Holden HZ
| Company type | Automobile model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | October 1977 |
| Defunct | April 1980 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia, New Zealand |
| Products | Full-size cars, utes, panel vans, cab chassis |
Holden HZ represents a full-size vehicle manufactured in Australia by Holden from October 1977 until April 1980, with assembly also taking place in New Zealand. This model was available in a range of trim levels and body configurations.
Characteristics
Building on the HX series, the HZ incorporated subtle exterior revisions and introduced "Radial Tuned Suspension" (RTS) throughout the entire lineup, which notably enhanced handling capabilities while maintaining ride comfort. The publication Modern Motor characterized it as "a great handler spoiled by the car," contrasting it with the BMW 528i, described as "a great car spoiled by the handling." The base Belmont trim was removed from the range, positioning the Kingswood SL as the entry-level luxury choice for both sedans and wagons; a more basic Kingswood variant was offered as a delete option within the Kingswood SL.
In response to advancements in the Ford Falcon series, equipment levels were upgraded in 1978. Nevertheless, the entire W-size Holden range was gradually discontinued following the introduction of the VB Commodore in November 1978. Post-1980, W-size Holdens were succeeded by the smaller Commodore models. The Kingswood trim persisted on the WB Holden utility until 1984; however, with the conclusion of HZ production came the end of Holden Premier, GTS, and Sandman variants. Overall, production of the HZ reached a total of 154,155 units.
Model range
The Holden HZ was presented in four sedan and three station wagon variants, marketed as follows:
- Holden Kingswood Sedan
- Holden Kingswood Wagon
- Holden Kingswood SL Sedan
- Holden Kingswood SL Wagon
- Holden Premier Sedan
- Holden Premier Wagon
- Holden GTS
Additionally, it was offered in two ute, two panel van, and one cab chassis models:
- Holden Ute
- Holden Kingswood Ute
- Holden Van
- Holden Kingswood Van
- Holden One Tonner (cab chassis)
There were two special packages based on commercial vehicle platforms:
- Holden Sandman Ute and Van featuring option codes XX7 (passenger tyres) or XU3 (load-rated tyres)
- Ambulance option BO6, available on both cab chassis and panel van
Sandman Ute and Van
The last iteration of the HZ Sandman came equipped solely with V8 engines, showcased a four-headlight grille design, and included a front spoiler beneath the bumper. According to a GMH price list from January 1979, a standard HZ panel van was priced at A$6,076, with the Sandman package adding an additional A$1,700. Optional enhancements included a 5.0-litre V8 engine and a limited slip differential. When fully optioned, the Sandman’s price could exceed 150% of the base model’s cost. By late 1979, sales declined as its popularity waned within Australian youth culture; many units were sold without distinctive stripes or tailgate branding. Production of the Sandman ute ceased before that of the van, which ended around October 1979. Later models featured alloy wheels similar to those fitted on the HZ Statesman SL/E as standard equipment.