Holden HSV Maloo R8 Ute: 2007 Sydney Show

The hottest “El-Camino” in the world is Australian and it’s made by Holden Special Vehicles (HSV). Officially unveiled at the Sydney Show today, the Maloo (an aboriginal word for thunder or storm) gets the same 412 Hp LS2 V8 as the Clubsport R8 with power being driven to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox or optionally, an automatic transmission. HSV’s Chief Engineer John Clark was pretty excited about his company’s latest offering characterizing the Maloo R8 as a “coupe with a damn big boot!”. Can you blame him? -Continued after the jump

The Maloo R8 is already on sale at HSV Dealerships across Australia with prices starting from $59,990 AUD or $53,940 USD. Options include automatic transmission for an extra $2,000 AUD or $ 1,800 USD and a ‘performance pack’ which consists of 20-inch wheels and GTS inspired performance seats. This pack will retail in Australia for an additional $3,750 AUD or $3,360 USD.

Unique HSV Maloo R8 features:

• Distinct sheet moulded compound (SMC) rear tailgate,
• 307kW / 412 Hp LS2 V8 engine,
• AP Racing four piston brake package,
• Group A Walkinshaw inspired side skirt,
• New glore suede HSV ‘performance’ seats,
• Remote release hard tonneau with release button on main key,
• Reverse parking sensors and
• A ‘performance pack’ option consisting of full leather ‘performance’ seats and 20 inch wheels.