One of the 1,100 horsepower station wagons is what everyone wants.
Some Holden-badged cars have landed in the USA, even though they were never sold. These include the Pontiac GTO’s last model, the Pontiac G8, and the Chevrolet SS that is largely unknown. We were shocked when GM announced it would be ending the Australian marque. This was the end of a long and rich history.
Holden may be gone but that doesn’t mean it is forgotten. The brand is still loved by the aftermarket community in its home market. Check out this VE Commodore Sportwagon, a bagged and boosted version.
Before 2020, the brand’s demise, the VE was the second-to-last Australian-designed Commodore. Glenn Tronic’s Sportwagon, one of few SS V models with a manual transmission, is a rare model. These wagons were available for sale with a 6.0-liter V8 engine that produced 362 horsepower (270kilowatts) as well as 391 pound-feet (391 Newton-meters). This was the Pontiac G8 wagon North America never received.
Glenn purchased the car in its stock form but wanted more from the V8. Glenn started out with an engine that was naturally aspirated by modifying the internals. The lure of more horsepower was too appealing to resist and he fitted a large turbo. The car’s owner claims that the turbo boost makes this Commodore Sportwagon 1,129 horsepower (842 kilowatts). Glenn claims that his turbo wagon is reliable, despite the power.
Readers from Down Under may notice the HDT (Holden Dealer Team), decals and details on the wagon. Glenn’s HDT parts give the wagon a retro feel, rather than following the HSV (Holden Special Vehicles), route. The blinds on the rear windows look as Australian as it gets.
Glenn installed an air suspension system in addition to the engine modifications. While he is aware of the differences in opinion among aftermarket professionals, he says that this unique build is also due to the air suspension system. Although the compressor takes up some space in the cargo area there’s still plenty of room for practicality.