Holden Caprice (VQ)
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1856 in Australia |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Products | Automobiles, including Holden Caprice (VQ) and Statesman (VQ) |
The Holden Caprice (VQ) and Holden Statesman (VQ) represented Holden's top-tier luxury sedans produced between 1990 and 1994, marking the inaugural Statesman version built on the Commodore chassis. These models introduced a completely redesigned rear end featuring independent rear suspension, positioning them as direct competitors to Ford Australia's Fairlane and LTD offerings.
The VQ Statesman was utilized as official transportation for Australian government officials, with some units adapted into hearses and limousines. The initial Series I debuted in March 1990, followed by the Series II in December 1991, and a further revision released in late 1993.
History
Following the discontinuation of the WB Statesman in 1984, Holden exited the long-wheelbase luxury segment, leaving Ford to dominate until the VQ's arrival six years later. Unlike Ford’s Fairlane, Holden emphasized mechanical refinement and passenger comfort over exterior styling in the VQ, deferring planned design enhancements to meet production schedules.
Some reviewers observed that the VQ closely resembled an upscale Commodore, which led Holden to make considerable investments in distinctive body panels for its successor, the VR Statesman.
Initially, an analogue clock was intended to replace the climate control interface; however, trends from the late 1980s favored digital clocks. Consequently, Holden installed a digital clock in the headliner—mirroring Rolls-Royce’s Silver Spirit design—while maintaining climate controls beneath the audio system.
Cosmetic changes
The Statesman featured unique body panels that set it apart from the Commodore. Constructed on the extended wheelbase of the station wagon variant, it was larger than the standard Commodore sedan and offered enhanced rear legroom. The C-pillar was redesigned with glass inserts to create a wrap-around effect for the rear window. Strengthened pillars improved structural rigidity and contributed to a more substantial door closure feel.
Although exterior lighting components were shared with the Commodore, a prominent chrome grille was added at the front, along with decorative trim between the tail lights.
Statesman
The VQ Statesman Series I entered the market at A$39,950.
- Included as standard:
- 15-inch steel wheels
- 5.0 L V8 engine
- 4-speed automatic gearbox
- 6-speaker audio system
- Security alarm with engine immobilizer
- Central locking featuring keyless entry and remote boot release
- Climate-controlled air conditioning
- Cruise control system
- Independent rear suspension setup
- Power Pack: power windows front and rear, power antenna, power-adjustable mirrors
- Power-assisted steering
- Trip computer functionality
- Velour upholstery
- Available options:
- HSV-tuned engine upgrade
- Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
- Dealer-installed electric sunroof
Caprice
Starting at A$56,894, the VQ Caprice Series I incorporated additional features beyond those of the Statesman:
- Standard enhancements:
- 15-inch alloy wheels
- 14-speaker sound system
- Chrome and woodgrain interior trim accents
- Fog lamps
- Rear seat stereo controls
- Rear vanity mirrors
- Optional extras:
- Leather seating surfaces
- Dealer-installed electric sunroof
Series II (1991–1993)
The VQ marked Holden’s first model officially designated as Series II.
While Series I was based on the VN Commodore platform, Series II transitioned to the VP Commodore architecture, introducing a fully overhauled electrical system with a centralized body control module.
Updates in Series II included a discreet body kit, refreshed interior trims, side mirrors painted to match body color, and front guard indicator repeaters.
Statesman
The VQ Statesman Series II was introduced at a starting price of A$42,863, incorporating improvements over the Series I such as 15-inch alloy wheels, speed-sensitive power steering, and an additional glovebox on the driver's side. Optional features available included anti-lock braking systems and a V6 powertrain.
Caprice
The VQ Caprice Series II, with a base price of A$60,352, came equipped with several standard upgrades compared to the Series I model. These included anti-lock brakes, electrically adjustable front seats, speed-sensitive power steering, and a 10-disc CD changer.
1993 update
Shortly before production ceased in late 1993, the VQ underwent subtle visual refinements while maintaining the Series II label. These updates comprised a grille painted to match the body color and a rear boot spoiler.
HSV variations
Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) developed high-performance variants of the VQ Statesman and Caprice models: namely the HSV Statesman 5000i, SV90, and SV93. The SV90 was offered in maroon, the SV93 featured a white exterior over champagne trim, and the 5000i appeared in anthracite. Both the SV90 and SV93 were powered by an HSV-tuned engine producing 180 kW, whereas the 5000i delivered an enhanced output of 200 kW.