As part of the launch of its new GEN-F range, Australia’s leading performance car manufacturer, HSV, today released full specifications of its new Maloo models.
Available in two variants – Maloo and Maloo R8, each vehicle receives a significant exterior and interior make-over and a raft of new technologies.
The exterior styling make-over starts at the front end of the Maloo which is now distinguished by a new, twin-nostril grille and a deep fascia with updated Daytime Running Lamps that can now operate in unison with the headlamps.
Updated styling also extends to the wheels with all-new 20” cast flow-form alloys (8.5” at the front and 9.5” at the rear) with a silver finish. Wrapping the wheels are Continental 5P tyres with higher walls and greater width that combine to deliver improvements in grip and ride comfort.
At the rear, a new “diffuser” rear fascia – now signature across the GEN-F range – houses the bold, quad exhaust outlets. A slim-line, soft tonneau cover with concealed latchings delivers flexibility and load carrying versatility.
From a powertrain perspective, the new Maloo carries over the 6.2L LS3 Generation IV V8 from the E-Series model which generates 317 kilowatts of power and 550 Newton-metres of torque. The powertrain is matched to a TR6060 Tremec 6-speed manual gearbox with the 6L80E 6-speed automatic transmission with Active Select available as an option.
Located conveniently behind the gear shifter, the Driver Preference Dial adjusts the Maloo’s ESC, Traction Control, Launch Control (manual transmission) and Electric Power Steering according to three distinct pre-set modes – Touring, Sport and Performance. In doing so, the vehicle’s handling characteristics instantly change.
The Maloo R8 features a long list of additional content over and above the already impressive standard fare on the Maloo.
Power output increases to 325kW thanks to the fitment of a Hi-flow intermediate exhaust system, while the Bi-Modal muffler delivers a throatier engine note.
The driver environment benefits from the inclusion of four additional safety and convenience technologies – Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Head Up Display and Rain Sensing Wipers, while comfort gets a boost with the fitment of HSV Performance Seats wrapped in Onyx leather trim with 4-way electric adjustment of the driver seat.
HSV’s Enhanced Driver Interface, with a larger screen, updated graphics and improved display resolution, also comes standard on the Maloo R8.
The new Maloo R8 also features a newly styled Remote Locking Hard Tonneau and Performance Sail Plane. A 20” cast-flow-form alloy wheel with a machined face and gloss black accents combine with unique HSV side-skirts to deliver impressive street appeal.
Unique styling cues are provided in the form of a 20” SV Performance forged wheel in Satin Graphite and unique “pitch black” accents on the fender vents and mirror scalps. New “R8 SV” and “340” badges adorn the tail-gate.
“We’re confident our customers will really embrace the new features, styling and technologies available on the GEN-F Maloo”, said HSV’s Managing Director, Phil Harding. “While the vehicle still delivers all the versatility and flexibility our customers have come to expect, the level of power, performance and creature comforts in our new GEN-F models make these easily the best performance utes we’ve ever offered”, said Harding.