Holden Kingswood
| Company type | Automobile model series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | 1968 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Products | Full-size cars, utilities, panel vans |
The Holden Kingswood represents a full-size car series engineered and produced in Australia by Holden from the introduction of the HK series in 1968 until the conclusion of the WB series in 1985. Prior to 1968, Holden's lineup of full-sized family vehicles included models such as the Holden Standard, Holden Special, and Holden Premier. The HK range brought forth the entry-level Holden Belmont (which took over from the Standard), the Kingswood (succeeding the Special), and the upscale Holden Premier, all offered in sedan and station wagon configurations. The commercial segment featured body styles like the coupé utility, panel van, and starting in 1971, a robust Holden One Tonner cab chassis. Initially, the utility vehicles were marketed under both Belmont and Kingswood badges; however, after late 1974, the base commercial models dropped the Belmont designation, though it persisted on sedans and wagons until the HX series was phased out.
In mid-1968, Holden expanded its range with a two-door Holden Monaro coupé and a lengthened luxury Holden Brougham. From HK through HQ, Monaro variants shared luxury classification codes with either Kingswood or Premier models but did not bear those specific badges. For example, HQ-HJ Monaro LS and Monaro LS V8 corresponded to Premier codes, while GTS versions had distinct designations. The Brougham was replaced in 1971 by the Statesman, which was based on the HQ station wagon chassis. For comprehensive information on all HK–WB series vehicles, refer to: list of Holden vehicles by series.
The HX series launch in 1976 introduced a Kingswood panel van to the commercial lineup.
Globally, Holden models—including Kingswoods—were distributed in markets such as New Zealand, various Asian countries, and throughout the South Pacific under either Holden or Chevrolet branding. Following the discontinuation of Canadian-sourced Chevrolet Impala and Chevelle imports into South Africa during the late 1960s, Holden Kingswood/Premier and Brougham models were rebranded locally as Chevrolet Kommando and Chevrolet Constantia, respectively. Holden-style utility vehicles were marketed there under the name Chevrolet El Camino. Between 1974 and 1978, the one-tonne cab-chassis utility was sold as the Chevrolet El Toro.
Production of Kingswood passenger cars and panel vans ceased with the HZ series in 1980, succeeded by the smaller Holden Commodore, which had been introduced two years earlier. Nevertheless, the Kingswood nameplate persisted on utility vehicles within the WB series (1980–1985), which were sold alongside WB Statesman sedans, utilities, panel vans, and cab-chassis variants.
HK
The Kingswood sedan and wagon made their first appearance with the launch of the new HK series in January 1968 (commercial variants followed in March 1968), featuring a larger and heavier body compared to its predecessor, the HR series. While retaining locally produced six-cylinder engines, this series marked Holden’s introduction of its first V8 engine: a fully imported Chevrolet Small-Block engine. Later in 1968, Holden expanded its Australian full-size vehicle portfolio by introducing both the Monaro coupe and the luxury-oriented Brougham.
HT
Debuting in May 1969, the HT series incorporated locally manufactured Holden V8 engines: a and a . The 253 cubic inch V8 was offered across all models except for the Brougham, which exclusively featured the larger 308 cubic inch unit. The imported 307 V8 continued as an option until existing stocks were depleted; it was subsequently replaced by the 308. The advertising slogan for this period was 'Never Late, in a Three-Oh-Eight'.
The trio of six-cylinder engines remained unchanged from previous models; however, transmission choices expanded for V8-powered cars. Initially, vehicles equipped with the 253 V8 came with either a three-speed column-shift manual or a four-speed floor-mounted manual gearbox; meanwhile, those fitted with the 307 V8 were limited to a two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission. After phasing out the 307 engine, both 253 and 308 V8s were available with manual or automatic transmissions across most models—except for Brougham variants which consistently featured a 308 automatic. Toward the end of HT production, Holden introduced its domestically produced three-speed Tri-Matic automatic transmission on all models except Brougham sedans that retained their two-speed Powerglide.
HG
The HG series released in July 1970 represented a modest update and introduced the new Tri-Matic three-speed automatic transmission, which had first appeared towards the end of the HT model run. Although early versions suffered from reliability problems that earned it the nickname Traumatic, this transmission eventually became standard equipment except on the HG Monaro GTS350, which continued to use the Powerglide automatic.
Production of HG commercial models ran concurrently with HQ passenger cars until late 1971. These HG commercials received upgrades to HQ’s newer 173ci and 202ci six-cylinder engines but retained HG-specific transmissions—including cable kickdown six-cylinder units, V8 Tri-Matics, and V8 M21 Saginaw gearboxes—as well as V8 engines likely sourced from existing inventory. For Australian market vehicles, these HG commercials can be identified by an A prefix on both the chassis number and Safety Compliance Plate.
HQ
Introduced in 1971, the HQ series featured a comprehensive redesign, bringing in larger six-cylinder engines at 173 cubic inches (2.85 L) and 202 cubic inches (3.3 L), alongside Holden’s 253 cubic inch (4.2 L) and 308 cubic inch (5.0 L) V8s, as well as Chevrolet’s 350 cubic inch (5.7 L) V8. This marked Holden’s most substantial engineering advancement since the original 48-215, incorporating a perimeter frame, semi-monocoque body design, and becoming the first full-size Holden equipped with coil spring rear suspension. Engineered exclusively for right-hand drive markets, HQ exports sharply declined from 41,181 units in 1973 to just 7,440 by 1975, negatively affecting funding for future model development. Nevertheless, the HQ became Holden’s best-selling model, with a total of 485,650 units produced over its extended lifecycle.
Chief Engineer George Roberts sought to achieve a "Cadillac-like" ride quality for the HQ by designing front suspension that encouraged understeer to enhance safety. Marketing highlighted its "jet-smooth ride," an approach that attracted criticism but was maintained through subsequent HJ and HX updates. It was only with the HZ facelift in 1977 that suspension modifications significantly improved handling characteristics.
In mid-1972, Holden introduced the limited edition HQ Belmont SS sedan, drawing inspiration from Chevrolet’s Super Sport variants. The SS was distinguished by unique color options—Infra Red, Lettuce Alone, and Ultraviolet—along with vinyl striping and 'SS' decals supplied by 3M Australia. Engine choices included either the 253 or 308 V8 paired with a four-speed manual transmission and a Salisbury differential. Interior enhancements featured sport gauges, bucket seats with houndstooth or flax inserts, and a center console. Originally capped at 1,800 units, strong demand led to an additional production run of 1,300 vehicles.
Later in 1972, the HQ Kingswood Vacationer special edition sedan and wagon were launched offering well-equipped options at attractive prices—a formula that maintained popularity for many years. In 1974, Holden unveiled the Sandman—a sporty utility and panel van that incorporated Monaro-inspired elements such as sports instrumentation, steering wheel design, bucket seats, rally wheels, and engine options ranging from six-cylinder to V8 powerplants. Available extras included automatic transmission, power steering, and air conditioning. The Sandman’s signature vinyl decals contributed to its iconic status within late-1970s Australian car culture.
CKD assembly of the HQ commenced in Thailand in 1971 and continued for several years in Indonesia and the Philippines. A Mazda initiative aimed at producing HQ models from CKD kits in Japan reportedly did not advance beyond initial pilot production stages.
HJ
Introduced in 1974, the HJ series showcased significant changes to the front-end design, removing much of the "soft" appearance seen in the HQ models. The Belmont designation was discontinued for utilities and panel vans, which instead featured an "unbadged" trim level. V8 versions no longer carried distinct model codes; for instance, all Kingswoods used the WN69 code regardless of engine type. Engine sizes were now expressed in metric units, with the six-cylinder engine becoming standard equipment on Kingswood and higher trim levels. The six-cylinder remained the default powerplant for entry-level Belmonts and unbadged commercial vehicles. Front disc brakes were standard across all Kingswoods but were not included on Belmont models.
Notable special editions included the Kingswood Deluxe sedan (released in July 1975) and the Kingswood Vacationer II sedan and wagon (introduced in November 1975). These editions offered enhancements such as automatic transmissions, radial tires, carpeting, radios, and two-tone paint schemes.
A unique variation of some HJ Premiers was assembled by Mazda in Japan, fitted with Mazda's 13B rotary engine and marketed as the Mazda Roadpacer between 1975 and 1977. This heavy automobile was underpowered due to the rotary engine but compensated by numerous electrical features that further affected its performance.
HX
The 1976 HX series brought subtle exterior revisions, mainly involving updates to the grille and badges. Base utilities and panel vans retained the HJ grille design except for the Sandman model, which adopted the front styling of the HX Kingswood. Tighter government emissions standards necessitated significant engine adjustments, leading to reduced output and the discontinuation of the 2.84-litre six-cylinder engine. A Kingswood panel van was introduced to expand commercial vehicle options. The HX Sandman stood out with large 'Sandman' logos on its tailgate and distinctive side stripes. Front bucket seats became standard equipment on Kingswood models. Special editions during this period included the Kingswood 50th Anniversary sedan (November 1976) and a reissue of the Kingswood Deluxe sedan.
HZ
Launched in 1977, the HZ series incorporated minor exterior refinements and marked the debut of Holden's "Radial Tuned Suspension" (RTS) across all variants, greatly improving handling dynamics without sacrificing ride comfort. Modern Motor commended the HZ’s handling capabilities, notably comparing it favorably against the BMW 528i. The lower-tier Belmont model was discontinued, positioning the Kingswood as the entry-level option for sedans and wagons, alongside a slightly more premium Kingswood SL variant. Commercial vehicles—including ute, panel van, and cab chassis—remained unchanged and continued without badges. In 1978, equipment levels were upgraded to keep pace with enhancements made to Ford Falcon models. However, passenger car versions of the Kingswood were phased out after 1980 following the introduction of VB Commodore sedans and wagons.
The last HZ Sandman was exclusively offered with V8 engines, featuring a four-headlight grille design and an under-bumper front spoiler. According to a 1979 GMH price list, a basic HZ panel van was priced at A$6,076, with the Sandman package adding A$1,700 plus optional extras such as a 5.0-litre V8 engine and limited-slip differential. Fully equipped Sandman models could command prices exceeding 150% of the base vehicle cost. By late 1979, sales of Sandman models declined as interest among younger buyers diminished; many units were sold without their characteristic stripes or logos. The Sandman ute was discontinued before production of the van ceased around October 1979.
WB
The final Holden to bear the Kingswood nameplate was a WB series utility released in 1980. Originally, the WA and WB were intended to be completely new full-size models, but due to the 1973 fuel crisis and financial limitations, these plans were significantly reduced. The WB evolved into an extensive upgrade of the luxury Statesman line and a refreshed version of the HZ-series commercial vehicles, featuring redesigned grilles and lights along with an updated Holden "Blue" six-cylinder powerplant (with an optional 4.2-litre V8). The Kingswood designation was confined solely to utility variants, while panel vans were incorporated into the One Tonner range. Although the 5.0-litre V8 was no longer officially offered for performance models, some units were still produced. Passenger car variants had been phased out in favor of the Commodore lineup. Production of the WB series ceased in 1985 as Holden withdrew from local manufacturing of large luxury and commercial vehicles to concentrate on mid-sized cars such as the Camira and Commodore, as well as imported Isuzu commercial models.
WA
Following the HQ series and delays affecting the facelifted HJ, Holden intended to replace its second-generation offerings with a substantially redesigned WA series. Various concept designs, including a liftback style, have surfaced since the early 1990s. However, financial difficulties compounded by the 1973 fuel crisis—and the HQ’s exclusive right-hand drive production that limited profitable left-hand drive exports—resulted in the project's cancellation. Instead, GM adapted the 1977 Opel Rekord, re-engineered it, and launched it as the Commodore in 1978, equipped with Holden engines.
Exports
Early Holden vehicles were manufactured in New Zealand at GM’s Petone facility until 1967, after which assembly from complete knock down (CKD) kits took place at Trentham near Wellington. Models such as the Monaro were imported fully assembled from Australia. Beginning in the 1960s, Australian-built Holdens were exported to Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, with Kingswoods assembled locally in Trinidad and Tobago. From 1971 to 1974, HQ-series Holdens assembled in Australia were marketed in New Zealand under the "Chevrolet 350" nameplate, primarily distinguished by a larger US-sourced engine and Chevrolet badging, replacing earlier Canadian-sourced Chevrolet Impalas.
South Africa
Up until the late 1960s, models including the Special, Kingswood (starting from HK), Premier, and Monaro were sold under the Holden brand in South Africa. Following discontinuation of Canadian-sourced Chevrolet Impalas and Chevelles, GM introduced the Chevrolet Kommando and Chevrolet Constantia, which were based on HT, HG, and later HQ Kingswood and Premier models. These vehicles utilized Holden’s straight-six or V8 engines or Chevrolet’s six-cylinder units. For a time, HT and HG models carried both Holden and Chevrolet badges; Holden versions featured Australian-style front ends. Some Monaro coupes from this period have been re-imported into Australia by enthusiasts.
The Constantia model took its name from the Groot Constantia wine estate, while Kommando paid homage to Boer Commando units from the Anglo-Boer War era. The South African HQ was designated AQ and closely resembled New Zealand’s Chevrolet 350.
In 1971, after phasing out the Holden brand locally, the Holden utility was renamed Chevrolet El Camino. Between 1974 and 1978, the one-tonne utility was marketed as the Chevrolet El Torro. That same year saw the Holden Monaro rebranded as the Chevrolet SS in South Africa. Updates introduced in 1976 included Kommando models powered by straight-six engines; Constantia variants equipped with either a 250 six-cylinder or V8 engines; and a Caprice Classic featuring a 308 V8. The inline-six engine was refined for improved fuel efficiency amid challenges following the 1973 oil crisis. Additionally, a Kommando LS with automatic transmission and a new Constantia station wagon joined the lineup.
By 1979, Holden-based models were replaced by Chevrolet-badged Opel vehicles: Rekord, Commodore (similar to Holden’s VB Commodore), and Senator. It would not be until 2001 that a Holden-derived Chevrolet model returned to South Africa with the introduction of the Chevrolet Lumina.
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 reflects the character's humble lifestyle, with its cassette player delivering a blend of both famous and lesser-known country tracks that also serve as the show's musical backdrop.
The Australian comedy series Kingswood Country derived its title from the car used by its protagonist, Ted Bullpit, although this was eventually succeeded by a Holden Commodore.