Holden Caprice (WM)
| Company type | Product line |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | August 2006 |
| Defunct | October 2017 |
| Headquarters | Melbourne , Australia |
Area served | Australia, New Zealand, United States, Middle East, China, South Korea |
| Products | Full-size luxury sedans (WM and WN series) |
| Parent | Holden |
The WM and WN series mark the third and concluding generation of the Holden Caprice/Statesman lineup, a collection of full-size luxury sedans manufactured by Australian automaker Holden between August 2006 and October 2017. These vehicles were primarily marketed in Australia and New Zealand, with exports extending to regions such as the United States, Middle East, China, and South Korea. Their debut coincided with the launch of the smaller VE series Holden Commodore, both built on the "Zeta" architecture, unveiled on 16 July 2006 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The development of the WM Caprice and Statesman entailed an investment of A$190 million, forming part of a larger $1.03 billion program that included the VE Commodore. These models were designed to appeal to high-ranking Federal and State politicians, government officials, corporate executives, and discerning private customers domestically and internationally. In August 2010, the WM Series II was introduced, which discontinued the 'Statesman' nameplate, leaving only the Caprice in production. Subsequent updates led to the release of the WN in 2013 and its Series II iteration in 2015. Production ceased in October 2017 as Holden withdrew from the large luxury sedan market.
WM
Beginning in 2006, Holden’s WM series was available in two distinct variants:
- Statesman: Featured standard leather upholstery, woodgrain accents, a basic Blaupunkt audio system, dual-zone front climate control, a 4-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, halogen headlamps, and 17-inch alloy wheels. It was distinguished by a slatted grille at the front and a chrome-trimmed rear bumper surround. This model was powered by a 3.6-litre LY7 V6 engine.
- Caprice: Offered enhanced bolstered leather seats, rear entertainment with dual LCD screens and an integrated DVD player, rear tri-zone climate control, brushed aluminium trim elements, premium Bose sound system, an 8-way power front passenger seat, bi-xenon headlights equipped with washers, heated side mirrors, chrome door handles, 18-inch alloy wheels, and sports-tuned suspension. It featured a unique front bumper design and came standard with a 6.0-litre L98 V8 engine.
Both trims included leather-wrapped steering wheels, 8-way power driver seats, reversing sensors, fog lights, LED taillights, as well as Holden’s MP3/CD/radio infotainment system featuring a 6.5-inch color display, auxiliary input, and Bluetooth phone integration. Optional extras comprised GPS navigation systems, sunroofs, full-size spare wheels, and limited slip differentials. Both V6 and V8 engines were offered across trims; however, all models were equipped exclusively with automatic transmissions.
In the 2009 facelift, the Statesman’s LY7 V6 engine was replaced by the direct-injection LLT V6 unit; meanwhile, the Caprice received an upgrade to the L77 V8 featuring GM's Active Fuel Management technology for cylinder deactivation. Updated badges were added to signify these enhancements. Additionally, V6 models adopted the advanced 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission previously reserved for V8 variants.
From a design perspective, only the front windshield and doors of the Caprice shared components with the VE Holden Commodore; uniquely designed extended rear doors were introduced on the WM to facilitate easier access rather than reusing Commodore wagon doors.
Interior improvements highlighted sportier trim elements alongside genuine aluminium on the central dashboard. Rear passenger legroom saw an increase compared to earlier versions. The tri-zone climate control system carried over from the WL Caprice ensured precise temperature management throughout the cabin. The interior layout emphasized comfort and refinement through features such as a broad instrument binnacle with chrome-ringed gauges, an integrated center stack housing a high-resolution color screen for audio and climate controls divided into zones, all accented by satin chrome finishes.
WM Series II
In mid-2010, the WM model underwent an update to become the Series II. The 'Statesman' designation and its associated trim were discontinued, along with its distinctive wheels, styling details, and woodgrain interior accents. The Caprice lineup was then divided into two variants: a base version that took the place of the Statesman in terms of pricing and features, and a premium Caprice 'V' series. The Caprice V came equipped with exclusive alloy wheels, a standard sunroof, and rear seat entertainment systems, roughly aligning with the equipment level of the original WM Series 1 Caprice. Drivetrain choices were simplified; the base Caprice was powered by a 3.6L V6 engine (with an optional LPG variant), while the 6.0L V8 engine remained exclusive to the Caprice V.
The interior design largely retained the WM1 layout but incorporated Holden’s 'iQ' infotainment system featuring USB connectivity, improved Bluetooth capabilities for music streaming, satellite navigation complete with traffic updates, and a reversing camera. Exterior modifications were subtle, limited to updated wheel designs and a chrome boot garnish redesigned to accommodate the reversing camera; notably, the 'Caprice' badge was moved from the garnish to a separate emblem.
WN
The WN generation Caprice V, introduced in July 2013, brought substantial interior enhancements by adopting the dashboard, sports steering wheel, and corporate MyLink infotainment system from the VF generation Holden Calais. Rear entertainment screens were relocated to fold into the seat backs instead of being mounted on headrests, and additional auxiliary ports were added for connecting external video devices. Dual-zone climate control became standard equipment; however, tri-zone climate control and rear seat controls from the WM generation were removed. The exterior design remained largely consistent since 2006, with only minor updates such as larger 19-inch alloy wheels, new chrome door handles, and a redesigned rear antenna.
Safety and convenience technologies were significantly upgraded to include trailer stability control, rear cross traffic alert, backup camera, blind spot monitor, lane departure warning system, forward collision alert, an HUD, electric park brake, electric power-assisted steering, automatic parking, as well as keyless entry and ignition. A limited slip differential was made standard across all WN "V" models.
The flagship Caprice V offered two engine options: the carryover 6.0L V8 and an optional LPG-fueled 3.6L V6 available only between 2014 and 2015. The base non-V Caprice targeted fleet customers with solely the LPG 3.6L V6 engine, outfitted with older 18-inch wheels, a non-sport steering wheel, leather upholstery, standard audio equipment, but lacking rear entertainment systems, heated seats, HUD functionality, memory seat settings, lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and electric adjustment for the passenger seat. In 2015, Holden discontinued the base Caprice model and phased out the LPG V6 option throughout the range.
WN Series II
Released in September 2015, the final iteration of the WN Caprice Series II featured a simplified model range by removing the 3.6L LPG V6 option and offering only one trim powered by a single V8 engine. The former 6.0L L77 V8 was replaced by a detuned version of the 6.2L LS3 V8 sourced from the HSV Grange. Exterior revisions included new 19-inch alloy wheels as standard equipment, a rear lip spoiler added as standard fitment, and dual exhaust tips replacing the previous quad exhaust arrangement. Interior alterations were minimal, involving removal of rear seat cupholders and elimination of the 3.5 mm auxiliary audio input.
Drivetrain
At its launch, the WM Caprice was equipped with a 6.0L L98 V8 engine delivering , mated to the GM 6L80E six-speed automatic gearbox, also utilized in performance-oriented Commodore variants. The Statesman came standard with a , 3.6L Alloytec V6, which was offered as an option on the Caprice. The suspension setup provided a blend of ride comfort and moderate sporty firmness, enabling the L98 V8 model to achieve a 0- acceleration time slightly over six seconds.
With the WM MY09.5 update, the L98 was succeeded by the L77 V8, rated at , which incorporated Active Fuel Management (AFM) for cylinder deactivation and was compatible with bio-ethanol/E85 fuels. This revision also brought in Holden's 3.6L SIDI direct injection V6 paired with the same automatic transmission. In 2012, an LPG engine variant was introduced, offering 180kW and 320Nm through vapor injection technology, coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The final WN Series II model replaced the L77 V8 with a more powerful 6.2L LS3 V8 producing .
| Engine displacement and layout | Engine model | Power[1] | Torque | Transmission type | Fuel category | Fuel efficiency[2] | Production years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6 L (3,564 cc); V6 | High Output Alloytec (LY7) | 195 kW (261 hp; 265 PS) | 340 N⋅m (251 lb⋅ft) | 5-speed GM 5L40-E automatic | Petrol | 11.7 L/100 km (20.1 mpg‑US) | 2006–2009 |
| SIDI (LLT) | 210 kW (282 hp; 286 PS) | 350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) | 6-speed GM 6L50 transmission automatic | 10.3 L/100 km (22.8 mpg‑US) | 2009–2012 | ||
| 'SIDI' (GM High Feature engine#LFX) | '9.9 L/100 km (23.8 mpg‑US)' | '2012–2013' | |||||
| 'LPG' (GM High Feature engine#LWR) | '180 kW (241 hp; 245 PS)' | '320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft)' | '6-speed GM 6L50 transmission#GM 6L45 automatic' | 'Liquefied petroleum gas' | '12.1 L/100 km (19.4 mpg‑US)' | '2012–2015' | |
| 6.0 L (5,967 cc); V8[3]' | Generation 4 Alloy (GM LS engine#L98)' | 270 kW (362 hp; 367 PS)' | 530 N⋅m (391 lb⋅ft)' | 6-speed GM 6L80 transmission#GM 6L80-E automatic' | Petrol' | ' 14.4 L/100 km (16.3 mpg‑US)' | '2006–2008' |
| ' 13.0 L/100 km (18.1 mpg‑US)' | '2009-2009' | ||||||
| Generation 4 Alloy (AFM) (GM LS engine#L77)' | 260 kW (349 hp; 354 PS)' | 517 N⋅m (381 lb⋅ft)' | ' 12.6 L/100 km (18.7 mpg‑US)' | '2009–2010' | |||
| ' 12.3 L/100 km (19.1 mpg‑US)' | '2010–2013' | ||||||
| ' 11.7 L/100 km (20.1 mpg‑US)' | '2013-2015' | ||||||
| 6.2 L (6,162 cc); V8' | Generation 4 Alloy (GM LS engine#LS3)' | Template:Convert 304 kW hp PS 0 abbr=on' | ' rowspan = "1" Template:Convert 570 Nm lbft 0 abbr=on' | ' Template:Convert 12.9 L/100 km mpgus 1 abbr=on' | '2015–2017' | ||
Safety
The Statesman is equipped with Bosch Electronic Stability Control, traction control, ABS brakes, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS), and a tyre pressure monitoring system as standard features. Safety is further enhanced by front, side, and curtain airbags, contributing to the Caprice's higher safety rating relative to its primary competitor, the LTD. Development involved Holden's most extensive virtual crash simulation program, emphasizing realistic collision scenarios and occupant diversity. Safety standards comparable to top-tier luxury brands led to a reinforced body structure utilizing advanced high-strength steels. Multiple load path strategies for frontal, side, and rear collisions bolster the protection of the passenger cabin. The vehicle also incorporates a sophisticated multi-point airbag sensing system along with an adaptive restraint system featuring dual-stage front airbags, thorax side-impact airbags, curtain airbags, and active front seat head restraints as standard equipment. Crash energy is absorbed through optimized structural crush zones, aided by a steering column ride-down mechanism and a breakaway brake pedal.
E-Series (WM)
In 2007, Holden Special Vehicles introduced the E1-series Grange in Australia and New Zealand as a high-performance iteration of the Caprice. Departing from the Caprice’s L98 V8, the Grange was powered by a 6.0L LS2 V8 sourced from the Chevrolet Corvette C6, delivering peak output. It featured magnetic ride control suspension, 19-inch staggered wheels, and distinctive HSV-designed front bumper, rear spoiler, and diffuser elements. With a price tag of A$82,990—approximately A$13,000 more than the standard Caprice—the E1 Grange accelerated from to in 5.0 seconds.
Midway through 2008, production transitioned from the LS2 to the 6.2L LS3 V8 engine rated at peak power. The model retained its E1 designation until mid-2009 when HSV launched the E2 series featuring updated front and rear bumpers, chrome side mirrors, new alloy wheels, rectangular exhaust tips, daytime running lamps (DRLs) in the front lights, and a bi-modal exhaust system.
The 2010 E3 Grange coincided with Holden’s WM Series II Caprice update and incorporated the Holden iQ infotainment system alongside HSV’s Enhanced Driver Interface (EDI), which delivers real-time vehicle dynamics and performance information. The E3 also received an upgraded LS3 engine tune producing at 6000 rpm and torque at 4600 rpm—engine specifications shared with the flagship E3 HSV GTS model.
Gen-F (WN)
Launched in 2013 alongside Holden’s WN Caprice, the Gen-F series Grange maintained the drivetrain and exterior design of the prior E2 and E3 models but introduced new 20-inch staggered alloy wheels. Interior enhancements included a redesigned dashboard layout, rear seat entertainment system, MyLink infotainment interface, unique HSV-branded suede trim accents, additional gauges, paddle shifters, and the latest iteration of the HSV EDI system. The LS3 V8 engine was upgraded to produce 340 kW, matching that of the Gen-F HSV Senator.
The September 2015 Gen-F2 update paralleled Holden’s VF Series II Commodore refresh but left most aspects of the Grange unchanged apart from new alloy wheels and removal of some additional gauges. Notably absent was an upgrade to the supercharged 6.2L LSA V8 engine; instead, it continued using the older LS3 V8 shared with the more budget-friendly WN2 Caprice.
In October 2016, HSV announced that production of the Grange would cease, marking its end with a limited final edition run of 50 'SV' models featuring four-piston AP Racing brakes with black calipers, blacked-out trim and grille details, along with 20-inch Rapier gloss black forged alloy wheels.
Chevrolet Caprice (Middle East)
Between 2007 and 2017, the WM Caprice was distributed across Middle Eastern markets, including GCC nations like Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and the UAE, marketed under the Chevrolet name. The lineup included four trims that closely resembled their Australian counterparts but incorporated region-specific modifications:
- LS: Derived from the Holden Statesman, this base model featured halogen headlights and taillights, black plastic side mirrors and door handles, 17-inch wheels, and lacked fog lamps or chrome detailing. Inside, it came with cloth upholstery and a basic Blaupunkt audio system. This entry-level version was exclusive to the Middle Eastern market.
- LTZ: Offered upgrades such as fog lights, a 'Prestige' dashboard from the Statesman with woodgrain accents, a leather-covered steering wheel, 18-inch alloy wheels, and tri-zone climate control for rear passengers.
- SS: Equipped with projector-style headlights, LED taillights, brushed metal interior finishes, a Holden Caprice front bumper featuring fog lights, a boot lip spoiler, and an Impala badge replacing the Chevrolet emblem on the trunk.
- Royale: Included headlight washers, leather seating accompanied by a rear entertainment system, sunroof, reversing camera, premium Bose sound system, chrome slatted grille, and a distinctive Chevrolet hood ornament.
The engine options in the Middle East mirrored those in Australia except that the 3.6L V6 was discontinued following the WM Series II refresh in 2011. The Caprice in this region received all subsequent WN series enhancements until Australian production ceased. Notably, the Middle East represented the largest export destination for the Caprice beyond Australia.
Chevrolet Caprice PPV (United States)
From 2011 through 2017, WM and WN Caprices were exported to the United States as the Chevrolet Caprice PPV (Police Patrol Vehicle). Unlike earlier US-market Caprices, this model was exclusively available for law enforcement agencies and not sold to civilians as new vehicles. It initially launched with two simplified trims compared to their Australian versions:
- PPV 9C3 (Detective): Modeled after the Middle Eastern 'LS' base trim, it featured 18-inch steel wheels, amber front turn signals, black plastic vent guards and door handles, and seat-mounted seatbelts. Certain features were omitted such as glovebox locks, rear seat map pockets, and a fold-down middle rear seat. The iQ infotainment system was limited to AM/FM radio functionality. Its front bumper design was borrowed from the VE2 Commodore Omega variant; the rear bumper lacked chrome accents and diffuser elements.
- This trim was discontinued following the 2013 WN update.
- PPV 9C1 (Patrol): Shared many traits with the 9C3 but replaced the center console and armrest with an extensive mounting bracket for police equipment. Power window controls were relocated to the front doors; the handbrake was substituted by a foot-operated parking brake; and the gear shifter moved closer to the driver’s position. The automatic transmission dropped GM’s Tap Shift feature in favor of a selectable Pursuit Mode that enhanced throttle response and transmission shift timing at some cost to fuel efficiency. Flooring consisted of vinyl rather than carpet.
- The 2014 WN revision introduced a new dashboard and infotainment system sourced from the WN Holden Caprice. The floor-mounted shifter was replaced by a column shifter to free up cabin space for police gear. The ignition system retained a traditional key barrel instead of adopting keyless start.
The standard powertrain was a 6.0L L77 gasoline V8; notably, the larger 6.2L LS3 V8 was never made available. From 2012 onward, an optional 3.6L LFX V6 engine became accessible. Law enforcement evaluations in the US generally praised its performance with only minor critiques focused on conservative electronic stability control calibration.
With the 2014 WN update, production narrowed exclusively to the 9C1 trim. In 2015, a reversing camera sourced from the Holden Caprice was added as standard equipment. The final update in 2017 brought enhancements including an optional limited-slip differential paired with the V6 engine option, a vinyl rear bench seat equipped with a security panel, and an 18-inch full-size spare wheel.
Buick Park Avenue (China)
Starting in April 2007, the WM Caprice was introduced to the Chinese market under the Buick marque as the third generation of the Park Avenue, succeeding the WL Caprice-based Buick Royaum. Unlike other Caprice models, this variant was assembled domestically in China from complete knock-down kits shipped by Holden to Shanghai GM. Positioned as Buick’s premier luxury sedan, it was available in four trim levels: Flagship, Luxury, Elite, and Comfort.
Although it retained the fundamental specifications of the WM Caprice, local assembly allowed for notable enhancements, resulting in the most upscale Caprice edition. Interior refinements included a newly designed Buick dashboard equipped with an advanced infotainment system, an analog clock, woodgrain finishes accented by chrome, heated front seats featuring rotating headrests, redesigned door panels with integrated air vents and illuminated handles, an electric parking brake, and remote engine start capability.
Significant upgrades were made to the rear passenger compartment: electrically adjustable seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions; a foldable center console incorporating controls and cupholders; a roof-mounted DVD screen for entertainment purposes; rear sun visors; fold-down tables for passengers; auxiliary AV input ports; built-in window sunshades; and standard cigarette lighters and ashtrays. The tri-zone climate control system was repositioned to the central armrest. Additionally, a premium Harman Kardon audio system replaced the previous Bose and Blaupunkt units.
The exterior received updates such as new alloy wheel designs, Buick's signature 'waterfall' chrome grille, refreshed indicator lights, a redesigned front bumper, a prominent chrome 'Buick' badge on the bootlid, and a smaller 'shark-fin' style roof antenna. Initially, the model offered two engines: the Caprice’s 3.6-litre LY7 V6 and an exclusive 2.8-litre LP1 V6 for lower-tier trims. By 2010, the lineup was consolidated to a single 3.0-litre LF1 V6 powerplant—also found in the Australian VE Commodore Omega—with no V8 options available.
Production of this Buick Park Avenue ceased in October 2012 without introducing a WN series update or a direct replacement.
Daewoo Veritas (South Korea)
In 2008, Holden exported Caprices to South Korea under the Daewoo brand as the Veritas model, following the unveiling of the 2007 Daewoo L4X concept car. The Veritas bore strong resemblance to the Middle Eastern Chevrolet Caprice Royale, including a similar grille design and a Daewoo hood emblem. Its rear cabin design was inspired by the Buick Park Avenue, featuring electrically adjustable rear seats with heating and massage functions, a flip-down center console with seat controls, and a roof-mounted DVD screen for rear-seat entertainment. Distinct features exclusive to the Veritas included an internal air purification system, power-folding side mirrors, and additional navigation and infotainment controls positioned near the gear shifter. It was powered exclusively by the 3.6-litre LFX V6 engine, which was upgraded in 2010 to the direct-injection LLT variant.
The Daewoo Veritas was discontinued in 2011 following the termination of Daewoo operations within South Korea.
Bitter Vero (Germany)
In 2008, German niche automaker Bitter introduced the Vero—a customized WM Caprice—at the Geneva Motor Show. This model was equipped with a 6.0L L98 V8 engine and featured bespoke brown leather upholstery, heated front seats, distinctive B-shaped exhaust tips, new alloy wheels, along with a redesigned front bumper and grille complemented by a droopsnoot-style bonnet.
Only ten units were manufactured and imported directly from Holden through Erich Bitter’s association with former Holden managing director Peter Hanenberger. Priced at €121,975 in Germany, production of the Vero ended in 2012.