Holden Belmont
| Company type | Car model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Holden Special |
| Founded | 1968 |
| Founder | Holden (General Motors subsidiary) |
| Defunct | 1985 |
| Headquarters | Australia , Australia |
Area served | Australia, New Zealand, parts of Asia, South Pacific, South Africa |
| Products | Full-size cars, utilities, panel vans |
| Parent | General Motors |
The Holden Kingswood is a full-size car produced in Australia by Holden, a subsidiary of General Motors, spanning from the launch of the HK series in 1968 until the conclusion of the WB series in 1985. Prior to 1968, Holden's full-size lineup consisted of the Holden Standard, Holden Special, and Holden Premier. The HK series brought forth three main variants: the entry-level Holden Belmont (which succeeded the Standard), the mid-range Kingswood (taking over from the Special), and the upscale Holden Premier. These were available as both sedans and station wagons. The commercial range included a 2-door coupe utility, a 3-door panel van, and, starting in 1971, a robust Holden One Tonner cab chassis. Initially, both Belmont and Kingswood names were used for utilities; however, after the HQ series in late 1974, the Belmont badge was discontinued on commercial models, with base versions simply branded as "Holden" (though Belmont continued on sedans and wagons until the HX series ended).
In mid-1968, Holden expanded its full-size offerings with the introduction of the two-door Holden Monaro coupé and the extended-length luxury Holden Brougham. From HK through HQ, Monaro variants shared luxury classification codes with Kingswood or Premier but did not carry those specific badges. Various Monaro GTS versions featured their own unique luxury codes. The Brougham was replaced in 1971 by the Statesman, which utilized the HQ station wagon platform. For a comprehensive overview of HK–WB series Holden models, see: list of Holden vehicles by series.
The HX series, released in mid-1976, marked the debut of a Kingswood panel van variant.
Beyond Australia, Holden vehicles—including Kingswoods—were marketed in New Zealand, parts of Asia, and across the South Pacific under either Holden or Chevrolet branding.
In South Africa, following the discontinuation of Canadian Chevrolet imports in the late 1960s, Holden Kingswood/Premier and Brougham models were rebadged as Chevrolet Kommando and Chevrolet Constantia, respectively. Holden-style utilities were sold under the name Chevrolet El Camino, with the one-ton cab-chassis version marketed as Chevrolet El Toro between 1974 and 1978.
Production of Kingswood passenger cars and panel vans ceased with the HZ series in 1980, supplanted by the more compact Holden Commodore. Nonetheless, the Kingswood name persisted on utility vehicles within the WB series (1980–1985), alongside WB Statesman and other commercial Holdens.
HK
The Kingswood sedan and wagon debuted with the new HK series in January 1968, with commercial variants arriving in March. Sporting a completely redesigned, larger body compared to the previous HR series, this series introduced Holden’s first V8 engine—a fully imported Chevrolet Small-Block engine. The existing locally produced six-cylinder engines remained unchanged. Midway through 1968, Holden broadened its full-size Australian range by adding the Monaro coupé and Brougham luxury sedan.
HT
The HT series launched in May 1969 brought locally manufactured V8 engines in both 253 and 308 cubic inch capacities. The 253 engine was available across all models except for the Brougham, which exclusively featured the 308. The imported 307 V8 continued as an option until inventory was exhausted. The advertising slogan at this time was 'Never Late, in a Three-Oh-Eight'.
Six-cylinder engines from the HK series carried over without modification. Transmission options for V8 models were expanded: initially, the 253 V8 was offered only with three-speed manual transmissions on a column shift or four-speed manuals on a floor shift; meanwhile, the 307 V8 came solely paired with a two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission. After supplies of the 307 ran out, customers could select either the 253 or 308 V8 engines equipped with any manual or automatic transmission except for Brougham models which retained their exclusive pairing of a 308 V8 with an automatic transmission. Toward the end of HT production, Holden introduced its domestically produced three-speed Tri-Matic automatic transmission for all but Brougham models, which continued using the two-speed Powerglide.
HG
The HG series released in July 1970 introduced subtle updates and debuted the new Tri-Matic three-speed automatic transmission, initially launched in late HT models. Although initially well-received, the Tri-Matic transmissions encountered durability problems, earning the nickname Traumatic. The HG Monaro GTS350 remained unique for offering the Powerglide automatic transmission as an option.
Commercial versions of the HG continued production alongside HQ passenger cars until late 1971. These commercial vehicles were upgraded with HQ-spec inline six-cylinder and V8 engines but retained HG transmissions, including cable kickdown six-cylinder and V8 Tri-Matic gearboxes, utilizing existing V8 engine stocks. The HG commercials can be identified by an "A" prefix on their chassis numbers and Safety Compliance Plates for Australian market sales.
HQ
Introduced in 1971, the HQ series marked a complete redesign featuring larger six-cylinder engines of 173 cubic inches (2.85 L) and 202 cubic inches (3.3 L), alongside Holden’s 253 cubic inch (4.2 L), 308 cubic inch (5.0 L), and Chevrolet’s 350 cubic inch (5.7 L) V8 powerplants. This represented Holden’s most significant engineering overhaul since the original 48-215, incorporating a perimeter frame, semi-monocoque body structure, and becoming the first full-size Holden to utilize coil spring rear suspension. To reduce manufacturing costs, the HQ was designed exclusively for right-hand drive markets, which limited export potential and contributed to a drop in export numbers from 41,181 units in 1973 to just 7,440 in 1975. Nevertheless, the HQ became Holden’s highest-selling model with a total of 485,650 units produced over its extended run.
Chief Engineer George Roberts aimed to deliver a ride quality comparable to that of a Cadillac by designing the front suspension to encourage understeer for enhanced safety. The advertising campaign highlighted its "jet-smooth ride," although some critics questioned this suspension tuning until improvements were made with the HZ facelift in 1977.
In mid-1972, Holden introduced the limited-edition HQ Belmont SS sedan, drawing inspiration from Chevrolet’s Super Sport models. The SS ('XV2' option) was distinguished by unique paint colors—Infra Red, Lettuce Alone, and Ultraviolet—vinyl striping, 'SS' decals produced by 3M Australia, and engine choices of either a 253 or 308 V8 paired with a four-speed manual transmission and a Salisbury 10-bolt differential. Noteworthy features included Pontiac-style Rallye wheels, a sporty gauge cluster, bucket seats with houndstooth or flax fabric inserts, floor-mounted shifter, and center console. Initially capped at 1,800 units due to limited availability of some components, strong market demand extended production by an additional 1,300 vehicles.
Later in 1972, the Kingswood Vacationer special edition was launched as both sedan and wagon variants offering a value-packed option that gained popularity and was reintroduced across various models over the next twenty years. In 1974, Holden released the Sandman—a sporty utility and panel van version featuring Monaro-inspired instruments, sport steering wheel, bucket seats, rally wheels, and engine options ranging from six-cylinder to V8s. Available extras included automatic transmission, power steering, and air conditioning. Recognized by distinctive vinyl decals, Sandmans became iconic during the late 1970s as "shaggin' wagons."
CKD assembly of the HQ commenced in Thailand in 1971 and continued for several years in Indonesia and the Philippines. A Mazda initiative in Japan aimed at assembling HQ models from CKD kits reportedly did not advance beyond initial pilot production stages.
HJ
Launched in 1974, the HJ series introduced significant changes to the front-end design, moving away from the softer appearance of the HQ models. The Belmont designation was discontinued for utility and panel van variants, which instead featured an unbadged trim level. Additionally, the HJ series unified model codes for V8 versions; all Kingswoods carried the same code—WN69—regardless of engine choice. Engine sizes were now expressed in metric units, with the six-cylinder becoming standard equipment on Kingswood and higher trims, while the 3.3-litre six remained standard for entry-level Belmonts and unbadged commercial vehicles. Front disc brakes were standard on Kingswoods but not included on Belmonts.
Limited editions included the Kingswood Deluxe sedan released in July 1975 and the Kingswood Vacationer II sedan and wagon introduced in November 1975. These models came equipped with automatic transmissions, radial tyres, floor carpeting, radios, and offered two-tone paint schemes.
A notable variation was the HJ Premier assembled by Mazda in Japan, fitted with Mazda’s rotary engine and marketed as the Mazda Roadpacer between 1975 and 1977. This heavy car suffered from underwhelming performance due to its rotary powerplant but featured numerous electrical amenities that further affected its overall efficiency.
HX
The HX series, arriving in 1976, brought subtle updates to exterior styling including a refreshed grille and new badges; base utilities and panel vans retained the previous HJ grille except for Sandman models which adopted HX Kingswood fronts. Stricter government emissions standards required Holden to revise engine configurations, leading to decreased power output and discontinuing the 2.84-litre inline-six engine. The HX lineup expanded commercial options by adding a Kingswood panel van. The HX Sandman stood out with a distinctive tailgate emblem and side striping. Front bucket seats became standard equipment on Kingswoods. Special editions featured the Kingswood 50th Anniversary sedan launched in November 1976 and a revival of the Kingswood Deluxe sedan.
HZ
Introduced in 1977, the HZ series featured minor cosmetic revisions alongside Holden's introduction of "Radial Tuned Suspension" (RTS) across all variants, greatly improving handling dynamics without compromising ride comfort. Modern Motor praised the HZ’s cornering capabilities over competitors like the BMW 528i, emphasizing its superior stability through bends. The entry-level Belmont model was discontinued, positioning the Kingswood as the base offering for sedans and wagons, with a slightly more refined Kingswood SL added to the range. Commercial variants—including ute, panel van, and cab chassis—remained unchanged with continued use of unbadged specifications. Equipment levels were enhanced in 1978 to better rival the Ford Falcon lineup. However, after launching the VB Commodore in November 1978, passenger Kingswoods were gradually phased out by 1980, supplanted by the smaller Commodore.
The last HZ Sandman was exclusively equipped with V8 engines and featured a four-headlight grille along with a front spoiler. As of January 1979, a basic HZ panel van was priced at A$6,076; adding the Sandman package increased costs by A$1,700 plus optional extras such as a 5.0-litre V8 engine and limited slip differential—potentially raising prices by more than 150%. By late 1979, diminishing interest among younger buyers led to sales declines for Sandman models, prompting removal of their characteristic stripes and logos. Production of the Sandman ute ceased before that of the van, which ended approximately in October 1979.
WB
The Kingswood emblem made its final appearance on a WB series utility launched in 1980. Originally conceived as entirely new full-size vehicles, the WA and WB initiatives were scaled down in response to the 1973 energy crisis and budget limitations. The WB evolved into a significant enhancement for the luxury Statesman range and served as a facelift for HZ-series commercial vehicles, featuring redesigned lights, grilles, and an upgraded Holden "Blue" six-cylinder engine, with an optional 4.2-litre V8. The Kingswood was offered exclusively as a utility model, while panel vans were added to the One Tonner range. Though the 5.0-litre V8 was no longer officially listed, some units were still produced. Passenger car versions of the Kingswood were discontinued as the Commodore absorbed that market segment. Production of the WB concluded in 1985 when Holden ended local manufacturing of large luxury and commercial vehicles to concentrate on mid-sized cars such as the Camira and Commodore, alongside imported Isuzu commercial models.
WA
After the HQ series and delays affecting the facelifted HJ, Holden intended to replace the second generation with a substantially redesigned WA series. Early design concepts included a liftback variant from the early 1990s. However, financial difficulties compounded by the 1973 fuel crisis—and restrictions limiting HQ production to right-hand drive models that eliminated left-hand drive export opportunities—resulted in the project's cancellation. Instead, General Motors re-engineered the 1977 Opel Rekord Series E and introduced it as the Commodore in 1978, equipped with Holden powertrains.
Exports
Initial Holden production in New Zealand took place at GM’s Petone facility until 1967, after which assembly from complete knockdown (CKD) kits occurred at Trentham near Wellington. Fully assembled models such as the Monaro were imported directly from Australia. From the 1960s onward, Australian-made Holdens were exported to Southeast Asia and Caribbean markets, with Kingswoods assembled locally in Trinidad and Tobago. Between 1971 and 1974, HQ-series Holdens assembled in Australia were sold in New Zealand under the "Chevrolet 350" nameplate, distinguished primarily by a larger US-manufactured engine and Chevrolet branding—replacing Canadian-sourced Chevrolet Impalas last available in 1969.
ZA South Africa (Kommando)
Up until the late 1960s, vehicles including Special, Kingswood (starting from HK), Premier, and Monaro were marketed as Holdens within South Africa. Following the discontinuation of Canadian Chevrolet Impala and Chevelle imports, Holden-based models branded as Chevrolet Kommando and Chevrolet Constantia were introduced; these derived from HT, HG, and HQ Kingswood and Premier variants. Powertrains included Holden straight-six engines, V8s, or later Chevrolet six-cylinder units. Some HT and HG models bore both Holden and Chevrolet badges simultaneously. Monaro coupes were also sold locally under this scheme, with some later re-imported to Australia by collectors.
The Constantia name paid homage to the esteemed Groot Constantia wine estate, while Kommando referenced Boer Commando forces from the Anglo-Boer War era. South Africa’s HQ model (designated AQ) closely mirrored New Zealand’s Chevrolet 350.
In 1971, after dropping the Holden brand domestically, the Holden utility was rebranded as Chevrolet El Camino. From 1974 through 1978, the one-ton utility was marketed as Chevrolet El Torro. Starting in 1971, the Holden Monaro was sold locally under the Chevrolet SS badge. By late 1975 for the 1976 model year update, offerings included Kommando with a straight-six engine; Constantia with both a 250 cubic inch six and V8 options; plus a Caprice Classic featuring a 308 V8. The inline-six engine was modified to enhance fuel efficiency; nonetheless, sales declined following the 1973 oil crisis. Additionally, a better-equipped Kommando LS with automatic transmission was launched. The Constantia station wagon made its debut in 1976.
By 1979, Holden-derived models were replaced by Chevrolet-branded versions of Opel vehicles—the Rekord, Commodore (comparable to Holden’s VB Commodore), and Senator. It was not until 2001 that a Chevrolet model sourced from Holden—the Lumina—returned to South African showrooms.
In popular culture
A 1971 first-generation Holden Kingswood sedan is featured in the New Zealand television series The Brokenwood Mysteries, where it is driven by lead actor Neill Rea portraying Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Shepherd. The vehicle represents the character's simple mode of transport, with its cassette player delivering Shepherd's favorite country music, which also serves as the show's musical backdrop.
The Australian comedy series Kingswood Country took its name from the car used by the main character, Ted Bullpit, although the vehicle was eventually substituted with a Holden Commodore.