and voltage now.

[Road Warrior]

I think they will sell well; they're such a nicer car to drive when compared to the VZ; the Falcon has always had that "float" in the suspension when driving on country roads; just doesn't feel as stable as the VE wagon in my opinion; especially over bumps at 110 on a country road; it doesn't have that "lift" as it comes back up from the bump and makes it feel "light"; for city reps with a heap of gear the Falcon may win out purely due to room (and also due to ded. gas option; no duel fuel on VE wagon); but if country driving and safety features are high on the priority list (as they are in my work) then the VE wagon will do well. Territory RWD is too thirsty.

Probably due to the leaf springs in the back end eh?

I'd like to see a Calais V Sportwagon in black slammed on 19's :D

[`redoctober]

Well it seems like years ago, but it was only March.

But, at last, it is here. I took delivery of my Sportwagon today.

I have bought 7 new cars, and I have never done so with out test driving the car at least once, up until now that is.

I am so happy with this car, it drives like its on rails.

And the sunroof install is fantastic too, it does not have any of the wind noise that my old Hollander on the VT does.

I have a VY international wagon, it does boom, but the sportwagon is quieter than my VT Calais.

I will post pics of the engine covers when I have finished clearing them, it was too cold on the weekend to finish them.

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/NewRABSP5.jpg

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/NewRABSP6.jpg


Here you can see the sunroof:

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/NewRABSP8.jpg
It's my car in Wagon form!! I HAVE to see this in person!!

-Rob.

[VESSV316]

http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/VUSSUTE316/11082008.jpg
22's :D

[theVman]

Wheels arent my style but 22's certainly suit the wagon. Havent seen any decent sport wagons floating around Newcastle yet - just the lone silver Berlina through Honeysuckle most mornings. Just needs a bit of something I think its because its close to a base model wearing small rims and sitting too high. lol

[RABSP]

Barloworld Holden eh? How did you find them to deal with?

Very nice wagon by the way!


Yes it is Barloworld

That sticker came off when i got home.

I guess they were OK, but the deal was done through sgfleet.

[sheeks84]

Hey RABSP.
Great looking wagon mate. Ive put my order in and keenly wait the arrival.
Who did the sunroof?
As far as i knew Holden werent doing one from the factory.

[The Brock]

Probably due to the leaf springs in the back end eh?

I would imagine so; yes.

[GRC888]

I seek feedback on whether I should fit Calais V lower door/front guard chrome mouldings to my Phantom SS Sportwagon or not.

My previous Phantom Calais V sedan looked great and I am wondering if they will lift the appearance of the all black look of the SS.

Although there is little chrome on a SS, the rear chrome strip on the Sportwagon looks fantastic and the side mouldings might do the same for the side-on appearance.

Or should I not tinker with the standard all black look.

I welcome your thoughts.

Cheers,

Glenn, Rowville, Victoria

[iloveholden]

http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb19/VUSSUTE316/11082008.jpg
22's :D

oh man that is sweet, just needs to be lowered and some dark tint :bow:

I saw a government omega wagon after leaving the footy on the weekend and Dad and I couldnt believe it was just an Omega, they look very nice.

The white calais V looks awsome too mate :goodjob:

[Super_Matt]

it needs bigger brakes too, they look so small behind those 22's

[ash3]

Finally picked her up!

Very excited!

http://photos-c.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v312/25/62/707841049/n707841049_1139202_9767.jpg

http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v312/25/62/707841049/n707841049_1139203_81.jpg

http://photos-e.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v312/25/62/707841049/n707841049_1139204_370.jpg

http://photos-f.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v312/25/62/707841049/n707841049_1139205_685.jpg

[iloveholden]

Looking good mate :goodjob:

[RABSP]

Hey RABSP.
Great looking wagon mate. Ive put my order in and keenly wait the arrival.
Who did the sunroof?
As far as i knew Holden werent doing one from the factory.

They are not doing them because the steel cargo barrier will not go to the forward position because of the way it mounts in the VE.

Up till the VZ the mounts are on the side, but in the VE they are closer to the centre because of the curtain air bags.

Now i have a steel cargo barrier but i connot move it forward, if i need to lower the seats i will have to remove it.

Worth it though it is so quite and the install is great, also has a rain sensor.

The work was done by Prestige Sunroofs.

My only points in the customer satisfaction survey were, the switch panel is a different colour and the documentation does not mention the rain sensor.

I hope you will not have to wait too long.

And Ash3, i am glad you got yours too, I hope you are as happy as I am.

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010715.jpg
http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010727.jpg
http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010728.jpg

[NewVLT]

They are not doing them because the steel cargo barrier will not go to the forward position because of the way it mounts in the VE.

Up till the VZ the mounts are on the side, but in the VE they are closer to the centre because of the curtain air bags.

Now i have a steel cargo barrier but i connot move it forward, if i need to lower the seats i will have to remove it.

Worth it though it is so quite and the install is great, also has a rain sensor.

The work was done by Prestige Sunroofs.

My only points in the customer satisfaction survey were, the switch panel is a different colour and the documentation does not mention the rain sensor.

I hope you will not have to wait too long.

And Ash3, i am glad you got yours too, I hope you are as happy as I am.

Great job. You'd have to be happy with that. You're right about the switch panel and handle but it doesn't look too bad.

Gotta confess when I first heard about it I looked at the roof in mine and wondered how on earth they'd be able to do a good integrated job. Impressive.


I seek feedback on whether I should fit Calais V lower door/front guard chrome mouldings to my Phantom SS Sportwagon or not.

My previous Phantom Calais V sedan looked great and I am wondering if they will lift the appearance of the all black look of the SS.

Although there is little chrome on a SS, the rear chrome strip on the Sportwagon looks fantastic and the side mouldings might do the same for the side-on appearance.

Or should I not tinker with the standard all black look.

I think, due to the rear chrome strip, that the side strips would really suite a dark SS wagon and break up the slightly slab sided look a bit. Wouldn't work anywhere near as well on a sedan.


Well it seems like years ago, but it was only March.

But, at last, it is here. I took delivery of my Sportwagon today.

I have bought 7 new cars, and I have never done so with out test driving the car at least once, up until now that is.

I am so happy with this car, it drives like its on rails.

And the sunroof install is fantastic too, it does not have any of the wind noise that my old Hollander on the VT does.

I have a VY international wagon, it does boom, but the sportwagon is quieter than my VT Calais.

I will post pics of the engine covers when I have finished clearing them, it was too cold on the weekend to finish them.

Looks so clean in white with the extra chrome. Nice.

Well, 900km's up in mine as of tonight and it hasn't stopped failing to impress me so far. Coming from 20 year old cars this shouldn't be hard you'd think but I was expecting a lot. City and freeway but mostly SA country roads involved in the 900km's.

Only some slight niggles and observations so far.

Tailgate window, which is supposed to be recessed about 5mm all the way around, is sitting flush in mine on the lower right hand corner. Easy fix but not sure I want to get that huge bead of sealant cut out and resealed with possible scratches involved. I'll mention it at the first service but will probably live with it.

Centre dash display has gone berserk for a second twice that I've noticed.

Slowing down for roundabouts and giveway signs where you almost roll to a stop then takeoff again seems to cause a slight delay in getting the power down and feels like you have nothing for a second or two. This and the display issue will be brought up at the first service too.

20's and FE2 looks great but can be a pain to live with on choppy roads. The feel on the open road is amazing but I swapped back to the standard Calais V 18's for a trip to Brisbane next week (The extra sidewall just gives me a little more confdence). They're much quieter and make for a less twitchy drive on SA back roads with minimal effect on handling, and don't look too terrible. Try and drive a car with 20's and FE2 before you buy as they won't be to everyones taste.

All up nothing major and I couldn't be happier. Do the niggles detract at all ? Not on your life ! The handling and almost total lack of high speed bump rebound have blown me away. The car feels like it's getting smaller each time I drive it. Spend a good two hours with the handbook figuring out how all the toys and buttons work though.

[RABSP]

You know, some times you catch a lucky break!

The wife wanted to take the new VE to work today, but i said i needed it, so she took her wagon.

The lady accross the road did some modifications for us.:vpo:

At least i still have the VT so we both still have a car.

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010731.jpg

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010733.jpg

[bee444]

Thought I should share a couple of pics of my SSV i picked up today so far only a set of kings springs and tinted windows, but I have picked up some new 20's just waiting on tyres so i will post some more pics when they are on P.S. springs were from Luke at wholesale suspension top bloke and very helpfull. The pics arent to good but i just wanted to drive it.
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff150/1275greg/DCP_4898.jpg
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff150/1275greg/DCP_4899.jpg
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff150/1275greg/DCP_4900.jpg

[zaim]

I'm so seriously shocked as to how amazingly sexy these wagons look...

[V8SSVWAGON]

thats a mirror image of mine....what King Springs did you fit and how much did it drop ?

Ive got the Lovell super lows....dropped it 40mm all round.

Nice.

[nudenut]

You know, some times you catch a lucky break!

The wife wanted to take the new VE to work today, but i said i needed it, so she took her wagon.

The lady accross the road did some modifications for us.:vpo:

At least i still have the VT so we both still have a car.
Yeah you're never glad to have a car smashed - except when you compare which car could have been there but for chance. Shame about your wife's wagon, but it's so good that it wasn't your new ride on the receiving end ...

[bee444]

thats a mirror image of mine....what King Springs did you fit and how much did it drop ?

Ive got the Lovell super lows....dropped it 40mm all round.

Nice.

I didnt get a chance to measure it before the springs were fitted but it was ment to be 30mm super lows, just checked, rear 350 centre of wheel to guard, front 375

[V8SSVWAGON]

sweeet...It looks alot lower in the bum..mine looks about the same with the 19s, but more even front to rear...maybe a touch lower allround...looks same otherwise cept Ive, clip in clear pastics ( bonnet, headlight and windsheild ) and darker tint...get out there and hurt it mate. Love it

Peace

[theVman]

I didnt get a chance to measure it before the springs were fitted but it was ment to be 30mm super lows, just checked, rear 350 centre of wheel to guard, front 375


Bee the back certainly sits down a lot. Be interesting to see what it looks like with a bit of a load in the back. To me the front needs to come down a tad or the back up a bit. Still looks good though :goodjob:

Saw a black Omega this morning and damn it looked hot for a standard car, much better than the silver one I keep seeing. Starting to see a few more out and about now.

[bee444]

Bee the back certainly sits down a lot. Be interesting to see what it looks like with a bit of a load in the back. To me the front needs to come down a tad or the back up a bit. Still looks good though :goodjob:

Saw a black Omega this morning and damn it looked hot for a standard car, much better than the silver one I keep seeing. Starting to see a few more out and about now.

I will give it a couple of weeks to settle but may need to change the rear springs?? i would love to pull the front down further but it is almost a daily driver and the roads around our area especially at the moment are a little rough ( big hwy upgrade = big potholes and bad surface ) wait and see when the 20's go on in a couple of days. the ride at the moment is fine.

[Highway]

Good news this morning my wagon turned up on the truck at the dealer.

Should be ready next week sometime.

Cant wait but I haven't waited nearly as long as some.

My order was placed on 30th June.

[Rick]

They are not doing them because the steel cargo barrier will not go to the forward position because of the way it mounts in the VE.

Up till the VZ the mounts are on the side, but in the VE they are closer to the centre because of the curtain air bags.

Now i have a steel cargo barrier but i connot move it forward, if i need to lower the seats i will have to remove it.

Worth it though it is so quite and the install is great, also has a rain sensor.

The work was done by Prestige Sunroofs.

My only points in the customer satisfaction survey were, the switch panel is a different colour and the documentation does not mention the rain sensor.

I hope you will not have to wait too long.

And Ash3, i am glad you got yours too, I hope you are as happy as I am.

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010715.jpg
http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010727.jpg
http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010728.jpg


RABSP, the sunroof looks great. Do you know what model Hollandia it is?

I used Prestige nearly 30 years ago, same addresss - they must be doing something right.

Thanks,

Rick

[RABSP]

Hi Rick,


its a Hollandia 700 with the optional rain sensor.

Was just short of $2970 inc GST

the rain sensor was about $500 i think.

[Butscut]

Good news this morning my wagon turned up on the truck at the dealer.

Should be ready next week sometime.

Cant wait but I haven't waited nearly as long as some.

My order was placed on 30th June.

You sure are lucky, I placed my order at the start of June and I am being told my build date is set for 25th August, 1 week more at HSVI for wheels and DVD player then a few more days for transport to Geelong. Im currently looking at a pick up date of around the 15th Spetember !!! The wait sure is painfull especially given all the hot pics I keep seeing posted :vpo:

[gottacalais]

You sure are lucky, I placed my order at the start of June and I am being told my build date is set for 25th August, 1 week more at HSVI for wheels and DVD player then a few more days for transport to Geelong. Im currently looking at a pick up date of around the 15th Spetember !!! The wait sure is painfull especially given all the hot pics I keep seeing posted :vpo:

may i ask if you bought it from Smiths or Winters? just curious as to who gave you the best deal?

[Butscut]

may i ask if you bought it from Smiths or Winters? just curious as to who gave you the best deal?

Smiths. $3k discount off the recommended retail for a Calais wagon (not a V) prior to the launch date so was pretty happy. Winters tried but I have always found Smiths to have the edge. Sorry W&T.

[Rick]

Was flicking through the new Motor magazine and noticed in their wagon article that the extra LCD "gauges" on the SS-V have been changed. Any wagon owners able to confirm this? Picture caption says it has engine oil, temp and voltage now.

The Wagon brochure shows the SS-V with 3 gauges ie voltage, oil temp and oil pressure. Each has a bar-graph and a digital value. Well done to Holden, as we will now know more about what is going on inside the engine. And in particular, oil temp is an excellent thing to know as it tells you when you can - and when you shouldn't - drive hard.


And thanks for your reply re the sunroof RABSP.

Rick

[Highway]

You sure are lucky, I placed my order at the start of June and I am being told my build date is set for 25th August, 1 week more at HSVI for wheels and DVD player then a few more days for transport to Geelong. Im currently looking at a pick up date of around the 15th Spetember !!! The wait sure is painfull especially given all the hot pics I keep seeing posted :vpo:

You will probably find your build date will come forward.
The build date on mine was to be 11th August.
It was to arrive on approx 27/8.

[iloveholden]

Does anyone have a pic of the new 3 gauges?

[NRD80Y]

Does anyone have a pic of the new 3 gauges?
...and also know if older SS-V can be updates with them?

[The Brock]

Does anyone have a pic of the new 3 gauges?

http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/dealer/carsales/11459706.jpg

[iloveholden]

Thanks for that Brock, i reckon they look nicer and not cluttered.

A close up shot will tell more though, but good on Holden for changing them.

[V8SSVWAGON]

Picked her up this morning, Happy as a pig in poo.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/peettee79/DSC00720.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/peettee79/DSC00719.jpg

[iloveholden]

V8SSVWAGON - I assum thats been lowered?

The wagon in black look very very nice, gonna add some crome to it?

[V8SSVWAGON]

Yep on lovells SL. 40mm

Not sure bout chrome, cant to the whole window surrounds due to the rear window layout. Might just leave it stealth.

[Highway]

Yep on lovells SL. 40mm

Not sure bout chrome, cant to the whole window surrounds due to the rear window layout. Might just leave it stealth.

Looks the perfect height.

Should drop a bit over the next month I suppose.

Hows the ride compared with standard.

Good weekend for cruising in the new car .

[iloveholden]

Yep on lovells SL. 40mm

Not sure bout chrome, cant to the whole window surrounds due to the rear window layout. Might just leave it stealth.

Yeah cool mate, either way its a very very car.

[V8SSVWAGON]

no idea how it rides standard, picked it up already done. They look a bit week at standard height, it was parked next to a black ss in stock form, the ssv made it look wimpy.

Cheers.

[v8mumbo]

Thanks for that Brock, i reckon they look nicer and not cluttered.

A close up shot will tell more though, but good on Holden for changing them.

I wish you could get some instrumenation colour other than red in the SS and SSV. Being over 40 I have a problem seeing red back lit gauges (especially in bright sunlight) and the red centre stack screen. Some of my friends have the same problem with red.

My solution was to order a base Calais wagon with V8 but, unlike the sedan the V8 is not available on the base Calais wagon. http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/images/icons/icon8.gif

What would be really cool is if you could change the instrumentation colours to suit yourself at the push of a button.

[NickS]

Picked her up this morning, Happy as a pig in poo.

:goodjob:

Looks great mate ... congrats.

[Rick]

I wish you could get some instrumenation colour other than red in the SS and SSV. Being over 40 I have a problem seeing red back lit gauges (especially in bright sunlight) and the red centre stack screen. Some of my friends have the same problem with red.

My solution was to order a base Calais wagon with V8 but, unlike the sedan the V8 is not available on the base Calais wagon. http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/images/icons/icon8.gif

What would be really cool is if you could change the instrumentation colours to suit yourself at the push of a button.

The SS Wagon has white on silver grey instruments. The SS-V has white on silver-grey, white on redhot or white on voodoo blue depending on body colour.

Rick

[sheeks84]

Ive just ordered an SS-V Sportwagon, in white with the M6. I just had a couple of questions.
What are the standard clutches like on the M6? Would it cope with towing a boat, or will the thing fry? Its a ski boat so not super heavy, but with a boot load of gear the weight could be hefty.
Im beginning to change my mind about what gearbox to choose. Do i save 2k and have more fun, or spend extra for a more commuting and towing friendly option in the A6? Will the A6 return better economy? Are the A6 a good gearbox from peoples experience?
ANyones thoughts would be much appreciated.

[ash3]

Took her up to the snow yesterday :)

Rest assured I've cleaned her up this morning!

http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v316/142/46/538412081/n538412081_1237366_1961.jpg

[Mungrel]

Seen a few wagons getting round lately, geez they look good!
They've done well :D

[v8mumbo]

Ive just ordered an SS-V Sportwagon, in white with the M6. I just had a couple of questions.
What are the standard clutches like on the M6? Would it cope with towing a boat, or will the thing fry? Its a ski boat so not super heavy, but with a boot load of gear the weight could be hefty.
Im beginning to change my mind about what gearbox to choose. Do i save 2k and have more fun, or spend extra for a more commuting and towing friendly option in the A6? Will the A6 return better economy? Are the A6 a good gearbox from peoples experience?
ANyones thoughts would be much appreciated.


The fuel consumption of the 6-speed auto is LESS than the manual.
While not up the standard of Ford's ZF 6-sp auto it is still a very good transmission. I like tipping the lever and driving it in manual mode. If you do a lot of commuting in heavy traffic the auto is the way to go.
I fried a few clutches commuting in manual cars (of various makes) before I gave up on them.

I wish the 6-spd auto was available on the V6 models because it is so much better than the "can't make up its mind which gear to be in" 5-speed auto which V6 Calais and SV6 owners have to put up with.

I have never had any mechanical trouble with GMH autos.
:)

[CSP]

I wish the 6-spd auto was available on the V6 models because it is so much better than the "can't make up its mind which gear to be in" 5-speed auto which V6 Calais and SV6 owners have to put up with.

SV6 owners can choose a manual 6 speed.

[v8mumbo]

The SS Wagon has white on silver grey instruments. The SS-V has white on silver-grey, white on redhot or white on voodoo blue depending on body colour.

Rick
The Voodoo's blue instruments look the goods but I was referring mainly to the red backlighting when you switch the lights on and in the centre info screen between between speedo & tacho and the centre console audio screen. The red in the SSV's audio control screen is much harder to read than the blue/white in the Calais and even the Berlina's green.
:)

[CSP]

Red is far more suitable for night driving though as it doesn't cause the rhodopsin pigment in the eye to bleach at all pretty much, meaning you have better "night vision".

[bee444]

Just thought i would share a couple more pic now that I've got the 20's on. The wheels were the wifes pick, I dont think she did to bad myself???
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff150/1275greg/DCP_4902.jpg
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff150/1275greg/DCP_4903.jpg
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff150/1275greg/DCP_4904.jpg

[ash3]

Looking good mate, nice choice on the wheels, makes me wish mine was not a company car so I could up grade!

[Curtis-R]

Just thought i would share a couple more pic now that I've got the 20's on. The wheels were the wifes pick, I dont think she did to bad myself???

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff150/1275greg/DCP_4904.jpg

Even though I think they are an older style looking wheel they really look nice on the wagon.. Did you get a wider rear wheel or same all round? I'm still undecided on the mud flaps though..

[EddieVE06]

Looks fantastic IMO, nice and simple design, really looks great.

[bee444]

Looks fantastic IMO, nice and simple design, really looks great.

Thanks i am realy happy with how it looks, I wanted gts wheels but the wife didnt like them so i told her to find something else. It's good to do somthing a little different

Curtis they are the same front and back 8.5". One of the reasons we got black was that the mudflaps wouldnt be as noticable. i am getting the sideskirts covered in clear film in the next week or so, just trying to make it so we can use it and not worry about it to much.

[Vulture]

Just thought i would share a couple more pic now that I've got the 20's on. The wheels were the wifes pick, I dont think she did to bad myself?[/IMG]

She did well. Great age-less design.

[SCiFiRE]

Just thought i would share a couple more pic now that I've got the 20's on. The wheels were the wifes pick, I dont think she did to bad myself???

...snip...


Awesome. Those are my favorite 'style' of wheel. Its exactly what i would've picked if i was getting a wagon, tell your missus well done.

[iloveholden]

The 20's look nice mate :goodjob:

[bee444]

thanks fellas, they also worked out heaps cheaper than the supersports I originaly had ordered on it, wheels and tyres cam to $2700 (mates rates Falken 452's) and the stealership gave me $1500 for the originals.

[V8SSVWAGON]

Not a fan of the wheels sorry....
I prefer more spoke thickness than that, just my opinion.

The stance is a little different to mine. Yours sits lower in the rears.
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/peettee79/SSVW25.jpg

Keep up the good work.

[bee444]

If we all liked the same stuff the cars would start to look pretty boring hey. I am still trying to decide if i am going to lift the back up a bit, it looks worse in the photo's, It's starting to grow on me, i would love to take the front down half an inch but the front bumper only just clears the driveway now( the mudflaps already scrape??) Dont want to do to much the ride is way better than i thought it would have been

[zaim]

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/peettee79/SSVW25.jpg


^^ that car, has put my direction towards a wagon for my next car.

Thank you for the inspiration =)

[bee444]

I might be the only one that didnt know but the sedan and wagon exhausts are the same which will make it alot easier for those of us after an after market exhaust. just thought i would share that in case I am not the only one??

[zaim]

I might be the only one that didnt know but the sedan and wagon exhausts are the same which will make it alot easier for those of us after an after market exhaust. just thought i would share that in case I am not the only one??

the whole car is pretty much the same..... just... wagon

[CSP]

I might be the only one that didnt know but the sedan and wagon exhausts are the same which will make it alot easier for those of us after an after market exhaust. just thought i would share that in case I am not the only one??

I thought the wagon exhaust was the same as the ute which is different to the sedan??? :confused:

May be be wrong.

[NickS]

I thought the wagon exhaust was the same as the ute which is different to the sedan??? :confused:

May be be wrong.

I thought the same thing ... and I'm never wrong.


:yup:


Although I'm occasionally mistaken ...

[WGN57L]

Thanks i am realy happy with how it looks, I wanted gts wheels but the wife didnt like them so i told her to find something else. It's good to do somthing a little different

Curtis they are the same front and back 8.5". One of the reasons we got black was that the mudflaps wouldnt be as noticable. i am getting the sideskirts covered in clear film in the next week or so, just trying to make it so we can use it and not worry about it to much.

Very nice mate, congrats on a nice purchase! I am up in the air about trading in my VY SS Wagon in on one of these at the moment. Your missus done well with the wheel choice too, I myself would take the mud guards off though.
All you need now is a nice exhaust and tune and the thing will be a beast.

[bee444]

I thought the same thing ... and I'm never wrong.


:yup:


Although I'm occasionally mistaken ...


I was talking to a bloke from X-force and he has assured me that the sedan and wagon are the same, if you look in the handbook the wagon has the same length,wheelbase and rear overhang as the sedan so i cant see any reason they wouldnt be the same. maybe just this once lol..?


Very nice mate, congrats on a nice purchase! I am up in the air about trading in my VY SS Wagon in on one of these at the moment. Your missus done well with the wheel choice too, I myself would take the mud guards off though.
All you need now is a nice exhaust and tune and the thing will be a beast.

The exhaust will come very soon just trying to decide where to get it from, as for the mud flaps they are something I am going to live with for now at least as they are rebuilding the hwy we travel on so lots of crappy surfaces at the moment, I even fitted a bonnet protector last night and i didnt think i would ever put one on my cars.

[TimmyG]

Well from what ive been told and read the sedan and wagon are on the same wheels base which would mean same exhausts wouldnt it.

Cheers
Tim

[Rick]

Well from what ive been told and read the sedan and wagon are on the same wheels base which would mean same exhausts wouldnt it.

Cheers
Tim

Not necessarily. There are a number of detail differences, eg

* extra lateral beam in the wagon 'chassis', presumably in front of the diff, to add extra stifness lost due to no rear bulkhead
* extra joint in the rear suspension, not clear excatly what this is, would be interesting to know
* the rear mufflers are single outlet, the sedan's are dual

Holden would try and use the sedan exhaust in the wgon to keep costs down, but if it is not possible...

Rick

[bee444]

Not necessarily. There are a number of detail differences, eg

* extra lateral beam in the wagon 'chassis', presumably in front of the diff, to add extra stifness lost due to no rear bulkhead
* extra joint in the rear suspension, not clear excatly what this is, would be interesting to know
* the rear mufflers are single outlet, the sedan's are dual

Holden would try and use the sedan exhaust in the wgon to keep costs down, but if it is not possible...

Rick

As I stated the bloke from x-force head office has told me they are the same and i have no reason not to believe him, as he said they have already fitted them, but if anyone is still in doubt a quick call to spare parts would clear it up

[Marco]

Just thought i would share a couple more pic now that I've got the 20's on. The wheels were the wifes pick, I dont think she did to bad myself???

That looks amazing. Lowered wagons are the new Commodore hotness IMHO :)

[Rystar]

hi guys.
these wagons look fantastic. it probably wont be for another year till i can get one, but i will be getting one.

could someone pls measure the length and width of the cargo area with the seats up and down????

cheers
Ryan

one more thing....
can anybody confirm that the rim offset needed is 40mm and the bolt pattern is 5-120

cheers
Ryan

[VH-COM]

could someone pls measure the length and width of the cargo area with the seats up and down????



Holden Fleet Brief for August says on page 4 with seats folded cargo items of 1980mm long x 1201mm wide are possible .

http://www.holdencampaign.com.au/Fleetbrief08/#/1/

Worth a look... some nice photos of Wagon

[Sean66]

VE Wagon.....I finally got mine. Had to wait nearly 6 months but I think its been worth it. Got an SS 6sp manual in Atomic Metallic. Only driven about 400km so far so its still being run in. BUT...from the looks and comments Im getting...I like it and so do the people who have seen me driving it around.

Anyone out there also go one? Whats your opinion on it so far?

Cheers

[V8SSVWAGON]

The misses likes her ssv...so far 800km and several nice peel's and spinwizzers.
These motors are run in / bedded in at the factory...get in it and belt the living be-jesus out of that thing from the get go or it wont respect you.

[Sean66]

Thanks V8SSVWagon. Ive not done the spins etc...but will take your advice into consideration. Ive got the first one in town and people are looking at it. Even had a guy take a photo with his phone when I parked next to his ute. Even I havent taken a photo yet for myself. Will do that this weekend.

[RABSP]

Finally had a warm day, so I used it to finish the engine covers for the Sportwagon.

They still need a cut, but I will let the paint cure for a week first, so the centers are a but dirty, but you get the idea.

I did end up putting the bonnet and headlight covers along with the mud flaps, as you know mine is white so the contrast works well, still I need another nice day so I can wash it and take some pics of the finished thing.

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010748.jpg

[Sean66]

RABSP....excellent work. You will love the car when u get it.

[RABSP]

Thanks sean, i have actually had the car for two weeks, but i started working the covers about a month ago.

On another matter.

Guys,

I was reading in the manual about the pollen filter, has anyone had one fitted?

Are they any good?

How much are they?

[mosoto]

you might find it's already installed, you'd have to take the glovebox out to check I think!!??

[Sean66]

RABSP

According to the Holden site/ accessories list, the pollen filters are $48.40. Sorry cant help you with the location. Handbook is the best sourcce I guess.

As for the engine cover, did you make it yourself? It sure beats the plastic cover Holden puts on them. I was very disappointed to find that the cover is plastic. :goodjob:

[RABSP]

RABSP

According to the Holden site/ accessories list, the pollen filters are $48.40. Sorry cant help you with the location. Handbook is the best sourcce I guess.

As for the engine cover, did you make it yourself? It sure beats the plastic cover Holden puts on them. I was very disappointed to find that the cover is plastic. :goodjob:

Yes,

i got a set of Gen4 covers for the VZ, they were about $140 for both.

Took me about 10 hours of air brush work, lot of time masking.

I had done some for friends and i did the wifes but i left my LS1 covers on the VT as standard red, but this time i wanted something special.

There is a thread here on the LS1 forum where there are some very good examples of engine covers including some of mine. But i dont know how to link internally but here is the full link.

Thanks for the info.

http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=102170&page=3

[Excellent]

I followed a green SV6 on the weekend. I never thought I'd say this about a wagon but that car looked like sex on wheels. It did look attractive, especially from behind. :goodjob:

[NewVLT]

Where on earth are all the wagons ? In the four weeks I've had mine I've only seen two on the road (a white Omega and a red Berlina) and a white Calais V 6 at the dealer in for service at the same time as mine was.

Just got back from a quick Adelaide-Brisbane-Adelaide trip in the last eight days and now have almost 5800km's on the clock. I swapped the 20's for the standard Calais 18's for the trip to make things a little more comfortable on some pretty rugged bitumen and as a place to spend sitting for four days the Calais V is just brilliant.

Some stats for anyone wanting real world figures with a fully loaded V8 wagon -
Total distance - 4237km's
Average speed - 93.0km/h
Average mileage - 10.72 l/100km

Average mileage on the return trip over 2035km's (Ipswich/Toowoomba/Cobar/Adelaide) was only 10.47 l/100km's so she's obviously freeing up a bit. There were also some pretty ballistic overtaking manouvres involved in those figures so taking it very easily would result in better numbers.

Certainly is the ultimate long distance weapon. Overtaking ability anytime, anywhere (almost) is breathtaking and you arrive at the other end feeling like you could do it all over again....after a day or so anyway. :)

To get back to my original point, I only saw one black Omega in the whole trip (in Brisbane). Plenty of gawkers in cars going the other way though, which was nice. Guy in a Honda Odessy almost ran off the road trying to get a look.

[Sean66]

NewVLT

Glad to hear you are enjoying the car. Ive only had mine just over a week and not had the chance to put in the miles. I will be driving to Perth in 4 weeks so thats about 1800km to really get the feel for the cars performance.

I agree with your figures...i did a short run recently..about 250km and ave speed was just less that 100km/h and fuel was around 11lt/100.

as for the gawkers...i love it. mine is the first Sportwagon in town. There are plenty of V8's around but people are staring and even taking pictures. Im enjoying the 'fame' while the novelty lasts.

[bee444]

I know what you mean VLT I have not seen any other wagons on the road yet, have had ours just over 2 weeks and done 1300k's going to hobart this weekend so there goes another 6-7 hundred, but gee I have loved every one of them. Plenty of people snapping there necks around here as it drive's past, very funny to watch.
Brad from Mr Muffler rang today to let me know that the new exhaust is on it's way, It will be nice to have a note.

[mosoto]

I must admit I don't see many around but I am curious about the delay in them appearing on here. I mean the Wagon has been out for some time and only NOW is gettin attention............am I missing something here..........

[RABSP]

Where on earth are all the wagons ? In the four weeks I've had mine I've only seen two on the road (a white Omega and a red Berlina) and a white Calais V 6 at the dealer in for service at the same time as mine was.

Just got back from a quick Adelaide-Brisbane-Adelaide trip in the last eight days and now have almost 5800km's on the clock. I swapped the 20's for the standard Calais 18's for the trip to make things a little more comfortable on some pretty rugged bitumen and as a place to spend sitting for four days the Calais V is just brilliant.

Some stats for anyone wanting real world figures with a fully loaded V8 wagon -
Total distance - 4237km's
Average speed - 93.0km/h
Average mileage - 10.72 l/100km

Average mileage on the return trip over 2035km's (Ipswich/Toowoomba/Cobar/Adelaide) was only 10.47 l/100km's so she's obviously freeing up a bit. There were also some pretty ballistic overtaking manouvres involved in those figures so taking it very easily would result in better numbers.

Certainly is the ultimate long distance weapon. Overtaking ability anytime, anywhere (almost) is breathtaking and you arrive at the other end feeling like you could do it all over again....after a day or so anyway. :)

To get back to my original point, I only saw one black Omega in the whole trip (in Brisbane). Plenty of gawkers in cars going the other way though, which was nice. Guy in a Honda Odessy almost ran off the road trying to get a look.

You have a point there, the day after I got mine, I drove to Bendigo and just coming into town I saw another one coming the other way, looked just like yours NewVLT, don’t think it was you, but we both slowed down to take a look at each others cars, but in the two weeks since, I have not seen any on the road, but I am getting lots of looks, I like showing off the engine covers too.

I have done 1300Km so far and am averaging 10.5l/100Km .

[ash3]

You have a point there, the day after I got mine, I drove to Bendigo and just coming into town I saw another one coming the other way, looked just like yours NewVLT, don’t think it was you, but we both slowed down to take a look at each others cars, but in the two weeks since, I have not seen any on the road, but I am getting lots of looks, I like showing off the engine covers too.

I have done 1300Km so far and am averaging 10.5l/100Km .


Could have been me, I drove to Bendigo the day after I got mine (13/08/08)

I've seen two on the road since I picked mine up (a goldish Omega and a Red SS)

I'm waiting till I get some time off work to get some nice pics of mine up here, I got the windows tinted last week and it looks tickaty boo.

I'm so happy with it. Well worth the wait!

[RABSP]

Could have been me, I drove to Bendigo the day after I got mine (13/08/08)

I've seen two on the road since I picked mine up (a goldish Omega and a Red SS)

I'm waiting till I get some time off work to get some nice pics of mine up here, I got the windows tinted last week and it looks tickaty boo.

I'm so happy with it. Well worth the wait!

sad to say it was not you, yours is black, this was Karma.

This was coming in via sutton grange, i always take my cars through there, it really shows what they can do.

Have you taken it that way?

[ash3]

Can't say I have, I have to head up there on Monday for work, so I'll give it a bash - thanks for the tip! :goodjob:

I took her up to Lake Mountain a couple of weeks ago through the spurs, but most of the road was under snow on the reefton spur so I had to take it easy (even though it is embarrassing to say this, this is my first rear wheel drive car, so I'm on abit of a learning curve - I've always has FWD or AWD)

[RABSP]

Can't say I have, I have to head up there on Monday for work, so I'll give it a bash - thanks for the tip! :goodjob:

I took her up to Lake Mountain a couple of weeks ago through the spurs, but most of the road was under snow on the reefton spur so I had to take it easy (even though it is embarrassing to say this, this is my first rear wheel drive car, so I'm on abit of a learning curve - I've always has FWD or AWD)

When you get to the end of the new section of freeway, turn right not left, the signs will point to sutton grange, narrow roads, but usually very quiet, really test the handeling.

Enjoy :)

[Canters]

sad to say it was not you, yours is black, this was Karma.

This was coming in via sutton grange, i always take my cars through there, it really shows what they can do.

Have you taken it that way?

How did it look in Karma??

I am hopefully getting mine next week.....but only in a Berlina

[V8SSVWAGON]

Ive a few here in Perth...no ss's or SSV's, only calais and Omega's I think. Sure it wont be long theres plenty going through the dealer where I got mine.

[RABSP]

How did it look in Karma??

I am hopefully getting mine next week.....but only in a Berlina

it looked good, I came very close to getting Karma but in the end i got White.

I assure you, you will love it.

[NewVLT]

Sean and Bee, you'll love the long distance stuff. Good luck with the trips.
How good would they be on Tassie's roads !!

Engine covers look great RABSP. Got to admit I was a little underwhelmed when I first opened the bonnet on mine but I'll leave this one alone. I've got two VL's that keep me more than busy enough. :)

I guess it is early days yet for spotting them with a lot of people probably only noticing them for the first time during the advertising throughout the Olympics. Salesman says they're moving out the door pretty well. It'd be interesting to see Holdens numbers for them and the breakdown of types ordered, but they usually keep those figures pretty close to their chests unfortunately.

[mosoto]

One of our sales team takes delivery of his next week. He's purchased the V8 Calais V fully loaded leather/satnav/roof DVD/rear cameras, the whole kit'n'kaboodle. Lookin' forward to seeing it in the flesh.

[RABSP]

One of our sales team takes delivery of his next week. He's purchased the V8 Calais V fully loaded leather/satnav/roof DVD/rear cameras, the whole kit'n'kaboodle. Lookin' forward to seeing it in the flesh.

Did they intergrate the camera into the dash scree or is it the external one?

[mosoto]

I don't know, I'll ask him on Monday.

[Sean66]

Ahh it is so comforting to hear that people who actually own/drive the Sportwagon are enjoying themselves. Prior to getting mine I Googled websites till the cows came home. All I read was how bad Holdens are and that the Sportwagon was a waste of time. Made me think about my choice.

I still went ahead and for now...no regrets. After drivng a Nissan Patrol and filling that sucker up, paying around $112 to fill up the wagon is bliss to the wallet. Cant wait for the fuel card!

Yes head turn and even Mr Plod has had a quick glance. In Atomic Metallic green my car stands out in a crowd but I DONT CARE. Cant wait to get back to Perth and see if there are any more wagons on the road. :)

[V8SSVWAGON]

SEAN66...you will see my Phanton SSV around Willetton Area, can wait to see Green in the flesh cos it looks good on the ute.

[Sean66]

V8SSVWAGON

Willetton was my old stomping ground. Still have rellies there so there is a good chance I may see your SSV. The green is a nice colour and certainly stands out. Its much better in full sunlight, as the metallic components in the paint give it a glow.

On the topic of paint, its a bugger of a job washing and polishing cars. In Hedland I have to content with iron ore dust, salt and pindan stains. I see my weekends disappearing in a blur of Meguiar's foam and polish. Anyone know a good detailer in Perth who does mobile visits? (Not visits to Hedland)

Had to fill the tank for the first time on Friday. 63lts, $112. Average fuel consumption was around the 14lts/100. I just hit 500km when the low fuel warning came on for the first time. This was a combination of 250kms driving back from Karratha and stop/start driving in Hedand. I expect much better figures when driving back to Perth, fingers crossed.

[RABSP]

I could not help myself, you don't see the engine covers very often, so I did the V Badge. :)

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010750.jpg

[Sean66]

RABSP

NICE! What else you got planned for the car?

[Holden Man]

RABSP - that looks cool (awesome job too considering the size)

[RABSP]

The size did make it hard, smallest set of flames I’ve done.

I might paint the standard engine cover for fun, on the whole I think I am done though, but I need to get the VT cleaned up and ready for sale.

I also have jobs queuing up, people want flames on X-Box’s of all things, and the wife wants me to re-do her engine covers.

Here is one I’m working on, on a standard turtle shell, it is nearly ready for clear.



http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010700.jpg

[iloveholden]

Is that airbush work mate?

Looks great :goodjob:

[RABSP]

Is that airbush work mate?

Looks great :goodjob:

Yes! about 20 hours worth so far, just needs a bit or clean up and clear, maybe another 5 hours work, been a bit cold and wet to finish.

[iloveholden]

Yes! about 20 hours worth so far, just needs a bit or clean up and clear, maybe another 5 hours work, been a bit cold and wet to finish.

Good stuff mate, i didnt release so many hours goes into something like that.

[Sean66]

I was wondering if anyone knows why Holden recommends not using the cruise control? The owners manual for the wagon says not to use the cruise control for the first 1000-1500km.

Sorry for the 'daft questions'. This is my first Holden and first V8 car. Kinda new to all of this. Cheers.

[NewVLT]

I was wondering if anyone knows why Holden recommends not using the cruise control? The owners manual for the wagon says not to use the cruise control for the first 1000-1500km.

Sorry for the 'daft questions'. This is my first Holden and first V8 car. Kinda new to all of this. Cheers.

It's more to do with varying the engine speed during that period than not using the cruise control. There certainly wouldn't be any problem using it to test it out during that period, just don't set and forget on long trips early on.

[Sean66]

NewVLT

Thanks. Much appreciated and will keep that in mind when on the long drive to Perth. Cheers.

[Carby650]

well all after trading in my much loved VY SS some 18 mnths ago and getting a "cough cough" Astra SRI, the wife has finally woken up to the fact that the Astra "cough" is too small. Especially when going away for a long weekend.
Anywho i've ben doing some research and would like others view on this.
SSV is $55,790 RRP whilst the SS is $48,290. now we want leather add $2,500 toal $50,790.
I am struggling to see the extra $5k in the SSV. Yes you get 19's and climate control but i can't see the value in the rest of the extras.
Anybody got thoughts on this?

cheers
Carby650

[RABSP]

well all after trading in my much loved VY SS some 18 mnths ago and getting a "cough cough" Astra SRI, the wife has finally woken up to the fact that the Astra "cough" is too small. Especially when going away for a long weekend.
Anywho i've ben doing some research and would like others view on this.
SSV is $55,790 RRP whilst the SS is $48,290. now we want leather add $2,500 toal $50,790.
I am struggling to see the extra $5k in the SSV. Yes you get 19's and climate control but i can't see the value in the rest of the extras.
Anybody got thoughts on this?

cheers
Carby650


I can put it in very simple terms for you, especially if you want extras on the car.

Quite a few years ago I bought a new VS Berlina, I had IRS LSD ABS and a few other bit on, mainly because I do not like leather and could not see the added value in a Calais.

Cost me $45K, this was back in 1994.

When I went to sell it 24 months later, it was just a Berlina, the fact that the only difference between it and a Calais was the Leather did not count for poo!!!!.


Since then I have had 3 Calais, I put 25mm sheep skin seat covers on and I am happy, so when I sell a Calais it is a Calais and the dealer cannot tell me I waisted my money on non standard features.

I never considered anything other than a Calais-V V8 Sportwagon.

In short, my point is ( Resale Value )

Hope this helps.

Accept no substitutes. Go for the V

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff327/rabsp/P1010750.jpg

[v8mumbo]

well all after trading in my much loved VY SS some 18 mnths ago and getting a "cough cough" Astra SRI, the wife has finally woken up to the fact that the Astra "cough" is too small. Especially when going away for a long weekend.
Anywho i've ben doing some research and would like others view on this.
SSV is $55,790 RRP whilst the SS is $48,290. now we want leather add $2,500 toal $50,790.
I am struggling to see the extra $5k in the SSV. Yes you get 19's and climate control but i can't see the value in the rest of the extras.
Anybody got thoughts on this?

cheers
Carby650


Have a good look a the centre console of the SS. It is so old school and very dated (compare it to the FG Falcon dash). And holden have cynically made the console it so you can't put in an aftermarket audio/navigation head unit. (I checked this with an installer).

At least with the SSV you can toss out the standard screen if you want to and install what ever you want in the double DIN space there.

Also the seats in the SSV are more comfortable than the SS.

As another poster said, adding leather to a base SS will not add anything to your re-sale.

I reckon the SSV is over-priced but if you afford an SSV get it, otherwise just get a base SS no leather and use your $2500 for a good quality set of sheepskin seat covers.

Be prepared to haggle with your dealer. If you have access to more than one dealer shop around for the best deal.

[Carby650]

cheers for the feedback guys but you haven't sold me. Spend an extra 5k to get an extra 2-3k on trading it in.
cheers
carby650

[Sean66]

Carby650

Leather sounds great and may add to the resale value. I have the SS seats and theres nothing wrong with them. Where I live, leather will make driving uncomfortable and sweaty. How much time do you spend driving?

I got the SS covers to go with the car. The neoprene looks good and feels good. Its your money...do what makes you happy, after all its your behind thats on the seat.

[VH-COM]

Wagon sales are doing just great :goodjob:
http://goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/RT/4F19CC52310856D0CA2574BB00080C61?OpenDocument


So far the news is good: For the month of August 2008, the first full month of sales, 1509 Sportwagons were sold - the highest for any single month since November 2004 and up 91 per cent on the equivalent month in 2007.

[Butscut]

Guys, finally picked up the wagon on Friday.....All I can say is that it makes my old VX II Berlina feel like a bowl of jelly to drive.
Took a few pics for those that haven't seen the 20's yet. only other mod to the std Calais was the chrome strips down the side ($258 installed) and the 3M black tint. What a great fathers day present :xmas:
http://i359.photobucket.com/albums/oo34/Butscut/ls1-1.jpg
http://i359.photobucket.com/albums/oo34/Butscut/ls1-2.jpg
http://i359.photobucket.com/albums/oo34/Butscut/ls1-3.jpg
http://i359.photobucket.com/albums/oo34/Butscut/ls1-4.jpg
http://i359.photobucket.com/albums/oo34/Butscut/ls1-5.jpg

[NewVLT]

Nice Butscut. It looks rather familiar, except for the twin pipes. :)
I'm definately going to have to see about some tint. How does the 3M gear go down over the little dotty edges of the rear windows ? Is it just one big air bubble or does it settle down pretty well ?

[Highway]

Looking good Butscut.

Did the dealer put the 20's on without any problems.

What sort of rating are on the tyres ?

Are you getting it lowered.

Mike

[GODSMACK]

Spotted a Blue Ve SS wagon this morning on the local highway, 1st time ive actually had a good look at one, and f**k me are they hot!!!

[old holden V8]

Love the color Butscut!

Tell me, do you find it "smaller" to drive, compared to the VX you had?

Cheers

Laurie
:)

[Butscut]

How does the 3M gear go down over the little dotty edges of the rear windows ? Is it just one big air bubble or does it settle down pretty well ?

Thanks VLT...They are quite similar I know but different states should mean they wont share the same streets ;-) Regarding the 3M tint I have been seriously impressed. I know what you mean about the big air bubble but I didn't have any of it, only lots of tiny bubble around each of the dimples that reflect the pattern of the glass underneath. Its as good as I have seen....you wouldn't be dissappointed.




Did the dealer put the 20's on without any problems.

What sort of rating are on the tyres ?

Are you getting it lowered.

Mike

Mike - 20's are a factory option on the std Calais (not the Calais V) The wheels were factory fitted at HSVi accross the road from the elizabeth plant, and I have a great HSV plackard in the engine bay for my hard earned $$ spent. The tyres are 97V's I think, also factory fitted. Re lowering, I will wait to see how the factory springs settle and then make my mind up. I have however been impressed by the ride quality on the 20s much better than I thought it would be.


Love the color Butscut!

Tell me, do you find it "smaller" to drive, compared to the VX you had?

Cheers

Laurie
:)

The only place that I have found the car smaller is in the garage, I seem to have found an extra foot of space in front of the car, and very welcomed it is to. On the road the car is nothing like the old VX wagon it feels completely different and nothing like a wagon. As stated in previous posts the boot is smaller than the VX wagon but hell, I could never fill that thing anyway. The size for my family is spot on.

[V8SSVWAGON]

sweet bruv....very neat F-day pressie...needs to be lowered a tad _de-avalanche it.

Looks like the LHS front panel chrome strip is a little off, could be the angle. I went with the chrome also...pretty simple to fit...really finishes it off dussnt it !
:goodjob:
Good luck with her/ let the mods begin

[bee444]

I finished putting a Mr Muffler F1 cat back on the wagon today, very happy to say the least, no drone fantastic note, still quiet in side and even more people looking at now!!!:):):)

[SARS]

Great to hear bee444, Mr Muffler system are all good :)

[Butscut]

sweet bruv....very neat F-day pressie...needs to be lowered a tad _de-avalanche it.

Looks like the LHS front panel chrome strip is a little off, could be the angle. I went with the chrome also...pretty simple to fit...really finishes it off dussnt it !
:goodjob:
Good luck with her/ let the mods begin

The chrome does a good job of breaking up the side of the car and looks great to boot. I had a close look side on at the LHS and its as true as one could expect. The problem is the front of the passenger door is set slightly back from the wing by about 1-2mm. therefore when you look front on it give the appearance that the trim is out of whack. I will have the GM guys look at it at the first service. Well spotted :goodjob:

[Canters]

Is anyone else experiencing slipages in delivery dates?

I ordered (Berlina Sportwagon) at the start of June and was told "late August and maybe going into the start of Spetember", but now I still have not got a firm delivery date.....

Not happy Jan...........

[david777]

When I went to order this week I was promised 6 to 8 weeks.

[Sean66]

Canters

Even before the wagon was released I couldnt get a firm date from Holden. I put my order in around early April this year and got delivery mid August. All up it was about less than 2 months from the official release that the car was delivered. Good luck its worth the wait.

Side note: Driving around town (still following run in instructions) fuel consumption is around the high 13's to mid 14lts/100km. Is anyone getting better figures city driving? Has anyone got any fuel figures for the open road?? Cheers.

[Canters]

When I went to order this week I was promised 6 to 8 weeks.

What model did you order??

[Highway]

Is anyone else experiencing slipages in delivery dates?

I ordered (Berlina Sportwagon) at the start of June and was told "late August and maybe going into the start of Spetember", but now I still have not got a firm delivery date.....

Not happy Jan...........

Don't know whether its true but months ago the rumour was that Holden were concentrating on producing the SS/SSV and Calais models first before the Berlina and the Omega versions.

The Calais I purchased took approx 6 weeks from the order date. ( 30/6 )
It arrived about 2 weeks earlier than anticipated.

Ask the dealer to provide a copy of the Holden Production Guide which will give you details on the Event Date,Production Date and Arrival Date etc.
If yours is at Event 32 Holden is about to start building and it should be at the dealer in approx 3 weeks.
If the dealer can provide a Vin and Engine No it will not be long before your car arrives.

All the best

Mike

[Butscut]

Canters

Side note: Driving around town (still following run in instructions) fuel consumption is around the high 13's to mid 14lts/100km. Is anyone getting better figures city driving? Has anyone got any fuel figures for the open road?? Cheers.

Run in instructions....thats the first time I've heard that one. The dealer didn't mention anything about that I by God have I given mine a flogging in the week since I got it !! That said, I am also getting woeful consumption around town same sort of figures 13-14l/100. On the highway this drop much closer to 10 but it does seem very thirsty around town. By the way I have the 195kw V6 not the V8 Calais

[NewVLT]

Side note: Driving around town (still following run in instructions) fuel consumption is around the high 13's to mid 14lts/100km. Is anyone getting better figures city driving? Has anyone got any fuel figures for the open road?? Cheers.

Don't know if you saw them Sean but I posted figures from my Brisbane trip a while back. 5700km's up on the car at the end of the trip.

Adelaide - Brisbane (via Cobar) - Adelaide....4200km's at 10.7 l/100km's
Brisbane - Adelaide (via Cobar) return only....2000km's at 10.4 l/100km's (no real difference in drving or number of overtakes on the way back so things must be freeing up a bit. Give it another 20K on the clock and we'll see what she does).

Included one or two umm...quickish runs, a lot of very "enthusiastic" overtaking (it just makes you want to do it, really it does officer), but most of the time spent on cruise at 113km/h with a pretty big load on board. It'd be interesting to hear what other lighter V8 models get with no load.

[Sean66]

Butscut........this being my very first Holden let alone V8, I have read the owners manual 2 times already..lol... and I am just following the run in instructions. Also not using cruise control for long periods till I hit 1500km mark. Perhaps I am being too careful?

NewVLT...many thanks for your info. :goodjob:
Bloody hell you have put in some K's already. I like the idea of 10's/100km. Makes driving to Perth more fun. Also did you find that the car felt more stable on the road with a bit of a load in the back?

Another question for those of you in the know (not me)....according the Holdens fuel consumption figures....why is it the automatic gets better milage than a manual? I always thought manuals were better on fuel use?

[Rick]

Butscut........this being my very first Holden let alone V8, I have read the owners manual 2 times already..lol... and I am just following the run in instructions. Also not using cruise control for long periods till I hit 1500km mark. Perhaps I am being too careful?

NewVLT...many thanks for your info. :goodjob:
Bloody hell you have put in some K's already. I like the idea of 10's/100km. Makes driving to Perth more fun. Also did you find that the car felt more stable on the road with a bit of a load in the back?

Another question for those of you in the know (not me)....according the Holdens fuel consumption figures....why is it the automatic gets better milage than a manual? I always thought manuals were better on fuel use?

Re your last question, 3 reasons at least:

* taller gearing in the auto (2.92 vs 3.45 diff ratios, although the trans ratios bring that back into line somewhat)

* very modern autos have much less slippage and earlier/more frequent lock-up than even say the current 4-speed Holden trans much less older ones

* the auto has the engine revving less 95% of the time than any normally driven manual, particularly with the auto's 6 speeds (again, compare to older autos - worst case is the 2-speed Powerslide oops Powerglide)

Basically revs = fuel usage. Try driving at a constant speed on level ground (say 70) in your manual and watching the instantaneous fuel display while you use 2/3/4/5/6 gears. You will be shocked.

Most Sportswagon reviews by the way say that the V8/auto is the driveline of choice, as is the Calais V the body of choice, particularly with the Light Urban interior, which looks 500% than the dark black interiors.

Rick

[NewVLT]

Butscut........this being my very first Holden let alone V8, I have read the owners manual 2 times already..lol... and I am just following the run in instructions. Also not using cruise control for long periods till I hit 1500km mark. Perhaps I am being too careful?

Everybody seems to have varying opinions on what to do for the first 1500km's. I just varied the speed as the book says with a lot of hilly, twisty, country driving off the cruise control and maybe had it up to 4000rpm three or four times in that period....but I drive like a girl and didn't want to break anything. :)


NewVLT...many thanks for your info. :goodjob:
Bloody hell you have put in some K's already. I like the idea of 10's/100km. Makes driving to Perth more fun. Also did you find that the car felt more stable on the road with a bit of a load in the back?

Unfortunately the next 5000km's will probably take me another year to do.

It felt solid as a rock on the road but I put the factory 18's back on for the trip. The 20's get a bit twitchy on SA's back roads (or main highways for that matter, which is more about the state of the roads here than about the lack of sidewall). Steady and stable but with enough feedback through the wheel and backside so you didn't fall asleep.

I didn't notice it so much before the trip when unloaded but it is giving me a bit of a kick up the bum on certain bumps when empty. When loaded it just absorbed everything. It was an absolute pleasure to do that trip in it.

[Sean66]

Rick

Many thanks for your explanation. As mentioned before Im new to this V8 world. The stuff that other bloggers are coming up with great. :goodjob:

NewVLT

...Im doing the same when it comes to the run in. Only another 500kms to go and I can really enjoy what the V8 has to offer....all within the law mind you.


Side note: This site is great. I would never have thought that I would be taking part in discussions about cars, especially a V8 and my own V8 to boot. You guys rock!