variant among its model range, the VS Series II Ute remained in production after the VS sedan and wagon were replaced by the new models. In June 1998 an upgraded version of the Utility, the Series III, was released, which was unique in the Commodore's history as it was limited to just a single variant. The new model Ute was identified by Series III badges and clear side blinker repeater lights, and featured a number of interior upgrades. The biggest change came in the way of the engine, as the Series II's 165kW V8 was replaced by the new 179kW version from the VT, which featured sequential fuel injection. Along with these changes saw the introduction of the SS V8, the first time this model option was available in a Commodore utility. Externally, the SS was identified by an integrated body kit comprising a new front bumper and side skirts, polished alloy rear sports bar, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps and SS decals. The interior featured a leather wrapped sports steering wheel, hand brake and gearshift knob, and the seats had SS identification. Power windows and air-conditioning was standard, as were the Getrag 5-speed manual transmission, limited-slip differential, sports suspension and ABS brakes. The Series III Ute remained in production until the December 2000 release of the new Holden Ute (VU). Exports Between 1995 and 1997 the VS was also sold in small numbers to Malaysia and Singapore as the Opel Calais. Prior to the VS, the Opel-badged models were sold in VR specification from 1994. As of December 1994, Holden were selling approximately 40 per month of the VR series Opel Calais. Both the VR and VS versions were fitted with the Opel-sourced 2.6-litre C26NE inline-six engine and four-speed 4L30-E automatic. These vehicles initially featured the front-end of the VR Statesman until a circa 1997 facelift progressed to the front-end design of the VS Caprice. The final batch of Singapore-bound Opel Calais models were produced in August 1997 and featured the newer 2.5-litre X25XE V6 engine with the 4L30-E automatic transmission. However, this order was cancelled, likely due to the imminent Asian financial crisis. As the vehicles were not compliant for sale in Australia, they were instead exported to New Zealand and retailed through Ebbett Waikato dealerships, complied as 1998 models, and rebranded as the Holden Commodore Royale. HSV range Holden's performance vehicle partner Holden Special Vehicles produced the