HSV ROLLS OUT LS3 LIMITED EDITIONS

This naturally-aspirated 340kW V8, unavailable in an HSV since the launch of the supercharged 400kW LSA V8 last October, is making a return before upcoming changes in emissions standards make it redundant.

After November, these new standards mean that new cars cannot be fitted with the LS3 in its 340kW form. However, the detuned 304kW version, as found in the Commodore SS, does meet the emissions cap, so will continue production right through to the end of Holden's local manufacturing operations in 2017.

The final 650 LS3-engined HSVs will be spread across a series of four special editions: ClubSport R8 SV Black - 350 units; Maloo R8 SV Black - 100 units; ClubSport R8 Track Edition - 150 units; and Grange SV - 50 units. In addition to this local allocation, a handful of each limited edition is going to New Zealand.

SV Black
Both the $65,990* ClubSport R8 and $62,990* Maloo R8 SV Black specials are cheaper than the current LSA-engined equivalents, to the tune of around $10,000 and $7,000, respectively. This is partly down to the lower kW engine, but also for the fact that the SV specials do not use HSV's bespoke seats, instead featuring the same front buckets as the SS/SV6 Commodore.

Grange SV
Grange SV is unchanged at $86,990*, with this special marking the "end of the line" for HSV's luxury limousine; no further Grange production is planned once this limited-edition sells out.

All SV models gain identifying features like bodyside striping, 20-inch black wheels, blackout treatment on the window surrounds, grille, vents, mirror caps and other areas, black badging, interior I.D. plates, branded sill plates and numbered build plaques.

Clubsport R8 Track Edition

The $68,990* ClubSport R8 Track Edition gets stiffer suspension, the wheels and six-piston AP Racing brake calipers from the GTS, plus a number of options from the other models as standard.

"With all limited edition models, our focus has been on building vehicles that offer outstanding levels of content, exclusivity and value," said HSV's Managing Director, Tim Jackson.

"We're confident we've delivered on all counts and that our fan base will be eager to capitalise on this last opportunity to buy an LS3-powered HSV, especially at these prices."

Production of the SV Black ClubSport R8 and Maloo R8 is underway now, with the ClubSport R8 Track Edition and Grange SV to be built from September. See your HSV dealer for further details.

*all pricing excludes ORCs.

HSV Clubsport R8 SV Black features

340kW 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine

6-speed manual transmission (auto optional)

Black AP Racing 4-piston calipers

20-inch satin black alloy wheels

Shadow-Chrome exhaust tips

Black accents on grille, lower air intake, driving light bezels, front guard vents and mirror caps

Black door mouldings

Black lower body striping

Black badging

Lo-line satin graphite rear spoiler