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Holden Statesman

From Alfawiki
Holden Caprice
Company typeCar model
IndustryAutomotive
Founded1990
DefunctOctober 2017
Headquarters
Australia
,
Australia
ProductsFull-size luxury car

The Holden Caprice is a full-size car manufactured by Holden in Australia from 1990 until October 2017. Launched concurrently in 1990, the comparable Holden Statesman served as a more affordable alternative and was discontinued in September 2010. Prior to this, from 1971 to 1985, long-wheelbase sedans were sold under the Statesman brand.

Both the Statesman and Caprice represent extended wheelbase versions of the Commodore and, starting in 2006, were GM’s largest rear-wheel drive sedans. These models were marketed globally under different names such as the Buick Royaum, Daewoo Statesman, and Chevrolet Caprice. Additionally, they served as the foundation for the Chinese-built Buick Park Avenue and the German re-bodied Bitter Vero.

The key difference between the Statesman and Caprice is found in their levels of equipment. Typically, Caprices are equipped with V8 engines rather than V6s, along with exclusive interior and exterior design elements such as distinctive grille inserts. From the 2003 WK series onwards, Caprices also featured sportier suspension options.

In the Australian market, the Statesman and Caprice traditionally competed against the Ford Fairlane and its luxury counterpart, the LTD, respectively. After Ford ceased production of these models in 2007, Holden’s main rival in this segment was the Chrysler 300C, until the arrival of the Hyundai Genesis in 2015. Holden declared in 2014 that production of the Caprice in Australia would conclude in 2017.

Etymology

The term "caprice" refers to an impulsive or unpredictable change, or a fleeting romantic inclination.

Statesman (HQ–WB; 1971–1984)

Before introducing the Holden Statesman and Caprice models in 1990, long-wheelbase sedans were sold under the distinct Statesman marque, which did not carry "Holden" branding.[1][2] These vehicles were retailed through General Motors-Holden outlets and were derived from Holden’s standard range (Belmont, Kingswood, Monaro, Premier), but offered enhanced luxury and an extended wheelbase shared with Holden Wagon, Utility, and Panel Van models.[3] The inaugural model launched in 1971 was the HQ series Statesman, which replaced the brief-lived Holden Brougham.[4] Although designed specifically for Australia, the front styling of the Statesman Caprice bore resemblance to the 1971 North American Chevrolet Caprice.

Later iterations including the HJ, HX, and HZ updated the original HQ body style,[5] culminating in the final iteration — the WB series — which introduced a new six-window glasshouse design.[6] The WB series represented a major redesign with only the front doors and bonnet retained from the HZ model.[7] Despite these enhancements, WB sales remained sluggish until production ended in 1984, after which sales experienced a sharp increase.[8] At that time, Holden decided to withdraw permanently from the large car market segment.

VQ

In March 1990, Holden reintroduced the Statesman and Caprice names after a six-year hiatus since the WB Statesman, responding to the Australian market's need for luxury sedans with extended wheelbases. The VQ series utilized the elongated chassis derived from the VN Commodore station wagon, which itself was an enlarged and modified variant of the Opel Omega A. When compared to the Commodore sedan, the VQ extended the length by , making it longer than the VN wagon by .

To distinguish the Statesman from the Commodore, Holden implemented a formal grille design, a unique glasshouse profile, and repositioned the rear license plate onto the bumper, while sharing door panels and headlights with the Commodore wagon. Both Statesman and Caprice came equipped with independent rear suspension—a feature that was introduced on premium VP Commodores a year later. The 1991 release of the VQ Series II brought anti-lock brakes as standard equipment on the Caprice and as an option on the Statesman. Additionally, this series offered a 3.8-litre 3800 V6 engine option for Statesman models, while retaining the 5.0-litre V8 as standard across all variants. Both powertrains were mated to a four-speed THM700R4 automatic gearbox.

Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) developed performance-enhanced editions of the VQ Statesman and Caprice, including models such as the HSV Statesman 5000i, SV90, and SV93, which featured upgraded styling and increased power output.

VR

The VR series debuted in March 1994, aligning closely with updates made to the standard VR Commodore, including engineering refinements and refreshed body panels. Notable improvements comprised a new electronically managed GM 4L60-E automatic transmission and an upgraded Buick 3.8-litre V6 engine that incorporated rolling-element bearings in its valve rocker arms to raise compression ratios. This revised V6 engine became standard equipment on the Statesman and optional on the Caprice, delivering enhanced power output alongside reduced noise, vibration, and harshness levels. Both vehicles introduced a driver's airbag as standard safety equipment.

Holden also standardized model nomenclature for Statesman and Caprice to mirror the two-letter code system used in Commodore VR and VS series.

VS

The VS iteration was launched in April 1995 featuring an updated Ecotec Buick V6 engine consistent with American market revisions, resulting in a 13% power increase (+). This engine was paired with an improved GM 4L60-E automatic transmission that offered better throttle response and smoother gear changes. Subsequent Series II and III updates released in September 1996 and June 1998 included a redesigned rounded rear end and new alloy wheel designs. The Series II introduced a supercharged L67 V6 rated at , positioned between naturally aspirated V6 and V8 options; HSV provided a high-performance V8 alternative.

Safety enhancements incorporated a passenger airbag as standard throughout the lineup. The Statesman came equipped with a ten-disc CD changer and featured a two-stage door remote unlocking system enabling selective door access. According to Used Car Safety Ratings, first-generation Statesmans (VQ–VS) offered average occupant protection.

In October 1996, HSV launched the HSV Grange as a sportier version of the Caprice. Manufactured at Elizabeth, South Australia with final assembly by HSV in Clayton, Victoria, it was available in 185i and 215i variants powered by stroked V8 engines of 5.0 and 5.7 litres respectively. Standard features included 17-inch alloy wheels, a ten-speaker audio system with ten-disc CD stacker, climate control, power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, leather upholstery, cruise control, fog lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, telescopic steering column adjustment, trip computer, sunroof, woodgrain interior trim, alarm/immobiliser; additionally, the 215i model featured a Hydratrak limited slip differential.

WH

Introduced in June 1999, the WH Statesman was derived from the VT Commodore platform but adopted a distinct model name once again. The range comprised the base Statesman, the limited edition Statesman International, and the top-tier Caprice. While sharing doors and front windscreen with the standard Commodore, the WH featured a lengthened wheelbase. The initial WH Series I (June 1999–October 2000) closely resembled the VT II Commodore, whereas Series II (October 2000–May 2003) incorporated design and mechanical enhancements aligned with the VX Commodore.

The powertrain options were consistent with those found in the Commodore lineup: a 3.8-litre V6 Ecotec, its supercharged version, and a newly introduced 5.7-litre Generation III V8 delivering . In Series II models, the naturally aspirated V6's output was boosted by to . Designed for both right- and left-hand drive markets, the WH was exported to Middle Eastern countries under the Chevrolet Caprice badge, with model updates paralleling those of Holden.

Handling improvements were achieved through wider track widths, an extended wheelbase, and four-channel ABS combined with traction control systems. The luggage compartment expanded to 541 litres. Notable features included fog lamps integrated with cornering lights, electrochromatic rearview mirrors that automatically dimmed to minimize glare, and dual-zone climate control as standard equipment throughout the range. The Caprice variant added rear roof-mounted climate controls, stereo controls for rear occupants equipped with dual headphone jacks, a rear fold-down table featuring storage compartments and cup holders, premium Howe leather upholstery, a high-end 260-watt 12-speaker DSP audio system, personalized driver memory settings linked to the ignition key, chrome-finished exterior door handles, heated side mirrors with an automatic dip feature on the passenger side to avoid curb damage, automatic headlights that activated in low-light conditions, and a chrome vertical bar grille—distinct from the Statesman's chrome matrix grille and absence of chrome door handles.

HSV offered special-order enhancements including an electric tilt/slide sunroof, VDO MS5000 satellite navigation system replacing the ashtray, HSV-branded alloy pedals, limited slip differential, rear deck spoiler, and two variants of 17-inch alloy wheels. Vehicles equipped by HSV bore individually numbered build plates for exclusivity.

The Caprice's rear air suspension featured self-levelling capabilities that improved load distribution and towing stability. Safety advancements encompassed side impact airbags protecting head and torso areas, pyrotechnic seat belt pretensioners integrated with automatic door unlocking mechanisms and engine/fuel pump shutdown upon activation, in addition to standard front airbags for driver and passenger. Newly designed electric wing mirrors included an auto-dip function when reversing to safeguard alloy wheels from curb contact.

Released in June 1999, the HSV Grange (WH), manufactured by HSV in Clayton, Victoria with VINs starting "6H8WHY", was based on the Statesman chassis. It was available with both supercharged V6 and V8 engines paired with HSV's "Prestige" suspension tuning that featured Monroe Sensatrac shock absorbers, front and rear anti-roll bars, and self-levelling rear suspension shared with the Caprice. Standard specifications comprised 18-inch ten-spoke alloy wheels, a 260-watt ten-speaker audio system with six-disc CD changer, climate-controlled air conditioning, eight-way power-adjustable front leather seats, cruise control, fog lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel equipped with audio controls, remote central locking, power-operated windows and mirrors including memory presets for driver seat and mirrors, electrochromatic rearview mirror, trip computer display, immobiliser system, limited slip rear differential, optional performance brake packages, larger front and rear sway bars plus an exclusive HSV body kit featuring an enlarged front bumper intake with stainless steel mesh grille bearing HSV emblem, flared side skirts, three-piece rear bumper incorporating a decklid spoiler, along with HSV badging throughout.

WK

Introduced in May 2003 and built upon the VY Commodore platform, the WK series featured a more angular design, incorporating headlights from the VY Calais and redesigned taillights separated by body panels. This design revision enhanced aerodynamic efficiency, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.30. The model received updates such as redesigned bumpers, new wheel covers, and a comprehensive interior revamp focusing on the dashboard and centre console. The powertrain options remained consistent with the predecessor, utilizing the Generation III V8 engine rated at for the Statesman and for the Caprice. Structural improvements strengthened the front floorpan and sills, resulting in a 70% reduction in lower limb injuries during offset frontal crash tests conducted at .

Upgraded features included standard rear parking sensors and an optional satellite navigation system for the Statesman, while the Caprice was equipped with a dual-screen DVD entertainment system catering to rear-seat passengers. The WH/WK Statesman models achieved a "significantly better than average" occupant protection score in Used Car Safety Ratings.

The HSV Grange (WK) was equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, along with a twelve-speaker Blaupunkt audio system delivering 430 watts through an amplifier and subwoofer. Additional amenities included dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery with eight-way powered seats, cruise control featuring speed alert functionality, memory settings for driver’s seat and mirrors, a DVD player accompanied by twin seven-inch rear LCD screens, rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, remote central locking, power-operated windows and mirrors, adjustable steering column, electrochromatic rearview mirror, trip computer, cargo net, and an immobiliser. Performance enhancements encompassed a limited slip rear differential, enlarged sway bars and brakes, as well as a distinctive HSV body kit comprising a front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, and deck lid spoiler.

WL

The WL series debuted in August 2004 on the VZ Commodore platform, introducing the all-new 3.6-litre Alloytec V6 engine to replace the WK's Ecotec unit. This engine delivered and torque. The Statesman’s optional V8 mirrored that of the WK Caprice model; however, the WL Caprice's V8 received an additional . Automatic transmissions varied by engine: V8 variants utilized a reinforced GM 4L65-E unit while V6 models adopted a new five-speed GM 5L40-E. Safety upgrades incorporated brake assist, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and LED tail lamps designed for quicker illumination to enhance rear visibility.

In 2005, GM began exporting the Statesman to China under the Buick Royaum nameplate through the SAIC-GM collaboration. Initially powered by the 3.6-litre Alloytec engine, it later offered a 2.8-litre LP1 engine option. Both engines were paired with five-speed automatic transmissions. Trim levels included 2.8 GL Deluxe, 2.8 GL Comfort, and 3.6 GS Deluxe—the latter renamed to 3.6 Luxury Sports in 2005 with a price point of (). Despite this range, sales were limited to 2,008 units in 2005 and increased to 3,631 units during 2006–07. Production ceased in early 2007 when it was succeeded by the VE Commodore-based WM/WN Caprice-derived Buick Park Avenue assembled by GM Shanghai.

Also in 2005, Holden commenced exports of the Statesman to South Korea under the Daewoo brand via GM Daewoo’s network, recording nearly 2,000 sales within that year. This variant shared its powertrain configuration with the Buick Royaum.

The WL series HSV Grange targeted luxury consumers with standard features such as 19-inch alloy wheels; a premium Blaupunkt audio system outputting 430 watts through twelve speakers and a six-stack CD changer; dual-zone climate control; Nappa leather seats with eight-way power adjustment plus memory functions; cruise control equipped with speed alert; fog lights; front and rear parking sensors; DVD player paired with twin seven-inch rear LCD screens including remote control; leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel; remote central locking; power windows; heated side mirrors with auto-dip on reverse; adjustable steering column; electrochromatic rearview mirror; tyre pressure monitoring sensors; trip computer; and an immobiliser. Performance-oriented components featured a limited slip differential at the rear axle, larger sway bars both front and rear, upgraded performance brakes, and an exclusive body kit comprising an aggressive front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, and deck lid spoiler.

WM

The third-generation WM was introduced alongside the VE Commodore on 16 July 2006 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. In a departure from previous launch strategies, the Statesman was released simultaneously with the Commodore to support export ambitions. Development of the WM entailed an investment of A$190 million by GM, in addition to $1.04 billion allocated to the VE Commodore platform.[9] The WM is built on Holden's GM Zeta platform, marking a shift away from sharing its underpinnings with an Opel sedan,[10] and it features distinct rear doors to set it apart from the Commodore.[11]

Similar to its predecessor, the WM was exported to the Middle East market under the Chevrolet Caprice name. In China, a related variant was manufactured as the Buick Park Avenue starting in 2007, primarily utilizing locally sourced components; production ended in 2012.

Holden resumed exports to South Korea in 2008 with the Daewoo Veritas brand after revealing a pre-production Daewoo L4X model in 2007.[12] The Veritas was equipped exclusively with a V6 engine and featured a modified rear floorpan to accommodate electrically adjustable rear seats with massage capabilities and an overhead LCD screen. In March 2009, GM Daewoo upgraded the Veritas by introducing a direct-injection variant of the 3.6-litre Alloytec engine, which enhanced output from to , increased torque, and improved fuel efficiency to comply with South Korea's KULEV emission regulations. This update also brought in a six-speed GM 6L50 automatic transmission featuring Active Select functionality.[13]

This upgraded powertrain was incorporated into Holden’s MY10 lineup launched in September 2009.[14] The direct-injected V6, marketed as Spark Ignition Direct Injection (SIDI), produced and torque.[15] Improvements in efficiency were achieved through direct fuel injection, enhanced coasting fuel cutout systems, a more efficient alternator and voltage regulator, reduced idle speed down to 550 rpm, and a turbine damper that minimized low-rpm vibrations allowing earlier gear shifts.[16] Production of the Veritas ceased in 2010 following GM’s decision to retire the Daewoo brand in South Korea.

In 2010, Holden retired the Statesman nameplate. To address this market gap, it lowered pricing on the V6 Caprice and adjusted its equipment levels to closely match those previously offered by the Statesman.[17] At the same time, "Series II" Caprice models were launched: one V6-only version replacing the Statesman’s pricing and features tier, and another V8-only version maintaining the higher-spec "Series I" trim.

From 2011 through 2017, a rebadged Holden Caprice was marketed in North America as the Chevrolet Caprice PPV (Police Patrol Vehicle).[18][19] This law enforcement vehicle utilized the interior and dashboard from the entry-level Commodore Omega and provided a heavy-duty alternative to the Chevrolet Impala for fleet operations.

WN

In 2013, Holden introduced the WN series, which was derived from the last Australian-produced VF Commodore. This iteration incorporated updated alloy wheels and enhanced dashboard electronics sourced from the Calais V (VF). Representing the pinnacle of Caprice advancements, it boasted an eight-inch touchscreen, keyless entry, and standard automatic parking assistance. The safety suite included a heads-up display, warnings for front and rear collisions, blind spot detection, and lane departure alerts.

The engine lineup comprised a V6 LPG option or a 6.0-litre L77 V8 engine, both delivering power through a six-speed 6L80E automatic transmission—these powertrains were carried over from Commodore variants. The 2015 WN Series II saw an upgrade to a 6.2-litre LS3 V8 producing ; however, this version did not feature the BiModal exhaust system.

HSV Grange

Beginning with the VS series, Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) enhanced the Statesman by fitting it with more powerful V8 engines and rebranding it as the HSV Grange, succeeding earlier HSV Statesman models such as the 5000i, SV90, and SV93. From the WM and WN series onwards, following the discontinuation of the Statesman, the Grange was based on the Caprice platform. The final WN Grange was equipped with a tuned variant of the 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine.

Sales

Australian Sales Figures
Model 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999
Statesman 1,836 2,125 1,350 3,991 4,461 4,409 3,857 3,806 4,222
Caprice 309 367 193 879 740 607 530 534 687
Model 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
Statesman 5,566 4,971 4,347 4,363 3,640 2,832 1,986 2,143 1,804 584
Caprice 804 547 611 1,061 30,000 741 1,090 2,611 1,641 1,455
Model 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Statesman 284 2
Caprice 1,715 1,892 1,460 1,113 1,218 1,324 954 551

References

Books

  • Bebbington, Terry (1998). 50 Years of Holden. Hornsby, New South Wales: Clockwork Media. ISBN 0-947216-59-6.
  • Davis, Tony; Wright, John (1994). Holden Commodore: 1978–1988 including HSV and Statesman WB. Blakehurst, New South Wales: Marque Publishing. ISBN 0-947079-44-0.
  • Jeeves, Kay (ed.) (July 2008). The Holden Heritage 14th Edition. Port Melbourne, Victoria: GM Holden. ISBN 978-0-646-49587-3.
  • Robinson, Peter (2006). AutoBiography: The inside story of Holden's all-new VE Commodore. Woolloomooloo, New South Wales: Focus Publishing. ISBN 1-921156-10-4.
  • Wright, John (1998). Heart of the Lion: The 50 Year History of Australia's Holden. Crows Nest, New South Wales: Allen & Unwin. ISBN 1-86448-744-5.

Magazines

  • Luck, Rob (September 1971). "Bold New Breed". Modern Motor. Rushcutters Bay, New South Wales: Modern Magazines (Holdings).
  • McCarthy, Mike; McKay, Peter; Newton, Bruce; Robinson, Peter (October 2006). "2006 Collector's Edition VE Commodore: The Full Story". Wheels.
  • Robinson, Peter (May 1980). "WB Statesman Twins". Wheels. Sydney, New South Wales: Murray Publishers.

External links

Official websites:

Unofficial websites:

  1. ↑ Luck (1971), p. 62.
  2. ↑ Wright (1998), p. 336.
  3. ↑ Wright (1998), p. 209.
  4. ↑ Bebbington (1998), p. 40.
  5. ↑ Bebbington (1998), p. 52.
  6. ↑ Robinson (1980), p. 25.
  7. ↑ Bebbington (1998), p. 56.
  8. ↑ Davis, Wright (1994), p. 10–11.
  9. ↑ McCarthy, McKay, Newton, Robinson (2006), p. 117
  10. ↑ Robinson (2006), p. 34–35
  11. ↑ McCarthy, McKay, Newton, Robinson (2006), p. 118
  12. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named First look: Veritas a veritable Statesman
  13. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  14. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  15. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  16. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  17. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  18. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
  19. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).
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